Behavior analysts work with children, families, parents, pets, groups, and individuals. From eating behavior, social behavior (how to talk to someone of the opposite sex, how to interact with peers), weight loss, hygiene, morning and evening routines, for individuals with developmental delays and other disabilities preparing to live on their own, and much more!
An individual does not need to have a diagnosis to seek a behavior analyst. Most common diagnoses that are referred to behavior therapy are individuals with autism, ADD, ADHD, down syndrome, intellectual disabilities, developmental delay, PDD-NOS. But any individual or family facing challenging behaviors can seek an initial assessment by a behavior analyst to find out what changes the behavior analyst recommends and the behavior plan that will be put in place.
Behavior therapy decreases behaviors that interfere with an individual's ability to access their environment. individuals are not learning because they are tantruming, crying, repetitively pacing, etc. The therapy sessions can be twice a week or 5 days a week, depending on the severity of the behaviors.
The goal of parent training is to teach parents how to manage behaviors in their homes and teach replacement skills. Parents will learn basic principles of reinforcement, motivation, and more! The parent training sessions can be done with only 1 parent, with 1 couple, or a group of parents.
Applied Behavior Analysis, the science I've studied and bring (apply) to each family / school / group, can be used to teach children new skills. Children who do not learn age-appropriate skills to access their environment successfully may need formal training to do so.
Behavior management is invaluable in schools. Supporting teachers, administrators, and other school personnel on basic behavior management strategies, motivating students, and teaching techniques.