Resources

Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy is a research-based form of therapy used for decades. Therapists use it help children and their families make positive behavioral changes in their lives. Bright Light’s team uses it to help children with challenges such as autism and developmental delays grow and thrive.

Using ABA therapy, we seek to understand how a person’s environment affects their behavior and learning. Bright Light’s therapists use it to reduce problem behaviors such as aggression and tantrums and to help children build social skills.¹ Therapists use ABA in settings such as home or school to help youth build skills they can use to succeed in those same areas of life.

ABA therapy can be used to help build skills in many ways, including:²

• Social skills
• Attention and concentration
• Motor skills
• Language and communication
• Academic skills

Resources
1: https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/25197-applied-behavior-analysis

2: https://www.autismspeaks.org/applied-behavior-analysis

Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder, often called ADHD, is a neurodevelopmental disorder that can cause symptoms such as hyperactivity, inattention, and impulsivity. ¹ The symptoms of each person with ADHD can vary in severity, and everyone has their own support or treatment needs. However, many people with ADHD have a harder time with things like concentrating on work or school tasks and following instructions. This can make it harder for young people with ADHD to succeed in the classroom and reach other goals.

Treatment for ADHD may include:

• Medications – Medications can help people with symptoms like hyperactivity and problems concentrating.
• Behavioral Health Therapy – Counseling can help families deal with the challenges of ADHD and learn strategies for overcoming them.
• School supports – Supports provided at school can help children build skills, reach their learning goals, and make friends.²

Resources

1: https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/attention-deficit-hyperactivity-disorder-adhd

2: https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/conditions-and-diseases/adhdadd

The most common mental health challenges among children and youth are anxiety, depression, and behavioral challenges.¹ Children may also have a wide range of other challenges just like adults, including PTSD or trauma.

Many youth with behavioral needs do not get the support they need. In 2018-2019, only half of children ages 3-17 with a behavioral health challenge got treatment.² It’s important to make sure children get the services they need so they can have the best start in life and keep challenges like anxiety or depression from getting worse as the child gets older.

If your family is having behavioral health challenges, Bright Light can help. Contact our team through our referral form or call 800-244-4691.

If you are having a mental health or other emergency, call 911 immediately.

Resources
1: https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/adolescent-mental-health

2: https://www.cdc.gov/children-mental-health/data-research/index.html