What is the Difference Between ABA and CBT?

March 16, 2023
mom and applied behavior analyst evaluating a little girl

If you have a child with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) then chances are that you have done some research about different therapy methods to help your child develop his/her skills. 

While there are many different types of therapy out these for children with ASD, two of the most widely known and effective forms of therapy include ABA and CBT. But what’s the difference? Both therapies are recognized as effective and both are goal-oriented, so how do you know which therapy method is right for your child? 

Keep reading to learn a little more about the differences between ABA and CBT, and why we recommend ABA therapy as the most effective therapy for children with ASD. 

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy

Cognitive behavioral therapy, or CBT, is an effective cognitive therapy method that focuses the holistic connection of our thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. Recognized as a form of psychotherapy with emphasis on what’s happening in the present, CBT takes a hands-on approach to changing thinking patterns to reduce negative thoughts or behaviors. 

While some individuals choose to pursue CBT for their children with ASD, CBT is most commonly used to treat conditions such as: 

  • Insomnia 
  • Phobias 
  • Bipolar 
  • Depression 
  • OCD 
  • PTSD 
  • Depression 
  • Anxiety 
  • Addiction

Applied Behavior Analysis Therapy

Applied behavior analysis therapy, or ABA therapy, is a form of Autism therapy that focuses specifically on behavior intervention. Through the teaching of news skills ABA therapy, taught by skilled Board-Certified Behavioral Analysts (BCBAs), aims to reduce maladaptive behaviors by modifying environmental factors that contribute to undesired or inappropriate behaviors. 

While ABA thearpy was specifically developed to help children with ASD, ABA therapy is also effective in treating: 

  • Eating Disorders 
  • Sleep Disorders 
  • Anxiety 
  • Depression 
  • Alzheimer’s Disease 

If you are looking for the most effective way to address your child’s specific behavioral issues, then ABA therapy is the right choice. 

At Step Forward ABA we are proud to offer ABA therapy in Florida. With options in ABA center therapy, in-school therapy, in-home ABA, and more, we offer a wide range of ABA treatment modalities to help your child reach their specific behavioral goals. 

By seeking to understand behaviors and why they occur, our team of Board-Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBAs) curates a specific goal-oriented ABA therapy plan that targets maladaptive behaviors using the scientific principles of applied behavior analysis.  

From ABA center therapy that focuses on school readiness to in-home ABA therapy, and everyhting inbetween, we offer a full scope of ABA services that are geared toward helping your child step into his/her full potential. Our ABA therapists even work with parents one-on-one to reinforce the outcomes of ABA! 

Get in touch with us today to learn more about how ABA therapy can transform your child’s life. You can even come visit us in person by visiting our ABA center in Pembroke Pines, Florida! 

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