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ABA Therapy

Evidence-Based Approaches for Overcoming Behavioral Challenges in Children

Kredo Health TeamAugust 25, 20267 min read

Challenging behaviors are often a form of communication. Learn how evidence-based behavioral therapy helps children develop the skills to express themselves, regulate emotions, and build positive habits.

When a child melts down at the grocery store, refuses to transition between activities, or engages in self-injurious behavior, parents often feel helpless — and exhausted. What's important to understand is that these behaviors almost always serve a purpose. Children who lack the language or emotional regulation skills to communicate their needs will find other ways to get their message across.

Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) is the most extensively researched and validated approach to understanding and changing behavior in children with autism and other developmental challenges. Rather than simply trying to stop unwanted behaviors, ABA focuses on understanding why behaviors occur and teaching more effective alternatives.

A qualified Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) begins by conducting a thorough assessment to identify the function of a child's behavior — whether it's to gain attention, escape a demand, access something they want, or regulate sensory input. This functional understanding is the foundation of an effective treatment plan.

ABA therapy uses positive reinforcement to build new skills and reduce behaviors that interfere with learning and daily life. This might include teaching a child to use words or pictures to request a break instead of throwing materials, or building the tolerance for transitions through gradual, supported practice.

Modern ABA is naturalistic, play-based, and child-led. Gone are the days of rigid, drill-based therapy at a table. Today's ABA meets children where they are — on the floor, in the community, at school — and focuses on building skills that generalize across settings and relationships.

Parent involvement is a cornerstone of effective ABA. At Kredo Health, we provide robust parent training so families understand the principles behind the therapy and can implement strategies consistently at home. When parents and therapists work as a team, children make faster, more lasting progress.

If your child's behavior is affecting their ability to learn, connect with others, or participate in family life, a behavioral evaluation can provide clarity and a path forward. Our team is here to help you understand your child's behavior — and to give them the tools to thrive.

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Insurance Participation

Occupational Therapy

Medicaid, CMS, United, Cigna, Tricare, AMbetter, Allegiance, Aetna

Speech Therapy

Medicaid, CMS, United, Cigna, Tricare, AMbetter, Aetna

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Applied Behavior Analysis

United, Cigna, Aetna, Blue Cross Blue Shield, Oscar

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Insurance participation, benefits, authorizations, eligibility, and financial responsibility vary by plan and individual policy. Coverage determinations are made by the insurance carrier. Families are responsible for verifying benefits directly with their insurance company.

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