Applied Behavior Analysis FAQ Sheet
What is Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA)?
ABA is a treatment approach based on scientific principles of behavior developed over the past 50 years. It is considered to be the most effective, evidence-based treatment for children diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder and other developmental disorders. There are many different techniques used under the ABA umbrella including, Verbal Behavior (VB), Discrete Trial Teaching (DTT), and Natural Environment Teaching (NET).
Is ABA the right choice for my child?
Determining appropriate services for your child can be difficult for any family. With the variety of programs, services, and approaches available for children with special needs, it can be confusing and frustrating to identify the right program for your child. NSLTC is here to help. To determine if ABA is an appropriate therapy for your child you should start with a recommendation for ABA from your physician or a psychologist. Decisions about level and intensity of services that are appropriate depend on the unique characteristics of your child. If you are interested in finding out more about ABA please feel free to contact the Behavioral Department at our DC office (202) 470-4185.
How will my child be evaluated?
At NSLTC, the approach is to look at the "whole" child. Therefore, the assessment for children diagnosed with Autism and other kinds of special needs looks at all areas of development-- how your child communicates, how your child learns, and how your child interacts with others. This assessment is conducted with family input and typically includes a standardized assessment tool. It can be spread out over the course of a few days depending on the age and ability of your child.
If it is determined that my child is appropriate for ABA therapy, how long will it take to get started?
When a child is newly diagnosed as being on the Autism Spectrum or diagnosed with any type of disability or delay, NSLTC understands families want and need immediate help. We will work to get your child’s case staffed as quickly as possible.
Who is responsible for my child's ABA program?
Each Treatment Program is written and closely monitored by a designated Program Manager (BCBA) who oversees each clients’ program and supervises the technicians responsible for implementing the program. The program manager is responsible for the ongoing success of the ABA program which is measured through daily data collection and analysis. The program manager is responsible for the development and review of progress reports with parents/guardians and providing assistance with IFSP and IEP meetings/review. The Program Manager will provide parent/caregiver training throughout the service period and will be the point of contact for all issues specific to a client’s case.
After the program has been created a team of RBTs work directly with the client implementing the program, taking data, providing parent/guardian instruction/assistance as needed, and maintaining parent/guardian and Program Manager communication.
Additionally, parents/caregivers are important parts of a successful ABA program and will be expected to observe, participate, and help monitor their child’s therapy.
A BCBA (Board Certified Behavior Analyst) is a person who has completed a master’s degree including extensive coursework in ABA, hours of supervised fieldwork or practicum, and passed a competency exam. A BCBA is also required to complete 16 hours of continuing education in ABA per year.
An RBT (Registered Behavior Technician) is a person who has completed at least 40 hours of training in ABA techniques and passed a competency assessment and an examination. After completion all RBT’s must be continually supervised by a BCBA and pass a competency assessment annually. All technicians at NSLTC are RBTs or are in the process of becoming registered.
Will my health insurance pay for ABA services?
NSLTC is currently an in-network ABA provider with HSCSN, DC Early Intervention (Strong Start), Tri-Care, and Med-Star. Some private insurance companies also cover our services. NSLTC may be able to sign a single case agreement with other insurance companies or funding sources, please inquire. Additionally, ABA should qualify for HSA and FLEX plan reimbursement.
ABA is a treatment approach based on scientific principles of behavior developed over the past 50 years. It is considered to be the most effective, evidence-based treatment for children diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder and other developmental disorders. There are many different techniques used under the ABA umbrella including, Verbal Behavior (VB), Discrete Trial Teaching (DTT), and Natural Environment Teaching (NET).
Is ABA the right choice for my child?
Determining appropriate services for your child can be difficult for any family. With the variety of programs, services, and approaches available for children with special needs, it can be confusing and frustrating to identify the right program for your child. NSLTC is here to help. To determine if ABA is an appropriate therapy for your child you should start with a recommendation for ABA from your physician or a psychologist. Decisions about level and intensity of services that are appropriate depend on the unique characteristics of your child. If you are interested in finding out more about ABA please feel free to contact the Behavioral Department at our DC office (202) 470-4185.
How will my child be evaluated?
At NSLTC, the approach is to look at the "whole" child. Therefore, the assessment for children diagnosed with Autism and other kinds of special needs looks at all areas of development-- how your child communicates, how your child learns, and how your child interacts with others. This assessment is conducted with family input and typically includes a standardized assessment tool. It can be spread out over the course of a few days depending on the age and ability of your child.
If it is determined that my child is appropriate for ABA therapy, how long will it take to get started?
When a child is newly diagnosed as being on the Autism Spectrum or diagnosed with any type of disability or delay, NSLTC understands families want and need immediate help. We will work to get your child’s case staffed as quickly as possible.
Who is responsible for my child's ABA program?
Each Treatment Program is written and closely monitored by a designated Program Manager (BCBA) who oversees each clients’ program and supervises the technicians responsible for implementing the program. The program manager is responsible for the ongoing success of the ABA program which is measured through daily data collection and analysis. The program manager is responsible for the development and review of progress reports with parents/guardians and providing assistance with IFSP and IEP meetings/review. The Program Manager will provide parent/caregiver training throughout the service period and will be the point of contact for all issues specific to a client’s case.
After the program has been created a team of RBTs work directly with the client implementing the program, taking data, providing parent/guardian instruction/assistance as needed, and maintaining parent/guardian and Program Manager communication.
Additionally, parents/caregivers are important parts of a successful ABA program and will be expected to observe, participate, and help monitor their child’s therapy.
A BCBA (Board Certified Behavior Analyst) is a person who has completed a master’s degree including extensive coursework in ABA, hours of supervised fieldwork or practicum, and passed a competency exam. A BCBA is also required to complete 16 hours of continuing education in ABA per year.
An RBT (Registered Behavior Technician) is a person who has completed at least 40 hours of training in ABA techniques and passed a competency assessment and an examination. After completion all RBT’s must be continually supervised by a BCBA and pass a competency assessment annually. All technicians at NSLTC are RBTs or are in the process of becoming registered.
Will my health insurance pay for ABA services?
NSLTC is currently an in-network ABA provider with HSCSN, DC Early Intervention (Strong Start), Tri-Care, and Med-Star. Some private insurance companies also cover our services. NSLTC may be able to sign a single case agreement with other insurance companies or funding sources, please inquire. Additionally, ABA should qualify for HSA and FLEX plan reimbursement.