ABA Therapy & Behaviour Support in Halifax

A Board Certified Behaviour Analyst assesses why a behaviour is happening — what it achieves and what conditions make it necessary — then designs a plan that teaches a replacement skill and changes those conditions. Most of the work is with the adults around the person, because they are the ones present for the hours that matter.

No. It is most associated with autism, but behaviour support applies to intellectual and developmental disabilities, acquired brain injury, dual diagnoses and adults in supported living. Our BCBA has worked with people from age three to over sixty.

Much of that criticism is deserved by historical practice — compliance-driven programs aimed at making autistic children indistinguishable from their peers, sometimes using aversive methods. We do not practise that way. Goals come from the person and their family; assent is respected, including a refusal communicated without words; stimming is not a target; and nothing a person needs is ever withheld to obtain compliance. Our full position is on the neurodiversity-affirming therapy page, and we would rather you challenge us on it than assume.

An assessment and plan is usually a few sessions across the settings where the behaviour happens. After that it depends on the goals — some families need a short block and periodic reviews, others want ongoing support as needs change. We will always tell you what we think is enough.

Yes, with your consent and the setting's agreement. Behaviour that only improves at home has not improved. See school & daycare consultation and supports at daycare.

Frequently, and it is one of the main reasons to come here rather than to two separate practices. Sensory needs and behaviour are often the same problem seen from two angles, and one coordinated plan works considerably better than two parallel ones.