Points To Note Mental Health Counseling And Applied Behavior Analysis

By Roger Martin


Mental disorders have become a leading source of stresses within families especially in cases whereby one of the family member is affected. In situations such as a family having an autistic child, finding corrective treatment can be daunting. However, the situation can be rectified by taking part in Mental Health Counseling and Applied Behavior Analysis for both the toddler and parents.

It is common to find cases where parents may lack the knowledge of whether their toddler is showing signs of autism or how to take care of one who has this condition. Going through therapy and allowing your child to have the behavior analysis carried out will go a long way in helping the whole family to cope with the situation and give the child the opportunity to develop properly.

Psychotherapy is often characterized by people going to a complete stranger, pouring their hearts out while the person takes notes of what is being said. However, this practice has been known to help both children in this condition and their parents to overcome the pressures of life. Applied behavioral analysis which is done with the intention of changing targeted behaviors over a period of time is also included in the wellbeing of an autistic child.

Applied behavior analysis works by use of discrete trials. This involves asking the child to demonstrate certain characters or prompting the child to carry out an activity. In this case, a good response to the command receives an award which is something the toddler will love such as a toy or candy. No response or lack of adherence to the command or display of a negative traits does not get a reward. This generates a trend of improvement in good traits.

It is important for parents to note that psychotherapy and applied behavioral analysis have almost similar benefits for children with autism and themselves. One of the benefits is that it teaches social skills. Autism kids will be able to learn new techniques on how to get along with the people around them which in the end drives away self-pity. It also allows parents to learn new care methods that they can use on their children to boost their self-esteem.

Parents are also counseled on how to allow toddlers with autism to be independent and learn how to help themselves out in case their guardians are away. Independent living is advocated for autistic individuals as it allows them to know how to handle themselves on their own. Things such as general hygiene, feeding, self-care and handling activities on their own is encouraged so as to help them feel important and independent.

One of the question that arises is who provides these kind of treatment to autistic kids. There are some specifications that the specialist of your choice should have before you can sought their services. The individual should have earned a higher level of learning in psychology and behavioral analysis, be a licensed and practicing specialist as well as awarded a certification during training.

In most states, these practices are often covered by insurances hence the need for parent to check whether the particular insurance they are subscribed to can fully cover the expenses. Recommendations from reliable sources such as pediatricians or family friends is also important so as to narrow your search.




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