Glenwood’s Mallie M. Ireland Children’s Center on the Avondale Campus provides Applied Behavior Analysis and other intensive therapy services. ABA is an evidence-based therapy that focuses on the principles and techniques of learning theory to help improve social behavior. ABA therapy helps to develop new skills, shape, and refine previously learned skills, and decrease socially significant problem behaviors. Speech and occupational therapy are also integrated into the daily programs for the children.
Services Provided
Assessments – Identify skills and behaviors to target
Applied behavior analysis relies on individualized assessment to guide tailored treatment, specific to an individual and their needs. It is important to use tools that capture both sides (strengths as well as weaknesses). A variety of skill assessments may be conducted to determine what should be targeted for your child. These will include interviews with caregivers, observations of the child, and direct testing of skills. Functional behavior assessments will be conducted in similar ways to discover the reasons that your child may engage in problematic behavior.
Verbal Behavior Skills – Increasing functional language skills
The Verbal Behavior approach is used to develop communication skills, including receptive and expressive language (requesting, labeling, vocal imitation, and conversational skills). We also work on gross and fine motor imitation, writing, and listening (following instructions) skills. These may be taught using methods of Discrete Trial Training (DTT) or naturalistic teaching strategies during play.
Problem Behavior Reduction – Identifying and reducing problematic behaviors
Individuals with ASD often exhibit behaviors that are considered problematic both for themselves and for those around them. The staff at Glenwood are well trained and equipped to address a wide variety of problematic behaviors. A functional behavior assessment is conducted upon admission, which helps determine the course of treatment needed to address and replace problem behaviors.
Social Skills – Improving social understanding and communication
Children enrolled in the program have typically encountered barriers preventing them from participating in typical school environments. Skills targeted by the program include group skills (e.g. attending to a group instructor, hand-raising, sitting with a group), social skills (e.g. initiating social interactions, greetings, and social play), and other skill deficits identified through a behavioral assessment.
Toilet Training – Most efficient and evidence based toilet training program
Many children with autism spectrum disorder struggle with basic functional skills including toileting. We conduct intensive toilet training sessions designed to best fit the needs of your child. These methods use a combination of positive reinforcement for successful toileting trips and correction for accidents.
Functional Living Skills – Teaching necessary life skills
One of the most important aspects of behavior therapy is training our clients to be more functionally independent. These skills include dressing, oral hygiene, bathing, cleaning, and other necessary skills for living a more independent life. We conduct behavior interviews with the parents to determine the skills of highest priority.
Caregiver Training – Generalizing skills to all settings
Caregiver training is an essential component of effective ABA intervention. Lasting behavior change comes when all caregivers successfully implement a function-based ABA plan competently and consistently. That’s why Glenwood places an emphasis on caregiver involvement, training, and participation in regularly scheduled training sessions. As part of all evidence-based interventions, caregiver support is given throughout the entire process.
Kameron’s Story
Kameron arrived at Glenwood unable to speak or communicate. He would collapse to the floor in frustration. With the help of his Glenwood therapy team, his skills improved, and within a year he was able to make full sentences using pictures. Finally, he began using his own voice, a joyous gift for him and his family, allowing him to deepen his family relationships.
Eligibility and Cost
Glenwood’s Children’s Center is for children ages 2 to 6 with a primary diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder. Glenwood accepts many types of insurance as well as private pay. We will be happy to verify the coverage on your policy.
Next Steps
Before starting therapy, we will conduct a comprehensive evaluation of your child’s skills and deficits. We then provide a written report, including formal recommendations. Our Board-Certified Behavior Analysts work with you to create an individualized treatment plan focusing on the areas listed below. Your child’s individualized ABA therapy is then delivered for a prescribed number of hours per week in a one-on-one format by Registered Behavior Technicians. For more information and to get started with Children’s Center services please contact our Intake Coordinator.
Telephone: (205) 939-1088
E-mail: intake@glenwood.org
Location
Children’s Center Avondale
3721 6th Avenue South
Birmingham, AL 35222
For more information, please contact:
Telephone: (205) 939-1088
Email: intake@glenwood.org