What to Expect During an Assessment for ABA Services

If you are considering Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy, it is natural to have questions about the assessment process. ABA is a highly effective therapy for individuals with autism and other developmental disorders, and the assessment is the first step in tailoring therapy to your child’s specific needs. Here’s what you can expect during an initial ABA assessment:

1. Initial Consultation: The process typically begins with an initial consultation, where you will speak with a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA). They will gather preliminary information about your concerns, goals, and your child’s history including but not limited to, school/daycare (if applicable) and other services received. This is an opportunity for you to ask questions and discuss expectations.
2. If you and the BCBA mutually agree that your child is a good fit for the program, a request for prior authorization will be made to your insurance. Once received, the in-person assessment is scheduled. If your insurance does not require a prior authorization for assessment, then this step is skipped and you go straight to scheduling the assessment.
3. Assessment: The BCBA will conduct a detailed interview with you to gain more information about your child’s needs. The BCBA will observe your child’s behavior and use standardized assessment tools to collect additional information. A key component of ABA assessment is the functional behavior assessment (FBA), which involves analyzing the causes and consequences of specific behaviors. This helps the BCBA identify the triggers for challenging behavior and develop strategies to address them. Using this information, the BCBA will also make a clinical recommendation for the number of hours of therapy your child will need. All of this information is compiled into a treatment plan that is submitted to your insurance for approval. 
4. After approval, your child’s first day of therapy will be scheduled and details of how to prepare will be discussed with you by a member of our staff.

An ABA assessment is a comprehensive and individualized process that lays the foundation for effective therapy. Expect open communication, a focus on individual needs, and a commitment to achieving the best possible outcomes for your child. If you have additional questions about the assessment process, please fill out the contact form and a member of our staff will get back to you.