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So my kid was just diagnosed with a developmental disorder and/or recommended ABA services….now what?!
What even is ABA?
ABA is short for Applied Behavior Analysis. Behavior analysis is the science of behavior. In ABA, this science examines the way behaviors are learned and may change over time. ABA is used to reduce challenging or harmful behaviors and increase desired and appropriate behaviors.
More information can be found at BACB (Behavior Analyst Certification Board).
What does ABA look like for me?
Generally, services follow 2 models: early intervention or parent coaching-based services. Early intervention services also include a parent coaching component. Your clinical team will complete an assessment to evaluate what model is best for your child and family.
Early intervention: a behavior technician will work one-on-one with your child in their home environment. Sessions range from 1.5-3 hours each, multiple times per week. Language, social skills, self-advocacy skills, play skills, and adaptive (life) skills are targeted alongside reducing problematic or harmful behaviors. Parent participation and consistency are imperative for lasting behavior change and maintenance of newly acquired skills.
Parent Coaching: you will meet with your child’s behavior consultant 1-2 times per week. During these meetings, your behavior consultant will spend some time teaching you the basic principles of ABA. Together, you will collaborate to come up with a behavior plan. Your behavior consultant will also model how to follow the plan, and your homework will be to follow through outside of meetings.
That sounds great! How do I get started?
In order for your ABA provider to request an assessment authorization for services, you will need to provide:
- Child’s current insurance card for all active policies
- A medical report that details your child’s diagnosis OR a referral form filled out from their pediatrician
- Some basic background information
- A release of information allowing your provider to contact your insurance
I turned in all my paperwork! Now what?
Your provider will verify your insurance information and submit the assessment authorization request. Depending on the insurer, the request may be completed within 2-14 days. Once the request is approved, your provider will schedule the first meeting.
Learn more about BRI’s services and start your assessment today.