Cultivate Behavioral Health & Education - Mokena

ABA therapy is an evidence-based approach for creating significant positive behavior change. The “ABA” in “ABA Therapy” stands for Applied Behavior Analysis. Through the use of the scientific method, ABA therapy focuses on (1) assessing behavior, (2) determining the reason for a behavior, (3) establishing scientifically backed solutions for the behavior, (4) and implementing those solution effectively.

At Cultivate, we utilize only the most effective, evidence-based strategies, and teaching methodologies. Above all, it is our belief that ABA should be engaging, dynamic, and highly reinforcing. We train our Board-Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBAs) and Registered Behavior Technicians (RBTs) to build rapport because we know that this is an investment that will yield major benefits throughout the course of a therapeutic relationship for your child and family. Your family will be paired with a BCBA and BT(s) that fits your child’s needs, learning styles, and preferences. We want our team to come alongside your family and demonstrate the level of compassion and programming precision that is involved in high-quality ABA services. We understand what it takes for learning to occur, and we could not be more thrilled to facilitate the learning process with our clients.

It depends on each child! We create robust and custom-tailored programs for each and every child we work with! Every child has a different way to learn and it’s our job to make sure we use the full arsenal of Applied Behavior Analysis so that we can maximize your child’s learning time. Some children might need more table time. Some children might need more time working at the learning center. Some might need a careful combination of all those and many other styles of teaching. We are strategic and careful in how we approach each child’s treatment plan because we hold, above all, that each and every child has a right to therapy that is right for them.

Skill and Behavior Assessment: As the first step in your treatment journey, our BCBAs will meet with you and your child to assess their individual needs. We use a variety of assessment tools that will evaluate gaps in your child’s skill levels as well as concerns with challenging behavior. These assessments are then used to develop your child’s unique treatment plan.

• Language Development
• Functional Play
• Social Skills
• Daily Living Skills
• Family and Support Trainings
• School Readiness
• Potty Training
• Behavior Management
• Coping strategies

Are you interested in starting ABA services? We would be more than happy to help you! First, you’ll want to make sure you have the proper diagnostic report or psychological evaluation that shows a medical diagnosis of autism. These reports typically include the test administered (usually ADOS or CARS) which will include the rating scales and signed off by an MD, PhD, Clinical Psychologist, or neurologist. Unfortunately, reports signed by SLP or LPCC or a school psychologist are commonly considered Educational Diagnosis and insurance will not always cover or recognize it as an official diagnosis.

Once you have this, you can fill out our intake form and someone will get in touch with you right away!

The simple answer is: whenever you’re ready. You are your child’s greatest advocate and protector. It’s okay if you don’t have all the answers, or aren’t able to perfectly explain everything. You can still educate those around you about your child’s autism when you have the energy to do so. Check out our complete guide for examples and tips.

Teach and practice calming strategies with your child. Helping your child learn how to manage their emotions and reactions is very important. Teach your child different ways they can calm down and relax, such as:

• Deep breathing, counting to 10, using sensory toys (like squishy balls or putty), going for a walk, listening to music
• Build "relaxation time" into their normal routines and schedules
• Practice these when your child is happy and calm so that later, when they’re highly stressed, they can access these skills

For more expert tips, check out our meltdowns guide.