SERVING PASCO, HILLSBOROUGH, AND NORTH PINELLAS COUNTIES IN FLORIDA
Qualified, Caring Staff
All of our staff has been trained to treat those in the Autistic and Developmentally Challenged spectrums
About Missing Piece ABA
Missing Piece ABA provides home-based ABA Therapy to children across the Tampa Bay and surrounding area. Our team of Board Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBAs) and Registered Behavior Technicians (RBTs) follow the principles of ABA to provide individualized therapy and treatment plans to children with autism and related disorders. Missing Piece conducts ongoing assessments and family participation training that have positively proven progress.
Group Therapy
We serve you individually, in group or in community settings
Alicia Anthony-Zabala – BCBA
After being in the industry for more than a decade my husband and I decided to open Missing Piece ABA because we felt that there was something missing from the field of Behavior Analysis. While there are many competent providers with reputable companies, we believed there was one aspect that was lacking. What was it? It was the warmth and compassion that we did not see elsewhere. We knew if we were going to continue to provide services it had to be with that missing piece we weren’t seeing elsewhere.
We are parents of a child under the spectrum and we wanted to provide solutions to the challenges of raising a child with Autism, with that missing piece.
We opened Missing Piece ABA in 2021 to assist all parents who need guidance and to show them the warmth and compassion we would have wanted for our own children.
Our Approach
I am George Zabala, BCABA . My wife Alicia and I have created this company to give the most personalized approach possible to treating those in the Autistic Spectrum.
Our Expertise
Caring and Cooperative Environment
At Missing Piece ABA, you will find the most knowledgable and compassionate staff anywhere. Our team is committed to positive experiences for children and adults alike. Please inquire if you have questions regarding our expertise. Your questions will be answered in layman terms and dealt with on a personal level.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Does Applied Behavior Analysis Therapy Work?
Currently, Applied Behavior Analysis therapy is the only evidence-based treatment for autism. This treatment has passed scientific tests of usefulness, quality, and effectiveness. Research shows that Applied Behavior Analysis is imperative for gains in communication and improved independence related to daily living skills. Though not all ABA programs are the same, the Board Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBA) in charge of your case will customize one to the specific needs of your child and family. The mission of your ABA treatment should be to ensure a child has access to the same opportunities as their neurotypical peers. Independence is critical for that!
1. Does Applied Behavior Analysis Therapy Work?
Currently, Applied Behavior Analysis therapy is the only evidence-based treatment for autism. This treatment has passed scientific tests of usefulness, quality, and effectiveness. Research shows that Applied Behavior Analysis is imperative for gains in communication and improved independence related to daily living skills. Though not all ABA programs are the same, the Board Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBA) in charge of your case will customize one to the specific needs of your child and family. The mission of your ABA treatment should be to ensure a child has access to the same opportunities as their neurotypical peers. Independence is critical for that!
1. Does Applied Behavior Analysis Therapy Work?
Currently, Applied Behavior Analysis therapy is the only evidence-based treatment for autism. This treatment has passed scientific tests of usefulness, quality, and effectiveness. Research shows that Applied Behavior Analysis is imperative for gains in communication and improved independence related to daily living skills. Though not all ABA programs are the same, the Board Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBA) in charge of your case will customize one to the specific needs of your child and family. The mission of your ABA treatment should be to ensure a child has access to the same opportunities as their neurotypical peers. Independence is critical for that!
2. Does Applied Behavior Analysis Therapy Cure Autism?
There currently is no cure for autism. It is imperative to recognize that you can manage symptoms and help individuals with autism become as independent as possible through Applied Behavior Analysis therapy, but there is no cure. We want parents to understand from the beginning that Autism Spectrum Disorder is a complicated condition that expresses itself differently in each person it affects. There is no way to “get rid” of Autism, but it is possible to increase the quality of life.
3. Is ABA Therapy Considered a Type of Health Care?
The simple answer to this question is yes. Applied Behavior Analysis falls under the healthcare umbrella, even though the therapy can also be considered educational. ABA therapy is key to addressing behavioral health challenges in children with autism. Research shows that early intervention leads to significant and measurable improvement in a child’s development.
4. Does ABA Therapy Include Speech Therapy and Occupational Therapy?
ABA therapy is separate from occupational therapy and speech therapy, but these therapies are complementary. The primary focus of Applied Behavior Analysis is on predicting and influencing behaviors. Speech therapy focuses on building and integrating effective communication and language, which may or may not be present. Occupational therapy focuses on physical rehabilitation, regaining physical capacity, and adjusting the individual to functioning within limits.
5. Does Applied Behavior Analysis Therapy Replace School?
Applied Behavioral Analysis was not designed to replace school or academics. It is not centered around academics, but it is crucial for learning. It helps ready an autistic child for school and behavioral expectations. When an early intervention like ABA is implemented for toddlers and preschool-age children, they can work on the skills needed to integrate into the classroom more organically.
School readiness includes communication development, self-care, hygiene, and joint attention. Individuals will also work on responding to teachers, following directions, eating, and being aware of one’s own personal space and body.
Additionally, Applied Behavior Analysis grows with your child. Their needs will change as they age through the school system. A good ABA therapist will recognize that and adapt to their client’s needs.
6. Can Parents Be a Part of ABA Therapy?
Yes! Parents are an important part of ABA treatment! Observing and participating in your child’s therapy sessions is a great way to learn more about development and autism. You will be able to integrate what you learn in sessions into how your home life.
7. Can Applied Behavior Analysis Be Used to Reduce Specific Behaviors?
ABA strategies use behavior modification and positive reinforcement to reduce or eliminate destructive, challenging behaviors. These can include aggression, self-injury, and self-stimulatory behaviors like biting or licking inappropriate objects. With that said, it is vital to understand that all behaviors serve a function. Understanding what triggers a behavior and the environmental factors involved can inform treatment.
When we talk about behavior modification, many individuals think of stimming. However, it is essential to realize that stimming is harmless and self-soothing much of the time. A good ABA therapist looks for alternatives that provide the same regulation of emotions as stimming. Stimming that does not cause problems in the child’s life is not problematic and, in some cases, might not even be targeted.
8. Is ABA Therapy Covered by Insurance?
Every healthcare plan is different, and coverage will vary depending on the state. We accept insurance from the companies listed below. If you would like to learn more about your coverage please, contact us. One of our friendly, expert counselors can go over your options and analyze your insurance coverage.
9. Does ABA Include Positive Reinforcement?
Positive reinforcement is a critical component of Applied Behavioral Analysis. This data-driven, structured approach to behavior modification looks at what is reinforcing the unwanted behavior. Research shows that reinforced behavior is often repeated, and behaviors that are not reinforced often dissipate. Registered Behavior Technicians (RBTs) working one-on-one with your child have a variety of reward scenarios they can use, for example, letting the child play a favorite game or engage in fun activities.
10. Is Applied Behavioral Therapy Only for Autism?
The effectiveness of ABA is not limited to those on the autism spectrum. Individuals of different ages and skill levels can use the principles and strategies of ABA to accomplish and learn amazing things! Some companies even use ABA with their employees. Although, in most parts of the United States, insurance companies require a formal autism diagnosis for coverage.
Contact Us
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