ABA Therapy FAQ for Parents

Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy is an evidence-based treatment approach for children with autism spectrum disorder and other developmental delays. ABA therapy uses proven techniques to increase helpful behaviors and reduce challenging behaviors.

ABA therapy helps children by:

• Improving communication and language skills

• Developing social interaction abilities

• Teaching daily living skills like toilet training and self-care

• Reducing problematic behaviors like tantrums or self-injury

• Building academic and pre-academic skills

Research shows that intensive ABA therapy can lead to significant improvements in cognitive functioning, language development, and adaptive behavior skills.

ABA therapy is the most researched and scientifically-proven treatment for autism spectrum disorder. The Surgeon General and American Academy of Pediatrics both recognize ABA as an effective, evidence-based treatment for autism.

ABA therapy helps children achieve significant improvements in:

• IQ scores and cognitive abilities

• Language and communication skills

• Social skills and peer interactions

• Adaptive behavior and daily living skills

• Reduction in autism symptoms

Early intervention with ABA therapy is crucial for maximizing your child's potential. Research consistently shows that children who start ABA therapy earlier achieve better outcomes.

Most children begin ABA therapy between ages 2-6, but it's never too late to start. The ideal time to begin is:

• Ages 2-4: Optimal window for language development and skill acquisition

• Ages 4-6: Still very effective for building foundation skills

• School age and beyond: Beneficial for specific skill development and behavior management

Even if your child is older, ABA therapy can still provide significant benefits for learning new skills and improving quality of life.

The number of ABA therapy hours your child needs depends on their individual needs, age, and severity of symptoms. A qualified BCBA will assess your child and recommend an appropriate treatment intensity.

Typical ABA therapy schedules include:

• Intensive ABA: 20-25 hours per week (most effective for young children)

• Moderate ABA: 15-25 hours per week

• Focused ABA: 10-15 hours per week (for specific skill targets) |

• Consultation model: 5-10 hours per week with parent training

Your child's therapy hours may be adjusted over time based on their progress and changing needs.

An ABA assessment is a comprehensive evaluation that identifies your child's strengths, needs, and treatment priorities. The assessment process typically includes:

Initial Consultation:

• Review of medical and developmental history

• Parent interview about concerns and goals

• Discussion of family routines and priorities

Direct Assessment:

• Structured observations of your child's behavior

• Skill assessments (communication, social, academic, daily living)

• Preference and reinforcement assessments

• Functional behavior assessment if needed

Assessment Results:

• Detailed report with findings and recommendations

Goals are based on an initial assessment conducted by a BCBA, combined with input from parents or caregivers. Goals are tailored to your child’s strengths, needs, and developmental priorities.

ABA therapy can be provided in multiple settings to best meet your child's needs and help them generalize skills across environments:

Home-based ABA therapy:

• Natural environment for learning daily routines

• Convenient for families

• Easier parent involvement and training

• Reduced travel time and costs

School-based ABA therapy:

• Support for academic and classroom behaviors

• Collaboration with teachers and school staff

• Social skills practice with peers

• Transition support and inclusion goals

While ABA is most commonly used to support individuals with autism, it can also be effective for children with ADHD, developmental delays, speech or behavioral challenges, and other learning differences.

Not at all. While some structured teaching may take place at a table, much of ABA is play-based, naturalistic, and focused on building real-world skills in natural environments.

When choosing an ABA provider, look for qualified professionals with proper credentials and experience:

Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA):

• Master's degree in behavior analysis or related field

• BCBA certification from the Behavior Analyst Certification Board

• Experience working with children with autism

• Ongoing continuing education requirements

Registered Behavior Technician (RBT):

• RBT certification and training

• Direct supervision by a BCBA

• Experience implementing ABA programs

Parent involvement is crucial for maximizing ABA therapy outcomes. Here are ways to support your child's progress at home:

Consistency is key:

• Use the same prompts and reinforcement strategies as the therapy team

• Practice targeted skills throughout daily routines

• Maintain consistent expectations and rules

Create a supportive environment:

• Minimize distractions during practice time

• Set up structured learning opportunities

• Use visual supports and schedules

• Celebrate successes and progress

Stay involved:

• Attend parent training sessions

• Ask questions and request feedback

• Communicate regularly with the therapy team.

ABA therapy is highly individualized. Some children may receive services for a few months, while others benefit from several years of support. Progress is closely monitored, and treatment goals evolve as your child develops new skills.

Long in-network waitlists are unfortunately common, but you don’t have to delay services. Many families in your situation turn to out-of-network providers to begin ABA therapy sooner. The good news is that some insurance plans will offer out-of-network coverage—sometimes even at in-network rates—if they determine that there are no in-network providers available within a reasonable time frame or geographic distance. This is often referred to as a "network inadequacy exception" or "network gap exception."

We recommend calling your insurance company and asking:

If they offer out-of-network reimbursement when timely in-network care isn’t available.

Whether they will issue a gap exception or prior authorization for out-of-network ABA services.

What documentation they need.

While most insurance plans are required to cover ABA therapy for autism under federal and state autism insurance laws, Hope For Ohana is currently an out-of-network provider. We can provide you with superbills for potential reimbursement from your insurance company.

Insurance coverage tips:

• Contact your insurance company to verify out-of-network ABA benefits

• Ask about reimbursement rates for out-of-network providers

• Understand your deductible and out-of-pocket maximum

• Keep all receipts and documentation for reimbursement

Private pay ABA therapy rates typically range from $120-$200 per hour depending on the provider, location, and services offered.