Resources

Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy is a type of research-based behavioral therapy that uses learning and behavior to help people make positive behavioral changes. It has been used for decades to help children with autism, developmental delays, and other needs. ABA therapists get to know the children or adults they serve to understand how their behavior and learning are affected by their environment. The goal is to help decrease problem behaviors such as aggression and disruptive behaviors, while building positive behaviors and social skills.¹ ABA therapy can take place in many settings, including home or school, to help a child build skills they can use to thrive in many areas of life.

ABA therapy can be used to help children improve or develop a wide range of skills, including:²

• Social skills
• Language and communication
• Attention and concentration
• Self-care
• Motor skills
• 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 (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder with symptoms that can include inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. These can make it hard to thrive in many areas of life.¹ Everyone with ADHD is different, with their own unique challenges and different degrees of symptom severity, but many people with ADHD have trouble focusing, completing school or work assignments, or following instructions. They may also interrupt or have trouble staying seated in class. This can make it harder for a child with ADHD to do well in school or make friends.

Treatment for ADHD may include:

• Medications – Medications may help with symptoms such as trouble focusing and hyperactivity.
• Behavioral health counseling – Therapy can help people of all ages and their families deal with the challenges they face and learn strategies for better communication, stress management, and more.
• School supports – Supports provided in a school can help a child build skills for learning and making friends².

Resources

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

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

Depression, anxiety, and behavioral disorders are the most common mental health challenges among children and youth.¹ Children can have the same mental or behavioral health challenges as adults. These may include a wide range of other challenges, including:

• Eating disorders
• PTSD
• Substance abuse
• Trauma

Many children with mental health challenges do not get treatment. Only about half of youth aged 3-17 with a mental health condition in 2018-19 got treatment.² It’s important to close that gap to make sure all children live fulfilling, happy lives and prevent untreated issues from getting worse as they get older. If you or someone in your family or community is experiencing behavioral health challenges, Mentor South Bay can help. Contact our admissions team by filling out 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