What should my BCBA session notes include?
Objective session notes are an essential part of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy sessions. They provide a detailed record of what occurred during each session and help to guide future sessions. Here is the information that should be included in objective ABA session notes:
Date and time of the session: The date and time of each session should be noted at the top of the notes.
Setting: The setting in which the session occurred should be noted, such as in a classroom or therapy room.
Participants: List the participants who were present during the session, including the client, therapist, and any other observers.
Target behaviors: List the target behaviors that were addressed during the session. This may include a detailed description of the behavior, such as what it looks like, how often it occurs, and in what context.
Antecedent events: Note any antecedent events that may have preceded the target behavior, such as a specific stimulus or event that triggered the behavior.
Consequences: Describe the consequences that followed the target behavior, such as a reinforcer or punishment.
Data: Record the data collected during the session, such as the number of occurrences of the target behavior, the duration of the behavior, or the latency to respond.
Therapist’s actions: Note the specific actions taken by the therapist during the session, such as the types of prompts or cues used, reinforcement given, or any other interventions implemented.
Client’s response: Record the client’s response to the therapist’s actions, including whether the behavior decreased, increased, or remained the same.
Generalization and maintenance: Note any progress made towards generalization and maintenance of the target behavior outside of the therapy session.
Problems or challenges: Document any problems or challenges that arose during the session, such as difficulties with the client’s attention or motivation, and how they were addressed.
Plan for future sessions: Record any plans for future sessions based on the progress made during the current session, including any changes to the target behavior, interventions, or data collection methods.
By including all of this information in objective ABA session notes, therapists can track progress over time, adjust interventions as needed, and ensure that sessions are effective in helping clients achieve their goals.