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FAQs for Autism, ABA and BES ​

Navigating a diagnosis or potential diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) can be overwhelming, and it’s completely normal to have a multitude of questions. At BES, we want you to feel confident and informed every step of the way. There are no silly questions here—every inquiry is important because it helps us better support your child and your family. Below are some of the most common questions we receive about our ABA therapy services, along with detailed answers to help you make informed decisions about your child’s care.

Understanding Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)

What is Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)?

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a developmental disorder that affects communication, behavior, and social interaction. It is called a “spectrum” because there is a wide range of symptoms and levels of severity. Early diagnosis and intervention are crucial for improving outcomes.

How do I know if my child might have ASD?

Children with ASD may exhibit various signs, including delayed speech and language skills, repetitive behaviors, difficulty with social interactions, and unusual interests or activities. If you have concerns about your child’s development, it’s important to consult with a qualified healthcare professional for a comprehensive evaluation.

Getting Started with ABA Therapy

What documents do I need to get started with ABA therapy?

To begin ABA therapy, your child must have undergone a Comprehensive Developmental Evaluation by a qualified healthcare professional and received a diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorder. This documentation allows us to request authorization for an assessment. A BCBA will then assess your child and submit a report with recommended treatments, which will be approved or denied by your insurance company. 

Does my child need diagnostic testing?

Yes, a diagnosis from a Comprehensive Developmental Evaluation by a Qualified Health Care Provider is required to receive ABA therapy.

How early can a child start ABA therapy, and is there an upper age limit?

Children can start ABA therapy as early as age 2. There is no strict upper age limit; it is determined by the client’s needs and availability.

Therapy Sessions and Treatment Plans

What should I expect during my child's first few ABA sessions?

During the initial ABA sessions, the therapist will focus on building rapport with your child, observing their behavior, and understanding their specific needs. These sessions are structured but flexible, allowing your child to become comfortable with the therapist and setting the stage for effective learning and progress.

What is the ratio of therapists to children during sessions?

At a minimum, we ensure a one-to-one ratio. In many cases, your child will have the support of two therapists, such as a Registered Behavior Technician (RBT) and a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) or Lead RBT.

How long are ABA therapy sessions and how often are they scheduled?

The duration and frequency of ABA therapy sessions are tailored to each child’s unique needs. ABA therapy can range from as little as 10 hours per week (about 2 hours per day, 5 days per week) to as much as 30 hours per week (around 6 hours per day, 5 days per week). This flexibility allows us to provide the most effective support for your child’s development.

What types of interventions and techniques are used in ABA therapy?
ABA therapy employs a wide range of interventions and techniques tailored to each child’s needs. These include:
  • Discrete Trial Training (DTT): Breaking down skills into small components and teaching them step by step.
  • Natural Environment Teaching (NET): Teaching skills within the child’s natural environment.
  • Pivotal Response Treatment (PRT): Targeting key areas of development for broad improvements.
  • Task Analysis and Chaining: Breaking down complex tasks and teaching them sequentially.
  • Modeling and Imitation: Encouraging the child to imitate desired behaviors.
  • Reinforcement Systems: Using positive reinforcement to encourage desired behaviors.
  • Prompting and Fading: Providing cues to help the child complete tasks, gradually reducing assistance.
  • Social Skills Training: Teaching appropriate social behaviors through role-playing and peer interaction.
  • Communication Interventions: Using methods like the Picture Exchange Communication System (PECS) to help with communication.
  • Behavioral Interventions: Addressing challenging behaviors by identifying triggers and implementing appropriate strategies. 
How is progress measured and communicated to parents, and how is the treatment adjusted over time?

Progress is continuously monitored by BCBAs, who analyze data and adjust the treatment plan as needed. This information is shared with parents during monthly coaching meetings and through weekly notes.

What happens if my child isn't making progress?

If progress is slow, we’ll make adjustments to the treatment plan, such as changing techniques or setting new goals. We work closely with you to ensure any changes align with your insights and observations at home.

Are parents allowed to observe therapy sessions?

Yes, parents can observe their child’s ABA therapy sessions, especially during the initial stages. We offer the option to watch through an observation window to minimize distractions. While regular in-person observation is discouraged to prevent interference with the child’s progress, parental involvement is encouraged through parent training sessions with the BCBA.

Service Locations and Scheduling

Do you provide therapy at school and home?

Yes, we offer therapy at both home and school, provided the school allows therapy to be delivered by external agencies.

What is your service area for home-based services?

Home-based services are available within a 5-mile radius of our office.

What ABA schedule options are available?

For clinic-based therapy, sessions are available at 9:00 am, 2:00 pm, and 4:00 pm. We require a minimum of 10 hours per week for ABA clients. Counseling sessions depend on the availability of both the client and therapist.

Insurance and Costs

What insurances do you accept?

We are in-network with CareFirst BlueCross Blue Shield, Aetna, Johns Hopkins, MD Medicaid, and DC Medicaid. We also work with other insurance plans if the client has out-of-network benefits.

What are the costs involved, and does insurance cover ABA therapy?

The cost of ABA therapy varies based on the intensity and duration of treatment. Most insurance plans cover a significant portion of ABA therapy costs, though coverage levels differ between insurance companies and specific plans. We will provide parameters on these costs once insurance verification is completed. However, it is ultimately the client’s responsibility to understand their insurance coverage and financial obligations.

Are there resources available for financial assistance?

Yes, families in Maryland may be eligible for various support programs, including the Maryland Children’s Health Insurance Program (MCHP), the Autism Waiver Program, and Low Intensity Support Services (LISS) funding. Check out our resources page

Our Team

Who provides the services, and what is the difference between an RBT and a BCBA?

At BES, our ABA services are delivered by a team of highly trained professionals, primarily consisting of Registered Behavior Technicians (RBTs) and Board Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBAs). Here’s how they differ:

●       Registered Behavior Technicians (RBTs): RBTs are trained professionals who work directly with clients, implementing treatment plans designed by the BCBA. They conduct daily therapy sessions, collect data on the client’s progress, and ensure that strategies and interventions are consistently applied. RBTs work under the supervision of a BCBA to ensure effective therapy aligned with the client’s needs.

●       Board Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBAs): BCBAs are clinicians responsible for assessing the client’s behavior, developing individualized treatment plans, and overseeing their implementation. They conduct initial assessments, design interventions, and adjust plans based on data collected during therapy. BCBAs also provide supervision and training to RBTs and collaborate closely with parents to achieve treatment goals. 
 

Our counseling and diagnostic services are delivered by our mental health team. The mental health team consists of psychologists, licensed clinical social workers, and licensed clinical professional counselors. Our psychologists specialize in comprehensive psychological evaluations, including the assessment and diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). They also offer counseling services to support both individuals and families. Our Licensed Clinical Social Workers (LCSWs) and Licensed Clinical Professional Counselors (LCPCs) provide expert counseling, delivering personalized support tailored to each client’s unique needs. Together, our team is dedicated to providing high-quality care, helping clients achieve their personal and therapeutic goals.

Thank you for considering Behavioral & Educational Solutions. We are committed to providing the highest quality care and support for children with ASD and their families.  Feel free to contact us  with any additional questions or to learn more about our services.   

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