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Early Intensive Behavioral Intervention in Comstock, MI
Early Intensive Behavioral Intervention is a specific subset of Applied Behavioral Analysis therapy focused on early intervention for autism. Using EIBI during the onset of behavior intervention services can increase the success rate of therapy services. This type of program works best with children under five years old, but ideally under age two. An intensive program aims to expose the child to many sessions upfront and then reduce the number of sessions to maintain the gains that have been made.
What Is the EIBI Process?
Once the behavior intervention services associated with EIBI begin, the child receives between 20 and 40 hours of individualized sessions per week with a therapist trained in this ABA method. Parents, guardians, and other caregivers are also involved in the therapy to continue with consistent methods at home. At its core, the program consists of four primary areas of intervention.
1. Individual sessions. Each therapy session involves a one-to-one ratio of the therapist to child for the most consistent and structured process.
2. Many therapy hours per week. One of the reasons the word intensive is included in EIBI is because the child receives 20 to 40 hours of training per week. The sessions take place either at home or in a school setting and continue for at least one year, but up to four years.
3. Discrete trial training. DTT is an ABA method that is an essential part of early intensive behavioral intervention. This method incorporates simple, structured directions and associated responses according to whether the child responds correctly. The response is positive for a correct answer and neutral for an incorrect one, after which the correct response is modeled.
4. Professional program design. Although it may be common sense, this type of program needs to be designed by a professional with experience who monitors and oversees the process throughout the service time. Attempting this type of therapy without experience or oversight leads to a less positive outcome.
What Behaviors Does EIBI Treat?
EIBI is used during ABA therapy sessions, most frequently for young children on the autism spectrum. Helping the child function well, communicate better, and develop a stronger skillset are all treatment plans’ goals. Specifically, behaviors such as self-harm, aggression toward caregivers or peers, and outbursts or tantrums can all be reduced through the proper use of EIBI therapy.
Although communication skills are a vital focus, learning self-help skills and socialization are also keys to easier integration into school and social settings.
Learn More About EIBI Therapy
Many innovative therapy solutions exist for young children who need help developing communication, socialization, and other foundational skills. To learn more about an Early Intensive Behavioral Intervention program and its role in ABA therapy, contact Applied Behavioral Science Institution for additional information.
