FAQs for Autism, ABA and BES
Understanding 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.
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
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.
Yes, a diagnosis from a Comprehensive Developmental Evaluation by a Qualified Health Care Provider is required to receive ABA therapy.
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
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.
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.
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.
- 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.
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.
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.
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
Yes, we offer therapy at both home and school, provided the school allows therapy to be delivered by external agencies.
Home-based services are available within a 5-mile radius of our office.
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
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.
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.
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
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.
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.