General Information About ABA
What is ABA Therapy?
ABA (Applied Behavior Analysis) is a science-based approach to understanding and improving behavior. It focuses on teaching new skills, increasing positive behaviors, and reducing behaviors that may interfere with learning or daily life. ABA is widely used for individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) but can also be effective for other developmental and behavioral challenges.
Who benefits from ABA Therapy?
ABA therapy is primarily used for individuals with autism but can also support people with ADHD, developmental delays, and behavioral challenges. The therapy is individualized, meaning it is tailored to the person’s specific needs, regardless of age or diagnosis.
What skills does ABA focus on?
ABA therapy helps with:
✅ Communication (verbal and non-verbal)
✅ Social skills (playing, turn-taking, making friends)
✅ Daily living skills (toileting, dressing, eating independently)
✅ Academic skills
✅ Behavior reduction (tantrums, aggression, self-injury, etc.)
✅ Executive functioning (following routines, problem-solving)
Providers & Roles
Who provides ABA Therapy?
ABA therapy is typically provided by a team of professionals:
Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) – A master’s or doctoral-level clinician who assesses, develops treatment plans, and supervises therapy.
Registered Behavior Technician (RBT) – A trained therapist who works 1:1 with the client under BCBA supervision.
What is the difference between a BCBA and an RBT?
BCBAs design and supervise treatment plans. They make data-driven decisions to adjust programs as needed.RBTs implement the therapy sessions, using the BCBA’s treatment plan. They are not responsible for making clinical decisions.
Insurance & Approval Process
Does insurance cover ABA Therapy?
Most private insurance and Medicaid plans cover ABA therapy, but coverage depends on the state and the specific plan. Many states have autism insurance mandates requiring coverage. Always check with your provider!
What do I need to get insurance approval for ABA?
Typically, you will need:
✅ An autism diagnosis from a licensed provider (psychologist, developmental pediatrician, etc.)
✅ A referral or prescription for ABA therapy
✅ A comprehensive evaluation by a BCBA
What is a preauthorization (preapproval) for ABA?
Insurance companies often require preauthorization before services begin. This means submitting paperwork (diagnosis, assessment results, treatment plan) for review. If approved, therapy can start.
How long does it take to get approved?
It varies! Some insurance providers approve within 2-4 weeks, while others may take a couple of months. Stay on top of your insurance provider and ABA provider to avoid unnecessary delays.
What if my insurance denies coverage?
You can appeal the decision by providing additional documentation or requesting a peer review with the insurance company’s medical team. A BCBA or an advocate can help with this process.
Therapy Process & Sessions
How many hours of ABA therapy does my child need?
This depends on the individual assessment. Common recommendations:
15-40 hours per week for young children with autism
Lower-intensity programs (5-10 hours per week) for targeted skill-building
What does an ABA session look like?
Sessions vary but often include:
✅ Structured teaching (discrete trial training, naturalistic teaching)
✅ Play-based learning
✅ Social skills practice
✅ Parent training
✅ Data collection to measure progress
How are therapy goals determined?
A BCBA assesses your child and sets individualized goals based on current skills, developmental needs, and parent concerns. Goals might focus on language, behavior management, social skills, or daily living tasks.
Can parents be involved in ABA therapy?
Absolutely! Parent training is a crucial part of ABA. BCBAs often provide guidance and coaching to help parents apply strategies at home. Consistency between therapy and home life improves outcomes.
Behavior Reduction & Interventions
Will ABA help reduce problem behaviors?
Yes! ABA uses strategies to understand why behaviors occur and teaches alternative skills. Instead of simply saying “stop that,” ABA helps replace problem behaviors with more appropriate ones.
What if my child doesn’t like ABA Therapy?
ABA should be fun and engaging! If your child resists, the BCBA will adjust the program to increase motivation and ensure sessions are enjoyable. Therapy should never feel like a punishment.
Does ABA use punishment?
Modern ABA focuses on positive reinforcement rather than punishment. Strategies prioritize teaching new skills instead of just stopping behaviors. If punishment is ever recommended, question it!
How long does it take to get approved?
It varies! Some insurance providers approve within 2-4 weeks, while others may take a couple of months. Stay on top of your insurance provider and ABA provider to avoid unnecessary delays.
What if my insurance denies coverage?
You can appeal the decision by providing additional documentation or requesting a peer review with the insurance company’s medical team. A BCBA or an advocate can help with this process.
Miscellaneous Questions
How long does ABA therapy last?
The length varies. Some children receive ABA for a few years, while others need ongoing support. The goal is to build independence so therapy is no longer needed.
Can ABA be done at home, school, or in a clinic?
Yes! ABA can take place in multiple settings:
🏠 In-home ABA – Good for real-life skill-building and family involvement.
🏫 School-based ABA – Helps with classroom behaviors and social skills.
🏥 Clinic-based ABA – Often more structured, with specialized resources. Right now, Little Bug ABA does not offer Clinic-based services.
How are therapy goals determined?
A BCBA assesses your child and sets individualized goals based on current skills, developmental needs, and parent concerns. Goals might focus on language, behavior management, social skills, or daily living tasks.
What makes a good ABA provider?
Look for:
✅ A qualified BCBA overseeing treatment
✅ A provider who uses positive reinforcement
✅ Parent involvement in therapy
✅ Clear data collection and progress tracking
✅ Ethical, individualized programming