What’s the Difference: ABA Therapy vs Speech Therapy

ABA Therapy vs Speech Therapy

ABA therapy vs speech therapy are two of the functional behavior management approaches that imply similar objectives. These behavioral therapies are for children with autism. Both of these therapies aim to improve the behavior and communication issues in children.

The two therapies have different approaches. In this blog, we will discuss in detail about the two therapy options. Stay tuned till the end, and let us compare the two options, the methods involved in executing each therapy, and which expert to consult with if your child needs to undergo any of these therapies. So, let’s dig in!

Drawing the Comparison: ABA Therapy vs Speech Therapy

Specifically, applied behavioral analysis therapy is helpful for young children diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder. Some of the implemented and reputable strategies that professionals employ include ABA therapy and speech therapy to enhance behavioral learning among such kids.

Here is a comprehensive breakdown of these therapies for your better understanding:

ABA Therapy

As mentioned earlier, Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy links behavioral data to scientific processes of learning and behavioral enhancement. Although it is associated with children with ASD, speech problems, or developmental delays only, it is good for all ages. 

It also improves the overall capability of a person because it allows for the development of motor skills, and social skills, and even enables children to learn skills.

Imagine ABA therapy overall focuses on understanding behavior. Therapists break down actions into three key parts: 

• Trigger (antecedent), 
• Behavior itself, 
• Consequence. 

This analysis helps them identify desired behaviors and encourage them through positive reinforcement, like rewards. Think of it as building a positive feedback loop.

Speech Therapy

Communication therapy called speech and language therapy is different from ABA because its goal is to help a child suffering from language deficit learn how to communicate. Provided by Speech-Language Pathologists (SLPs) to not only the children with ASD but also those who have been rendered speechless by injuries.

• Imagine speech therapy as a communication gym. An SLP evaluates a client’s difficulties and develops targets based on the conditions. 
• They focus on life skills, for example, the muscles required for speech production, the ability to interpret social cues in conversation as well and handling an augmentative or alternative communication system.

To motivate the patient and ensure therapy is productive, therapists use creative objects like songs, picture cards, and more during therapy. Lastly, speech therapy assists people to communicate effectively and without inhibition in their day-to-day lives.

Integrating ABA Therapy with Speech Therapy

Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) and speech therapy are different types of procedures. They can also be used as a combination to improve communication skills. Both approaches share similar goals of teaching individuals to improve their behavior and communication skills.

The Goal of ABA Therapy

ABA therapy provides a structured framework for improving communication. Speech therapists break down communication skills into smaller, more manageable steps. By utilizing positive reinforcement techniques, ABA therapy encourages desired behaviors using a positive feedback loop. This structured approach allows individuals to gradually build communication skills and confidence.

Approach to Speech Therapy

Speech-Language Pathologists (SLPs), on the other hand, bring a wealth of knowledge about language development and communication methods. They can assess an individual’s specific communication difficulties and craft personalized goals.

Unlike the structured approach of ABA, speech therapy often incorporates a more eclectic approach, employing creative tools like songs, picture boards, and interactive games to make therapy engaging and effective. This blend of approaches caters to different learning styles and keeps individuals motivated throughout the therapy process.

Combining the Two Procedures

ABA therapists and SLPs can also work collaboratively.  SLPs can equip ABA therapists with alternative communication methods, such as picture exchange systems or sign language, to support the development of specific target behaviors.

The ABA therapists can help SLPs interpret data related to communication-related positive behaviors. This data can then be used to plan therapy sessions for better language acquisition. Similarly, ABA therapists can also collaborate with SLPs in choosing the right prompts for controlling the desired communication behaviors in individuals.

Hence, ABA and speech therapy, when linked together, bring great results. This collaboration allows therapists to deal with the unique communication needs of each individual. Involving them in meaningful communication empowers them to face the world with greater confidence.

FAQs

Does ABA therapy improve speech?

Yes, ABA therapy helps with speech issues, too. ABA therapy is a behavioral management therapy done to treat children with autism. This therapy option is directed toward improving the behavior, language delay and communication patterns of an individual.

Is ABA therapy the same as OT?

ABA therapy focuses on behavioral management and development. Occupational Therapy (OT) focuses on teaching and developing skills in children concerning their everyday activities. In comparison to both of these options, ABA therapy uses a more systematic and evaluative model to identify socially meaningful behaviors for your child. 

What is the difference between ABA and verbal behavior?

ABA uses discrete training to teach specific skills and then helps kids apply them in various situations. Verbal Behavior, on the other hand, focuses on building strong vocal language skills for everyday communication.

Does ABA improve IQ?

A study found that children receiving intensive ABA therapy, at least 36 hours per week, showed notable gains in both IQ and adaptive skills, which are essential for daily life. This research highlights the potential for more substantial progress with full-time ABA compared to programs with fewer weekly hours.

Conclusion

Now after reading these conclusion sources, you will have a clear concept for both of these therapies. ABA therapy vs speech therapy can help many children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). ABA therapy employs scientific principles for the analysis of behavioral interactions. It entails the practice of rewarding good behavior or action to encourage similar behavior in the future.

Speech therapy often involves the process of assisting an individual with speech impairment to find ways in which he or she can be able to communicate efficiently. However, these two therapies have their uniqueness but they can be integrated to provide an almost complete early intervention for children with ASD.

This combined approach can empower such nonverbal children to learn, improve, and communicate more confidently.

References

1. Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) – Autism Speaks
2. Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) for Children With Autism – CHOP
3. 14 ABA Resources You Need to Know About – Therapy Brands
4. Comprehensive ABA-based interventions in the therapy – NCBI
5. The Controversy Around ABA – Child Mind Institute
6. A popular list of Autism & ABA curricula and assessment-motivity
7. ABA: An Evidence-Based therapy for Autism – NECC
8. Contact Us – Schedule Consultation