Understanding the Research
The study by Araiba and Colić (2022) underscores the effectiveness of telehealth direct ABA services. It offers preliminary practice recommendations based on case studies and existing literature. The recommendations span various aspects of telehealth service delivery, including caregiver support, rapport building, preference assessments, session frequency, program adaptation, behavior management, and technological issues.Caregiver Support
One of the key recommendations is to engage caregivers actively in the telehealth process. Practitioners should discuss the role of caregivers before starting the service and maintain regular communication throughout. Establishing and maintaining rapport with caregivers is crucial for the success of telehealth sessions.
Rapport Building
Building rapport with clients is essential for effective intervention. The research suggests dedicating initial sessions to pairing and rapport-building activities. This can include playing the client's favorite songs or videos and engaging in joint activities that the client enjoys.
Preference Assessments and Reinforcers
Finding effective reinforcers can be challenging in a telehealth setting. Conducting regular preference assessments helps identify potential reinforcers that can be delivered remotely. Practitioners can use various online tools and games to keep the client engaged.
Session Frequency and Length
The research highlights the importance of flexibility in determining session frequency and length. Factors such as client suitability, available reinforcers, and the need for short breaks should be considered when planning telehealth sessions.
Program Adaptation
Adapting ABA programs for telehealth involves modifying materials, target responses, and prompts. Practitioners should also plan for generalization across different settings and modalities to ensure skills acquired via telehealth transfer to in-person settings.
Behavior Management
Continuous monitoring of client behavior is essential. If new challenging behaviors emerge, practitioners should conduct a functional behavior assessment and develop a behavior intervention plan. Frequent communication with caregivers is crucial for effective behavior management.
Technological Issues
Technological difficulties can significantly impact telehealth sessions. Practitioners should be familiar with troubleshooting common issues and have a plan in place to address them. Reliable internet connections, software, and hardware are vital for smooth telehealth delivery.
Conclusion
The preliminary recommendations provided by Araiba and Colić (2022) offer valuable insights for ABA practitioners navigating the complexities of telehealth services. By implementing these strategies, practitioners can enhance the quality of their telehealth ABA services, ensuring better outcomes for children with autism.
To read the original research paper, please follow this link: Preliminary Practice Recommendations for Telehealth Direct Applied Behavior Analysis Services with Children with Autism.
