Frequently Used Terms and Abbreviations
ABA Children's Services
Applied Behavioral Analysis Children's Services
This program that provides intensive treatment to children on the autism spectrum utilizing the science of ABA. CADD ABA Children's Services is funded through BHRS.
IBHS
Intensive Behavioral Health Services
These services are often called "wrap-around" services because they "wrap" around the child's existing services. Wrap-around itself is a model and not a program or service in and of itself. IBHS is a funded through Medical Assistance, providing trained professional support for children under the age of 21 in PA. It is a service aimed at reducing and/or replacing significant problem behaviors with positive and socially appropriate behaviors.
ABA
Applied Behavioral Analysis is a discipline devoted to the understanding and improvement of human behavior. ABA provides structured programming that provides positive reinforcement to increase appropriate behaviors. Data is collected and analyzed by a behavioral specialist. This methodology can benefit children of any age, beginning around two years of age. It is the only scientifically proven treatment for persons with ASD.
BA
Behavioral Analyst is a clinician that is a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA). The BA works with the Behavioral Consultant (BC) to develop a treatment plan for the child. The plan will recommend any number of interventions that are based on intensive behavioral modification, acquiring age appropriate skills, developing positive relationships through social skill development and more. The BA consults with the treatment team and does not work one-on-one with the child.
BC
Behavioral Consultant is a master's level clinician who works with a family and a BA to develop a treatment plan for the child. The BC consults with parents and does not work one-on-one with the child. They visit the home, observe classrooms, daycares or community settings, and attend psychological evaluations and team meetings. A typical prescription is anywhere from 6-12 hours per month.
BT
Behavioral Technician is a bachelor's level (or associate's level in cases where the individual has 3 years of direct experience with children) clinician who carries out the interventions recommended in the treatment plan written by the BC and BA. They work one-on-one with the child in the family home, community or school. A typical prescription is anywhere from 5-25 hours, depending on medical necessity for the individual child.
ISPT
Interagency Service Planning Team is the team consisting of parents, the BHRS (Behavioral Health Rehabilitation Services) or "wraparound provider," occupational therapist (OT), speech/language therapist (SLT), teachers, community contacts and many others involved in the treatment of the child. ISPT meetings are held quarterly to gather the team together for input and treatment planning.