Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) is the science of behavior and learning which is used to create meaningful change to individuals.  ABA is often used to help neurodivergent people including those with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and other developmental disabilities learn a variety of skills including behavioral needs, communication, social skills, and adaptive skills. 

ABA in a nutshell is a way to help people learn the skills they need based on their strengths and desires. 

In short, assent is when a minor consents to a treatment. Joyful Behavior prioritizes assent in treatment to ensure compassionate care is being delivered. 

"Treatment consists of progressively teaching communication, toleration, and contextually appropriate behaviors (CABs). Common CABs include relinquishing favorite items, transitioning to a workspace, completing academic work, playing independently, playing according to the rules of a game, completing chores, or completing self-care tasks.

Repeated practice is essential to building these skills, as is reinforcement on an unpredictable and intermittent schedule.

The overall goal of treatment is to develop trusting relationships between children and caregivers and to teach children how to be effective despite ambiguity, unpredictability, and disappointments of everyday life." 

You can learn more by clicking HERE!

FTF Behavioral Consulting (2023). https://ftfbc.com/pfa-sbt/

Joyful Behavior Analytic Services currently provides services in-home for Wicomico County.

Cities Include:

• Salisbury, MD

• Delmar, MD

• Pittsville, MD

• And other neighboring cites. Contact us for more!

We also provide Telehealth* services to all other counties!

*Restrictions may apply *

Joyful accepts Medicaid and private pay. For all other insurances, clients are responsible for contacting their insurance companies to inquire about out-of-network reimbursements. 

***We are working on becoming in-network with insurance companies so if this is not an option, please fill out THIS FORM so you can be contacted once we are in-network with your insurance***

In order for a learner to receive ABA services in Maryland, he/she must be diagnosed with an Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) by a qualified health care professional and have a referral for ABA.

Joyful provides ABA therapy in a fun and naturalistic way, otherwise known as Naturalistic Environment Training (NET). We strongly believe that play-based learning is the best kind of learning.  Assent is of top priority and our team is trained in obtaining it!

These models are primarily differentiated by the intensity of ABA an individual needs. A focused model typically consists of weekly hours of 25 or less and can address 1-2 areas of need (e.g., social, adaptive, or communication). A comprehensive model consists of 25-40 hours and will cover all areas of need. All recommendations are made by your trained Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) and determined following an assessment of the client. 

Joyful strongly believes in the power of Team Work! A strong team makes for a strong learning environment where your loved one can thrive in their home and community setting.  Our job is to provide you with the tools you need to help make you or your loved one is making meaningful changes.

The Registered Behavior Technician® (RBT®) is a paraprofessional certification in behavior analysis. RBTs assist in delivering behavior analysis services and practice under the direction and close supervision of an RBT Supervisor and/or an RBT Requirements Coordinator, who are responsible for all work RBTs perform.