What is Applied Behaviour Analysis?
Applied Behaviour Analysis (ABA) is an evidence-based method of analysis and teaching that can be used in a variety of settings with learners of various skill levels. The goal of ABA is to establish and enhance socially important behaviours and decrease problematic behaviours. ABA utilizes observation and measurement of behaviours in the natural environment to establish behaviour change and individualize teaching methods based on principles of learning theory.
Ontario Autism Program (OAP)
The vision of the OAP is to give children and youth with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) access to the timely and effective services they need to achieve their goals at home, at school, in the community, and as they transition into adulthood. The OAP provides all families of children and youth with ASD with flexible, family-centred services based on each child’s unique needs.
Our program is funded by the Ministry of Children and Youth to provide goal-specific services to children, youth, family members and caregivers using a mediator model program in either a 1:1 or group format.
Using an ABA-based approach, OAP behaviour services focus on addressing the needs of children and youth with an Autism Spectrum Disorder in the following key developmental areas:
- Cognitive Functions
- School Readiness
- Personal Responsibility/Adaptive
- Play and Leisure
- Challenging Behaviour
Who do we serve?
Children and youth of age 0-17 (up to their 18th birthday) are eligible for services if they have a confirmation of an ASD diagnosis from a qualified professional. Diagnoses may be made by family physicians, pediatricians, psychiatrists and psychological associates.
Referrals may be made by:
- Family Physician
- Developmental Pediatrician
- Psychological Associate
- Speech-Language Pathologist
- Occupational Therapist
- Social Worker
Referrals to the OAP can be made by calling ErinoakKids at 1-877-374-6625, then Press 1. For more information on eligibility and services, go to http://www.erinoakkids.ca. This service is funded by the Ministry of Children and Youth Services and operates in partnership with Kerry’s Place Autism Services and ErinoakKids. For more information regarding OAP services and guidelines, please visit the Ministry of Children and Youth Services website.
The new Independent Clinical Review (ICR) process for the Ontario Autism Program (OAP) is now available. The ICR offers families and their children the opportunity to have key components of their OAP Behaviour Plan reviewed by a team of independent Clinical Reviewers.
Le nouveau processus d’examen clinique indépendant (ECI) du Programme ontarien de services en matière d’autisme (POSA) est maintenant disponible.
L’ECI offre aux familles et à leurs enfants la possibilité de faire examiner les principaux éléments du plan comportemental du POSA par une équipe d’examinateurs cliniques indépendants.