Building Functional Communication Skills
Our Verbal Behavior Training program uses Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) principles to teach children how to use language functionally across different settings and with various communication partners.
Benefits of Verbal Behavior Training
Our ABA-based approach helps children develop practical communication skills for daily life
Functional Communication
Teaches language that serves practical purposes
Verbal Operants
Develops different language functions (mands, tacts, etc.)
Behavior Reduction
Replaces challenging behaviors with communication
Generalization
Skills transfer across people, settings and materials
Listener Skills
Improves understanding and following directions
Social Interaction
Enhances conversational and play skills
Our Verbal Behavior Training Process
We implement evidence-based ABA techniques to build functional communication skills through structured yet naturalistic teaching methods.
Assessment
VB-MAPP or other assessment to identify communication level
Mand Training
Teaching requesting as first verbal operant
Tact Training
Developing labeling/naming skills
Listener Responding
Building receptive language skills
Intraverbal Training
Developing conversational skills
Generalization
Ensuring skills transfer to natural environments
Who Benefits from VBT?
Verbal Behavior Training helps children with various communication challenges
Autism Spectrum Disorder
Speech/Language Delays
Apraxia of Speech
Down Syndrome
Global Developmental Delay
Nonverbal or Minimally Verbal
Expressive Language Disorder
Genetic Disorders
Cerebral Palsy
Hearing Impairments
Cognitive Disabilities
Social Communication Disorder
Key Verbal Behavior Techniques
Evidence-based methods we use to develop communication skills
Mand Training
Teaching requests for wants/needs
Discrete Trial Training
Structured teaching of specific skills
Natural Environment Teaching
Incidental teaching in daily contexts
Errorless Learning
Minimizing errors during skill acquisition
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about Verbal Behavior Training
How is VBT different from traditional speech therapy?
VBT focuses specifically on the function of language using ABA principles, while traditional speech therapy often focuses more on articulation and language structure.
What age is best to start VBT?
Early intervention is ideal - we work with children as young as 18 months. The earlier communication skills are taught, the better the outcomes.
How long does it take to see results?
Many children show progress within weeks, especially with manding (requesting), but comprehensive language development is an ongoing process.
Do you use PECS (Picture Exchange System)?
Yes, we incorporate PECS when appropriate as a bridge to vocal communication or for children who need augmentative systems.
Can VBT help nonverbal children?
Absolutely. VBT is particularly effective for nonverbal children, using alternative communication methods that may lead to vocal speech.