Glossary
ABA terms in plain English
Plain-English definitions of the credentials, billing codes, and clinical terms ABA agencies live in.
All terms
- ABA (Applied Behavior Analysis)Evidence-based science of behavior change applied clinically.
- BCBABoard Certified Behavior Analyst — graduate-level ABA clinician.
- BCaBABoard Certified Assistant Behavior Analyst — bachelor's level under BCBA supervision.
- RBTRegistered Behavior Technician — paraprofessional who delivers ABA under supervision.
- OTOccupational therapy — sometimes coordinated with ABA.
- SLPSpeech-language pathologist — frequent ABA referral source.
- ABC (Antecedent-Behavior-Consequence)Functional analysis framework central to ABA assessment.
- FBA (Functional Behavior Assessment)Structured assessment to identify behavior function before treatment.
- Behavior Support Plan (BSP / BIP)Written plan defining function-based interventions and replacement skills.
- VB-MAPPVerbal Behavior Milestones Assessment & Placement Program.
- ABLLS-RAssessment of Basic Language and Learning Skills — Revised.
- AFLSAssessment of Functional Living Skills.
- Discrete Trial Training (DTT)Structured teaching method using clear antecedent–response–consequence trials.
- Natural Environment Teaching (NET)Teaching skills in everyday contexts and routines.
- PECSPicture Exchange Communication System.
- ShapingReinforcing successive approximations toward a target behavior.
- PromptingCues that increase the likelihood of a correct response.
- FadingGradually removing prompts so behavior is independent.
- ExtinctionDiscontinuing reinforcement of a previously reinforced behavior.
- ReinforcementConsequence that increases the future probability of a behavior.
- CPT CodeProcedure code used for medical billing (e.g. 97153, 97155).
- CPT 97151Behavior identification assessment by physician or other qualified healthcare professional.
- CPT 97153Adaptive behavior treatment by protocol — direct technician service.
- CPT 97155Adaptive behavior treatment with protocol modification by physician/QHCP.
- CPT 97156Family adaptive behavior treatment guidance — caregiver training.
- VOB (Verification of Benefits)Confirmation of insurance coverage and patient cost-share before service.
- Prior AuthorizationPayer approval required before delivering covered services.
- SOAP NoteSubjective–Objective–Assessment–Plan clinical note format.
- HIPAAU.S. health information privacy and security law.
- BAA (Business Associate Agreement)HIPAA contract required when a vendor handles PHI.
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