Intensive Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) Treatment is a specialized approach to education. It is a very active teaching and learning process that is driven by outcomes. Teaching is individually tailored to each child and in the beginning stages rely heavily on one-to-one therapy. The focus includes communication, cognitive, play, social, self-help and other functional skills.

The number of direct intervention hours provided to a child may range from 15 to as many as 30-40 hours or more per week.  Sessions are typically provided in 3-hour blocks of time, and may occur five days per week. Treatment duration typically lasts more than 2 years.

The specific number of hours that are appropriate for a child depends on numerous factors such as age of child, school placement when appropriate, and ancillary services, etc.