Mental Health Matters: How ABA Can Support Emotional Wellness

In honor of Mental Health Awareness Month, board-certified behavior analyst Paola dives into how Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) can support mental health, from managing anxiety and postpartum depression to reshaping negative thinking patterns and building more reinforcing routines. Registered Behavior Technicians Brittanny and Leslie explain how evidence-based tools like Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Behavioral Activation (BA), positive self-talk, and self-monitoring can be used to decrease emotional avoidance, improve mood, and build values-driven behavior. The hosts break down Albert Ellis’s ABC model, Bandura’s theory of reciprocal determinism, and show how core ABA concepts like reinforcement, rule-governed behavior, shaping, and stimulus control can empower everyday people—not just those in therapy—to take action toward mental wellness. Listeners will leave with real-world strategies to support themselves and others using behavioral science that’s accessible, compassionate, and affirming.

 

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📚 Learning Objectives for CEU:

• Define and identify the six core processes of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and describe how each process relates to ABA principles such as rule-governed behavior, shaping, and reinforcement.
• Explain the ABC model of emotion and behavior developed by Albert Ellis, and apply the model to everyday mental health situations (e.g., postpartum depression, anxiety).
• Apply ABA strategies to everyday mental health scenarios, including self-monitoring, thought labeling, contingency management, and reinforcement for replacement behaviors.

 

References: 

• Bandura, A. (1986). Social foundations of thought and action: A social cognitive theory. Englewood Cliffs, NJ: Prentice-Hall.
• Dimidjian, S., Hollon, S. D., Dobson, K. S., Schmaling, K. B., Kohlenberg, R. J., Addis, M. E., ... & Jacobson, N. S. (2006). Randomized trial of behavioral activation, cognitive therapy, and antidepressant medication in the acute treatment of adults with major depression. Journal of Consulting and Clinical Psychology, 74(4), 658–670. 
• Ellis, A. (1962). Reason and emotion in psychotherapy. New York: Lyle Stuart.
• Hayes, S. C., Strosahl, K. D., & Wilson, K. G. (1999). Acceptance and commitment therapy: An experiential approach to behavior change. New York: Guilford Press.