Functional Communication Training (FCT) Explained

December 24, 2025

Turning Frustration into Communication

When a child can’t clearly express their needs, emotions, or discomfort, behavior often becomes their “language.” This can look like hitting, crying, running away, or other challenging actions. Functional Communication Training (FCT) is a powerful, evidence-based approach that teaches children safer, clearer ways to communicate instead.

At the Social Behavior Education Center (SBEC) in Orange County, California, our clinicians use Functional Communication Training (FCT) within ABA therapy to help children replace problem behaviors with meaningful, functional communication. In this article, you’ll find Functional Communication Training (FCT) explained in simple terms—what it is, how it works, and how it can support your child and family.

What Is Functional Communication Training (FCT)?

Functional Communication Training (FCT) is a structured behavioral intervention that teaches a child to use new, appropriate communication skills to get what they need—rather than relying on challenging behaviors.

Instead of punishing behaviors, FCT asks an important question:

“What is this behavior trying to say?”

A child may hit because they are overwhelmed. They may scream because they want attention, or throw toys because they want a break. With FCT, we help the child learn a clearer “replacement behavior,” such as:

Asking for a break
Using a picture or device to say “help”
Saying “all done” or “stop”
Pointing to a visual choice

Research summarized by the National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI) shows that Functional Communication Training is highly effective for reducing severe challenging behavior by teaching communication alternatives that serve the same function as the original behavior. Parents can read more there to explore the scientific background of FCT.

Functional Communication Training (FCT) Explained Step by Step

To understand Functional Communication Training (FCT) explained fully, it helps to look at the key stages we use at SBEC.

1. Identify the Function of Behavior

First, our Board Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBAs) conduct a Functional Behavior Assessment (FBA). We carefully observe:

What happens before the behavior (triggers)
What the child does (the behavior itself)
What happens after (the consequence)

Common behavior “functions” include:

Attention (seeking interaction)
Escape (avoiding tasks or situations)
Access to items (wanting toys, food, or activities)
Sensory input (seeking or avoiding sensations)

2. Choose a Replacement Communication Response

Next, we select a communication response that is easier and more appropriate than the behavior. This might be:

A spoken word or phrase
A sign or gesture
A PECS picture or communication card
A button on a speech-generating device

The goal of Functional Communication Training (FCT) is to give the child a more efficient, socially acceptable way to get exactly what the challenging behavior was getting for them.

3. Teach, Practice, and Reinforce

We then systematically teach the new communication skill using:

Modeling
Prompts (verbal, physical, or visual)
Immediate, meaningful reinforcement

If the child uses the new communication response, they quickly receive what they asked for (a break, attention, a preferred item, etc.). Over time, they learn that communication works better than challenging behavior.

4. Gradually Shape Independence

As the child succeeds, we slowly reduce prompts and shape more complex communication—longer phrases, clearer speech, or more independent initiation.

Families in Orange County, California see that when Functional Communication Training (FCT) is explained, modeled, and practiced consistently, it becomes a natural part of everyday life at home, school, and in the community.

FCT in ABA Programs at SBEC

At SBEC, FCT is not a separate service—it’s integrated into our comprehensive ABA therapy model. Our team in Orange County, California uses FCT to support children with:

Autism Spectrum Disorder
ADHD and impulsive behaviors
Intellectual or developmental delays
Language delays
Emotional and behavioral challenges

We combine Functional Communication Training (FCT) with other evidence-based tools such as visual supports, PECS, play-based interventions, and social skills training. We also train parents and caregivers, so the same strategies are used consistently at home.

In the middle of our programs, we often revisit FCT goals to ensure they still fit the child’s needs, especially as language, confidence, and emotional regulation improve.

Insurance, Access, and Support

Our ABA programs that include Functional Communication Training (FCT) are covered by major insurance providers, including:

Anthem Blue Cross
Aetna
Magellan Health
Evernorth Behavioral Health/Cigna
Blue Shield of California

Our team helps families understand coverage options and complete the necessary steps, so care remains as accessible and stress-free as possible.

Serving Orange County Families – and Beyond

SBEC proudly serves families across Orange County, California, offering home-based, school-based, clinic, and telehealth ABA services. Functional Communication Training (FCT) is used in each of these settings to reduce challenging behaviors and build functional language or alternative communication.

In the heart of Orange County, combining Functional Communication Training (FCT) explained clearly with compassionate, culturally aware care allows us to support both local and global communities.

Why Functional Communication Training Matters

When a child gains a new way to say “help,” “stop,” or “I need a break,” everything can change:

Frustration decreases
Family routines become calmer
Learning becomes more accessible
Relationships grow stronger

At SBEC, we believe that Functional Communication Training (FCT) is not just a technique—it’s a path to dignity, understanding, and connection.

Start Your Child’s Communication Journey

If your child struggles with behavior that seems rooted in communication challenges, FCT may be the missing piece. Our team is here to help you understand your options, build a tailored plan, and walk with your family every step of the way.

📞 Call us at (949) 259-8786
📧 Email: Drtorabicounselling@gmail.com

👉 Get a free consultation – Our team provides free initial consultations and culturally sensitive support, including services in Farsi for families who prefer care in their native language. Iranians abroad can get free initial consultation from our bilingual clinicians to explore Functional Communication Training options that fit their child’s needs.