What is Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA)?
Applied Behavior Analysis is a scientific approach to understanding behavior and how behavior is affected by the environment. ABA uses principles to support learning, a few examples include; positive reinforcement, shaping and prompting. In this context “behavior” refers to actions and skills. It is what we can observe. “Environment” is anything that might change or be changed by one’s behavior.
Will my child benefit?
ABA is endorsed by a number of state and federal agencies, including the U.S. Surgeon General. The degree of success your child achieves is dependent on several variables, including but not limited to; age, overall health and intensity of services. Intensity refers to the number of hours your child is receiving services. If your child was recommended for an intensive program you can expect your child to be receiving approximately 20-35 hours of ABA a week. (* this will be determined during your initial assessment).
If your child has a single focus program meaning working on 1-2 targeted goals the number of hours per week will be reduced.
What can I expect?
During the initial assessment you can expect an in depth parent interview to identify skills, areas of weakness and a discussion of your concerns. Your child will play and interact with a trained therapist during the assessment to assist in the development of goals. Any questions or concerns you have will be addressed during this time.
Once your child starts services their sessions will be a mix of structured systematic teaching and natural environment teaching. Your child’s interests are identified and incorporated into daily sessions to motivate and create a fun learning environment. Data is taken daily and analyzed frequently in order to monitor progress and make modification as needed.
Parents and caregivers will receive instruction to support learning in other environments.
Does insurance cover ABA?
Most insurance companies will cover ABA if your child has a diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder.
At this time Medicaid does not require a diagnosis of autism. For ABA to be covered by Medicaid your doctor will need to supply additional documentation. This is usually a written recommendation for ABA and a copy of the most recent wellness exam.
We are credentialed by the following insurance companies: Medicaid, Blue Cross Blue Shield, Tricare, United Behavioral Health/Optum, and Cigna. Please reach out if you have additional questions.
We will be happy to answer any questions or concerns you have regarding behavior analytic services.