Focusing on maximizing independence & self-reliance, we believe the best quality of life can be achieved.

Our Approach

By integrating a hands-off approach to ABA with a CQI model, Active Steps provides a distinctive and thorough method for behavior intervention. This approach emphasizes collaboration, empowerment, and ongoing enhancement, distinguishing Active Steps from other ABA agencies and highlighting its commitment to effective practices in behavior therapy.

  • "Hands off" refers to our approach of promoting a safe and dignified environment for our clients by refraining from physically prompting them during therapy sessions. Instead, we prioritize alternative strategies such as verbal cues, visual supports, and positive reinforcement to encourage skill development and independence.

  • Positive Behavior Support (PBS) is an approach that aims to improve the overall quality of life and decrease challenging behaviors in individuals, particularly those with developmental disabilities or challenging behaviors.

  • Continuous Quality Improvement (CQI) is a management philosophy and systematic process aimed at improving processes, products, or services within an organization. It involves ongoing efforts to enhance efficiency, effectiveness, and customer satisfaction through iterative cycles of planning, implementing, assessing, and refining strategies and practices.

What to Expect During the FBA Process

  • 1. Initial Assessment and Information Gathering

    The process typically begins with an initial assessment where the behavior analyst gathers information about the individual's history, developmental milestones, medical history, and current behavior patterns. This may involve interviews with caregivers, teachers, and other relevant individuals, as well as reviewing records and documentation.

  • 2. Direct Observation

    The behavior analyst conducts direct observations of the individual in various settings, such as home, school, or community environments, to gather data on the target behaviors. These observations provide valuable information about the antecedents (what triggers the behavior), the behavior itself, and the consequences (what maintains or reinforces the behavior).

  • 3. Functional Assessment Interviews

    The behavior analyst may also conduct structured interviews with caregivers, teachers, and other individuals who interact with the individual to gather information about the function of the behavior. This involves asking questions to determine what purpose or function the behavior serves for the individual, such as escaping or avoiding demands, seeking attention, obtaining preferred items, or sensory stimulation.

  • 4. Functional Analysis

    In some cases, the behavior analyst may conduct a formal functional analysis, which involves manipulating environmental variables to test different hypotheses about the function of the behavior. This may be done in a controlled setting, such as a clinic or classroom, under close supervision to ensure safety.

  • 5. Data Collection and Analysis

    Throughout the FBA process, data is collected on the target behaviors using various methods, such as direct observation, behavior rating scales, and structured assessments. The behavior analyst analyzes the data to identify patterns and trends in the behavior, as well as potential triggers and maintaining factors.

  • 6. Functional Behavior Assessment Report

    Once the assessment is complete, the behavior analyst prepares a comprehensive report summarizing the findings of the FBA. This report typically includes a description of the target behaviors, the results of the assessment process, hypotheses about the function of the behavior, and recommendations for intervention.

  • 7. Behavior Intervention Plan (BIP) Development

    Based on the results of the FBA, the behavior analyst develops a Behavior Intervention Plan (BIP) tailored to the individual's specific needs and circumstances. The BIP outlines strategies and interventions to address the target behaviors, including antecedent modifications, teaching alternative skills, and reinforcement strategies.

  • 8. Report Review

    Once the FBA report is completed, a Behavior Analyst will review the FBA report with the caregivers to receive their approval for the upcoming treatment. Once approved by caregivers, the FBA report is submitted to the insurance company to approve the ABA services.

Services we offer

  • Direct ABA

    It all begins with an idea. Maybe you want to launch a business. Maybe you want to turn a hobby into something more. Or maybe you have a creative project to share with the world. Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference.

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  • ABA Family Support

    It all begins with an idea. Maybe you want to launch a business. Maybe you want to turn a hobby into something more. Or maybe you have a creative project to share with the world. Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference.

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  • Telehealth

    It all begins with an idea. Maybe you want to launch a business. Maybe you want to turn a hobby into something more. Or maybe you have a creative project to share with the world. Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference.

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  • Social Skills Groups

    Social Skills Groups (SSG) are designed to help address the challenges your child's may experience related to how the interact and relate to others. Our philosophy and practice is to build on strengths rather than focus on weaknesses and deficits.

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  • School Based Services

    Active Steps is certified by the California Department of Education as a nonpublic agency to provide behavior intervention design (BID) and behavior intervention implementation (BII) to school-aged children with autism and other special needs. ​

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Meet our clinicians

  • Danielle Shults

    CLINICAL DIRECTOR

  • Cathy Arroyo

    CLINICAL DIRECTOR

  • Jasmine Brennan

    SR. BEHAVIOR ANALYST

  • Amanda Ford

    SR. BEHAVIOR ANALYST

  • Amber Shults

    SR. BEHAVIOR ANALYST

  • Samantha Brown

    BEHAVIOR ANALYST

  • Maria Bohra

    BEHAVIOR ANALYST

  • Patricia Luna

    BEHAVIOR ANALYST

  • Rebecca Vaden

    BEHAVIOR ANALYST

  • Cindy Bong

    BEHAVIOR ANALYST

  • Ashley Fugate

    BEHAVIOR ANALYST

  • Alec Brum

    BEHAVIOR ANALYST