Aoife Rafter
Founder & Consultant BCBA, IBA
My name is Aoife (pronounced "ee-fa") Rafter, a Board-Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) from Ireland with almost 10 years of experience using Applied Behaviour Analytic (ABA) strategies to teach language and reduce behaviors that interfere with learning. My passion lies in working closely with learners and their families to develop learning programs that not only increase language use in a functional way, but are considerate of family values, individual preferences, expectations and lifestyle. Since relocating to Dubai in 2022, I have continued to refine my approach, now specializing in language development and empowering parents and staff through customized training. Using Skinner’s Analysis of Verbal Behavior, I favor the approach that language is most effectively taught when it is broken down into a series of behaviors or ‘building blocks.’ By ensuring someone has a robust foundation and identifying any gaps in this foundation, it is possible to teach and empower learners to communicate more effectively and utilize language (in whatever form that takes), across all aspects of their lives.​​
Our
Approach
At Solas (pronounced "sul-us")—the Irish word for "light"— We strive to bring clarity and guidance to families navigating the, at times, overwhelming task of seeking support with their child's language development. ​ Using evidence based ABA strategies, our service aims to equip families and professionals with the tools to promote functional language in real contexts —whether it’s increasing vocalizations and speech sounds, communicating wants and needs, or engaging in social conversations—and filling in gaps in the communicative repertoire, to create robust foundations of language. Our mission is to empower families with highly individualized, naturalistic programs and strategies that make addressing language concerns approachable, accessible and collaborative while celebrating and considering individual differences every step of the way.
Who can benefit?
Anyone can require support within specific areas or with overall language development, however, below are some of our regular client base.
Children, teenagers and adults with Autism,
ADHD and other
developmental delays
​Babies and toddlers
who demonstrate delayed speech development
Individuals with social, independence or
behavioral challenges
Services
At Solas, we offer a range of services which can be facilitated in person or online, designed to support language development for learners of all abilities.
Each service is highly individualized and responsive to the unique needs of the learner and their preferences, as well as the preferences of their families and existing team.
Learner skills assessment, program development & continued program supervision is available through our consulting partner.
Beyond Language
At Solas, we understand that language challenges often result in families needing support with other areas of their childs' development. Within the range of service options, targeted language development can be complemented by a wide range of individualized support areas.
Toilet Training
Social Skills
Bedtime Behavior
Increasing Speech Sound Production
Improving the quality of vocalizations
Independence within Activities of Daily Living
Self Management
Schoolwork & Academics
Behavior Management & Reduction​
Book a Free Online
Consultation
Not sure which service is the best fit for you?
​
We offer a free initial consultation to help determine which approach is most suited to your needs.