Does ABA therapy work for teens?

ABA therapy can work for teens, but the goals look very different from a toddler’s. Results depend on the teen, the goals and how much the teen wants them.

For a teenager, ABA usually targets real-life skills: keeping a conversation going, making and keeping friends, handling frustration, managing a schedule, cooking a simple meal or getting around town safely. Teens should help choose their goals and be able to say no. Behavior analysts are expected to get a client’s assent where it applies. Hours tend to be lower too. Colorado’s draft Medicaid rule uses a review guideline of 10 hours a week for ages 13 to 20, and it says that isn’t a cap. Small-group social skills practice suits many teens.