Photo of Shannon Grose, FNP-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Shannon Grose
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP-BC
Verified Verified
Lewiston, ME 04240  (Online Only)
Shannon Grose is a board-certified family nurse practitioner. She attended Dabney S Lancaster Community College where she obtained her associate's degree in nursing and Frontier Nursing University where she obtained her graduate degree in nursing. She started her career as a registered nurse working in both the emergency department and correctional facility settings. As a family nurse practitioner, she has gained experience serving a diverse population of all ages via in-person and virtual care settings. Start working on an improved journey to a healthier lifestyle today.
Shannon Grose is a board-certified family nurse practitioner. She attended Dabney S Lancaster Community College where she obtained her associate's degree in nursing and Frontier Nursing University where she obtained her graduate degree in nursing. She started her career as a registered nurse working in both the emergency department and correctional facility settings. As a family nurse practitioner, she has gained experience serving a diverse population of all ages via in-person and virtual care settings. Start working on an improved journey to a healthier lifestyle today.
(207) 548-5317 View (207) 548-5317
Applied Behavioral Analysis (ABA) Psychiatrists

Who is ABA therapy for?

ABA therapy is most widely applied to teach basic behavioral, communication, and social skills to children with autism spectrum disorder and other developmental disorders. It may also be used to help people undergoing rehabilitation following brain injury. It uses reward-based learning techniques to impart essential life skills. ABA is also used in the treatment of some other conditions. One is Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) , to help children overcome difficulties with concentration and controlling impulsive behaviors. For people with Obsessive Compulsive Disorders, it is sometimes used to help them overcome compulsive behavior. ABA therapy is also sometimes used in cases of PTSD, to help people turn to positive behaviours when they have experiences that trigger distressing memories.

Why do people need ABA?

Children with autism and other developmental disorders need ABA therapy as a way to learn how to communicate and engage with others, improve their general ability to function and lead fulfilling lives, and diminish dangerous behaviors. The techniques used in ABA therapy are based on established principles of learning, and positive reinforcement—supplying earned rewards—is an important strategy for motivating positive behaviour change.

What happens in ABA therapy?

The first thing that happens in ABA therapy is an evaluation of the child in service of developing a treatment plan. The therapist meets with the child’s parent(s) in order to learn about the family and the child, assesses the child’s behavior and ability level, and then creates a plan tailored to the specific needs of that person. Once the treatment goals are established, the skills to be learned are broken down into small, component steps. Treatment sessions focus on learning and practicing each step, and furnishing meaningful rewards as steps are learned, behaviors are spontaneously implemented, and goals are accomplished. ABA therapists also train caregivers and families so that behavioral progress occurs beyond the clinical setting.

What problems does ABA therapy treat?

One of the primary goals of ABA therapy is to decrease the outbursts and other nonproductive behaviors of children with autism. At the same time, ABA aims to remedy language deficits and help such children learn how to communicate successfully. ABA therapy helps children learn age-appropriate social skills and gain skills, such as attention and focus, that are necessary for school.