FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Do you offer diagnosis of ASD?
Yes, we have a clinical psychologist trained in the diagnosis of ASD to complete a formal diagnosis.
What is ABA?
Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) is a therapeutic approach based on the
principles of learning and behavior. It is commonly used to treat individuals with
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and other developmental disorders. ABA
therapy aims to improve socially significant behaviors by using a systematic
approach to understand and change behavior. This includes behaviors related to
communication, social skills, academics, and daily living skills. Therapists use
positive reinforcement strategies to encourage positive behaviors and decrease
unwanted or harmful behaviors. The effectiveness of ABA is supported by
decades of research, endorsed by the American Academy of Pediatrics, National
Academies of Science, and the Surgeon General.
Does my child need a diagnosis of ASD to begin ABA therapy?
Yes, your child needs an autism diagnosis for ABA to be covered by most
insurance plans. The diagnosis needs to be completed by a developmental
pediatrician, a neurologist, or a clinical psychologist.
I just received my child's diagnosis. What's next?
Begin by calling our office and we will work with you to gather the
Comprehensive Diagnostic Evaluation and your insurance information. Once we
have this, we will verify your insurance benefits and schedule an assessment
with a BCBA.
What happens after the initial assessment?
After the initial assessment, our team will create an individualized treatment
plan for your child based on their unique needs and your family goals. This plan
will outline specific interventions and strategies that are tailored to your child's
strengths and areas of growth. Our scheduler will confirm days and times during
the week that would be best for a recurring schedule. Once we have
determined your child's clinical team, the BCBA will reach out and discuss
opportunities for web-based family training sessions or group onboarding for
new families.
What is an RBT?
A Registered Behavior Technician (RBT) is a paraprofessional who practices
under the supervision of a Board-Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) in the field
of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA). RBTs are responsible for implementing
behavior intervention plans designed by the BCBA, collecting data on client
progress, and providing feedback to the BCBA.
What is a BCBA?
A BCBA is a professional who has been certified by the Behavior Analyst
Certification Board (BACB) to provide behavior analysis services. They are trained to assess behavior, develop individualized treatment plans, supervise
Registered Behavior Technicians (RBTs), and evaluate progress.
Who delivers my child's ABA therapy?
The Registered Behavior Technician (RBT) work directly with clients to
implement the treatment plan goals written by the BCBA. The BCBA will match
up the RBT and child to provide for the best outcomes. The BCBA will supervise
sessions with the client and RBT to ensure treatment efficacy. However, we are
sensitive to any cultural concerns or other needs and will discuss them
individually.
How much do services cost?
- During intake, before assessment, benefits will be verified and coverage
determination shared with you, so you understand all costs. - Commercial insurers and Medicaid generally cover therapy. Your financial
responsibility is dependent upon your specific insurance plan. - Please call our office to discuss any insurance-related questions. We are happy
to collaborate with you to discuss eligibility and help resolve basic insurance or
financial matters.
How often is ABA therapy?
The BCBA will prescribe therapy hours based on the results of the
assessment and treatment plan goals.
- Comprehensive plans address multiple areas of functioning, including cognitive, communicative, social, emotional, adaptive, and maladaptive behaviors resulting in up to 40 hours of therapy per week.
- Focused plans concentrate on specific behaviors or skills that need improvement and usually involve 10-25 hours of therapy per week.
What do your schedules for therapy look like?
We typically provide therapy schedules that occur Monday- Friday, in
the following time blocks: 8:00 am-3:00 pm, 8:00 am-11:00 am, 12:00
pm-3:00 pm, or 4:00 pm-6:00 pm. However, we will discuss this
individually for your child’s needs.
Do you provide services in school?
- If the school will allow services to be implemented in school and it is in alignment with treatment plan goals, we will explore this option.
- The BCBA will collaborate with the teachers and administration to ensure treatment plan goals addressed in therapy generalize to the school setting.
