The Science of Behavior
What Is Applied Behavior Analysis?
ABA therapy is one of the most rigorously studied therapeutic approaches in the world. At its core, it is about understanding why behaviors happen - and using that understanding to create meaningful, lasting change.
Every behavior serves a function. Whether a behavior is communicative, sensory, attention-seeking, or avoidance-based, ABA identifies that function through systematic observation and assessment. Once the function is understood, the clinical team designs a personalized intervention that teaches a more effective, socially appropriate replacement behavior.
At Copper Valley, we apply this science with warmth and respect for the whole person. Our clinicians do not simply target problem behaviors - they build skills, strengthen relationships, and support clients in reaching their own goals for independence and quality of life.
"Understanding behavior is the first step toward meaningful change."
Our Approach
How ABA Therapy Works at Copper Valley
Comprehensive Assessment
We begin with a thorough functional behavior assessment (FBA) - interviews with the client and family, direct observations, and standardized assessments - to understand the full picture before designing any intervention.
Individualized Behavior Plan
Your BCBA designs a Behavior Intervention Plan (BIP) tailored specifically to your client's diagnosis, environment, goals, and family dynamics. No two plans are the same.
Collaborative Team Delivery
A Registered Behavior Technician (RBT) delivers direct sessions under the close supervision of your BCBA. Family members are active participants - not observers - in the therapeutic process.
Data-Driven Progress
Every session generates data. Your BCBA reviews this data continuously to measure progress, identify what is working, and make real-time adjustments to the program.
Generalization Across Settings
Skills learned in sessions are designed to transfer to real life - at home, in the community, at school, or in the workplace. We coach families on how to reinforce progress outside of sessions.
Transition & Fading Support
When clients reach their goals, we support a thoughtful transition - whether that means fading services, transitioning to independent living, or stepping into the workforce with confidence.
Who We Serve
Specialized in Complex, High-Needs Cases
We work with teens and adults whose behavioral challenges have not responded to standard interventions - clients with combined diagnoses, significant histories, and high support needs.
Our clinical team has deep experience supporting clients navigating multiple co-occurring diagnoses - including autism spectrum disorder, intellectual disability, anxiety, trauma histories, and behavioral health conditions. We do not shy away from complexity. We lean into it.
Many of our clients are in critical life transitions - aging out of school services, preparing for employment, moving toward independent living, or fading from intensive support systems. These transitions require a clinician who understands both the behavioral science and the human stakes involved. That is what Copper Valley provides.
Board Certified Behavior Analyst
Your BCBA designs and oversees the entire treatment program. They conduct assessments, write the behavior plan, supervise the RBT, and meet regularly with the family to review progress and adjust the approach.
Registered Behavior Technician
Your RBT delivers direct, one-on-one sessions with the client. They implement the behavior plan designed by the BCBA, collect session data, and build a consistent, trusting relationship with the client.
You - The Most Important Member
Family involvement is not optional at Copper Valley - it is essential. Parents, caregivers, and support networks are coached throughout the process so skills generalize beyond the therapy session into everyday life.