Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) is a scientific approach that is dedicated to the improvement and understanding of human behavior. ABA professionals are dedicated to improving the lives of individuals by making changes in environmental conditions, supported by data, resulting in socially meaningful improvements. Since ABA is a therapeutic approach, it can be focused on precise skill sets and conducted across short periods of time as well as addressing comprehensive deficiencies across a person’s lifetime. All programming and intervention should be tailored specifically to the individual being served. There is no one size fits all.
Depending on the area in which you live, the accessibility and number of provider options vary immensely. Additionally, ABA is available in a variety of settings: In-home, school, and clinic. This makes electing the perfect fit more challenging.
Once you grasp importance of intervention, the research that drives ABA, and range of options of available, parents are often left feeling overwhelmed as to how to proceed. Determining the best fit for your child involves very careful consideration. Forming a list of key questions to ask potential providers is a central first step. Getting answers to these questions is critical in choosing a provider that best aligns with the needs of both your child and your family.
Below you will find a list of questions that you can use as you begin your journey to finding the best provider for your child and family:
Questions about ABA staff:
- Are there board certified behavior analysts (BCBA) on staff?
- What is the difference between a BCBA and a therapist?
- What are the training policies for BCBAs and therapists?
- How much ongoing supervision will therapists receive by a BCBA?
- How often will I be able to see the BCBA assigned to manage my child’s program?
- Are staff required to attend ongoing training or continuing education workshops?
- What is staff turnover frequency?
Questions about parent involvement:
- Is there parent involvement in the treatment sessions?
- How much training will be provided for parents?
- Do parents participate in session with their child?
- What would parents be expected to independently implement at home or in the community?
- What is the appropriate channel for parents to address questions or concerned about interventions observed during treatment?
Questions about safety measures:
- Are staff background checks conducted?
- What measures are in place to prevent abuse?
- How frequently may I observe my child?
- What is the procedure for addressing parental concerns regarding safety?
Questions about the types of service:
- What therapy services are offered?
- Are there services for the client’s family?
- Are group social skill sessions offered?
- If so, what size are the groups?
Questions about skills taught and progress monitoring:
- How is data collected and how frequently?
- How often is this information shared with parents?
- How often will my child’s goals and programs be updated?
- How is it decided which skills will be taught?
- How will services prepare/help my child to be successful in school?
- How do you ensure that skills generalize across people and settings?
- How often do parents meet with the BCBA to discuss progress or changes in therapy?
- What happens if my child isn’t making sufficient progress?
Questions about assessments and tools:
- What assessments are administered to determine my child’s deficits?
- How do you decide what skills to teach?
- Are parents involved in the development of the behavior plan written for their child?
- How often will we receive progress reports and how are they shared?
Questions about therapy sessions:
- How many hours will my child receive?
- What is the session structure we can expect to observe?
- How long will my child continue to receive treatment?
- How is it determined that services are no longer necessary?
Questions about financial responsibilities:
- What does insurance cover and what are parents financially responsible for?
- What are your billing practices?
- Are there parental requirements to purchase equipment for therapy?
- Are there any other expenses we should be aware of?
Don’t be afraid to come prepared with your list of questions. While all ABA providers hold core common beliefs, you will find that strategies and techniques vary among providers. Finding the best fit for your child is fundamental to his/her success with ABA therapy.