AIM- Accept. Identify. Move.
AIM helps individuals of all ages and walks of life develop psychological flexibility and thereby be better equip to handle every day challenges. As such, it can be used as an antecedent and consequence intervention for preventing and addressing problem behaviors.
Common Questions
What is AIM?
AIM, which stands for Accept, Identify, Move, represents a clinical behavior analysis approach that integrates elements of ABA, mindfulness, and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). AIM is designed to empower individuals to embrace both physical and psychological experiences, allowing them to deeply engage in life’s meaningful aspects.
AIM addresses social and emotional challenges by utilizing the principles of mindfulness, ACT, and applied behavior analysis. This approach tackles everyday behavioral issues, enhancing overall well-being by offering strategies to confront these difficulties. In the end, this potent blend fosters improved emotional health for its users. Every aspect of this program is tailored to each individual participant.
AIM operates on six core tenets to nurture skills that lead to Psychological Flexibility, bolster internal motivation, and reduce problematic behaviors. To ensure comprehensive understanding of these concepts, our program employs Dr. Dixon’s model, allowing participants to learn, practice, and embody the intricacies of the Hexaflex:
- Present Moment: Represented by Serena the Seahorse
- Values: Represented by Bidzill the Bear
- Committed Action: Represented by Tullie the Turtle
- Self-as-Context: Represented by Ophelia the Octopus
- Delusion: Represented by Ozzi the Owl
- Acceptance: Represented by Pepin the Penguin
What materials do we use?
- An interview and assessment to help indicate the participant baseline skills and use of AIM principle
- Dr. Dixon’s AIM workbook
- Explorer posters, characters, books and soon the AIM Explorer Curriculum with recommended materials
- Other ABA STEPS developed materials
How do we teach AIM?
At ABA STEPS, LLC, we instruct participants in the AIM approach by:
- Teaching each element comprehensively.
- Presenting narratives that simplify each concept through memorable characters.
- Offering numerous opportunities for practice.
- Integrating the teachings with the PEAK program.
- Ensuring completion of the AIM workbook, including practice activities and worksheets.
- Guiding participants in practicing each tenet individually.
- Encouraging the combined use of all tenets to tackle everyday stressors.
- Conducting practice sessions on a 1:1 basis.
- Promoting the generalization of its use in group settings.
How is our AIM offered?
- Directly to participants in 1:1 sessions
- Directly to participants in group sessions
- Directly to parent/caregiver as part of a home program