Applied Behaviour Analysis- ABA
ABA is an evidence-based approach to teaching meaningful skills and addressing behaviours that get in the way of learning and connection. It applies the science of behaviour change to build communication, independence, social abilities, and daily living skills. Modern ABA is collaborative and compassionate. Goals are tailored to each child, strategies are ethical and trauma-informed, progress is carefully measured, and new skills are practised across home, school, and community settings to ensure they become part of everyday life.
The primary organization responsible for credentialing ABA professionals is the Behavior Analyst Certification Board (BACB). The BACB sets the international standards for education, ethics, and examination.
Additionally, some practitioners may hold credentials from the Qualified Applied Behavior Analysis Credentialing Board (QABA).
It is highly advisable to seek ABA services only with credentialed practitioners.
Board Certified Behaviour Analyst -
(BCBA)
A BCBA is a highly trained professional therapist who specialises in Applied Behaviour Analysis. They design, supervise, and adjust your child's ABA program to help them learn new skills and reach their full potential.
To become a BCBA, one must:
Have at least a Master's degree (in Psychology or related field)
Complete 1,500 - 2,000 hours of supervised practice
Pass a rigorous international exam
Get certified by the Behavior Analyst Certification Board (BACB)
Complete ongoing education every year to maintain certification
Frequently asked questions
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We know every child is different, and that's exactly how we approach therapy, by truly getting to know your child first.
We start by learning what makes your child unique: their interests, their strengths, what motivates them, and where they might need extra support. We do this through conversations with you (because you know your child best), observing your child in their natural environment, and using specialized assessments designed for their age and needs.
From there, we create a personalized Behaviour Support Plan tailored specifically for your child. This is centered around your child’s interests, skills they’re ready to develop, and positive strategies for any challenges they may have.
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ABA focuses heavily on foundational skills such as communication, social skills, and daily living skills. This helps those with Autism connect with others in more effective ways and accelerates their path to independence.
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Yes. While ABA is most commonly associated with autism, it's effective for children with ADHD, developmental delays, Down syndrome, learning difficulties, and behavioural challenges, even without a formal diagnosis.
ABA principles can help any child learn new skills, improve communication, and manage behaviours that interfere with learning and daily life.
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ABA can be beneficial at any age, but early intervention (before age 5) tends to yield the best outcomes.
That said, older children, teens, and even adults can benefit from ABA for developing specific skills or addressing particular behaviours. It's never too late to start if ABA is the right fit.
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We utilize Functional Communication Training (FCT) to determine the underlying purpose of challenging behaviours, such as hitting or screaming. By identifying the purpose behind these actions, we can systematically reinforce a socially appropriate replacement behaviour that serves the same function, effectively reducing frustration and promoting independent communication.
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We believe in progress you can celebrate. Every journey begins with a comprehensive assessment to understand your child's current strengths and where they're ready to grow. These initial observations, what we call baselines, help us develop clear, meaningful goals for their Behavior Support Plan that reflect what matters most to your family.
As your child learns, we document their progress through careful daily data collection, translating this information into easy-to-read visual charts that show exactly how they're advancing. This real-time feedback allows your BCBA to make responsive, evidence-based adjustments to keep therapy effective and your child engaged.
Every few months, we take a broader view using standardized assessment tools like the VB-MAPP or Vineland-3. This helps us ensure the skills developing in therapy sessions are genuinely transferring to the places that matter most: your home, school, and community.
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We work alongside your child's caregivers, teachers, and therapists to create consistency in the approaches that help them thrive.
When a child sees the same support at home, school, and therapy, they learn to use their new skills everywhere—not just with us.
This focus on 'real-world' success is what makes it possible to reach the ultimate goal: a smooth transition into greater independence beyond ABA.
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Caregivers are integral members of the care team, actively involved in establishing goals and ensuring that every aspect of the support plan is clearly outlined and understood before therapy commences.
Our goal is to empower parents with the skills and understanding to continue your child's progress beyond therapy sessions. We'll work alongside you to build confidence in using these strategies naturally in your daily routine.
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ABA focuses on teaching new behaviours and skills using reinforcement and behavioural principles, addressing communication, social skills, daily living, and challenging behaviours in an integrated way.
Speech therapy specialises in language mechanics and communication, whilst occupational therapy focuses on sensory processing, motor skills, and self-care.
ABA often complements these therapies, and many children benefit from a combination of services.
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Look for providers who are Board Certified Behaviour Analysts (BCBAs), which is the international gold standard credential. BCBAs have completed graduate-level education, supervised fieldwork, and passed a rigorous exam.
You can verify credentials on the Behaviour Analyst Certification Board (BACB) registry. Also ask about their experience, approach to therapy, and whether they follow ethical, trauma-informed practices.
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ABA therapy can be scheduled around school, and many providers work collaboratively with schools to ensure consistency. Some families do therapy before or after school hours, whilst others reduce school hours temporarily during intensive therapy phases.
The goal is often to help your child develop skills that will support their success in school settings.
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ABA therapy is not typically covered by standard private health insurance in Singapore.
However, families may access support through the Early Intervention Programme for Infants and Children (EIPIC) centres, which provide subsidised services for children with developmental needs. Some employers offer flexible benefits that can be used for therapy costs.
Additionally, the SG Enable Caregiver Training Grant and other disability support schemes may help offset costs.
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Private ABA therapy in Singapore typically ranges from SGD $120 to $250 per hour, depending on the provider's qualifications and whether services are provided by a Board Certified Behaviour Analyst (BCBA) or a trained therapist under supervision. Intensive programmes can cost between SGD $3,000 to $8,000+ per month. Some providers offer packages or sliding scale fees.