Receiving an autism diagnosis for your child can be a whirlwind of emotions and a cascade of questions. One of the most common and effective interventions often recommended is Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy. Where do parents start and what can be expected when navigating the steps to begin ABA therapy?
At Powerback Pediatrics, we want to help parents understand the initial steps to getting started with ABA therapy and navigating this new chapter with confidence.
Once you have identified the ABA therapy provider that is right for you and your child, you will reach out to the company to begin the intake process. At Powerback Pediatrics, our operations team is here to help you get your questions answered and streamline the intake process.
Step 1 Intake Paperwork: After your initial call or inquiry, you will complete the intake paperwork to provide the information needed to begin therapy, such as insurance, diagnostic, and contact information.
Step 2 Eligibility and Benefits Check: A member of the Powerback Pediatrics team will reach out to your insurance company to verify the coverage for ABA therapy services and that we are in-network with your plan.
Step 3 Initial Assessment Authorization Request: Powerback Pediatrics will submit a request to the insurance company for them to authorize the initial assessment.
Step 4 Initial Assessment: Once we have the approval from the insurance company, we will schedule the initial assessment. This assessment is where we create the goals for therapy through parent interviews, medical record reviews, observations of the child, and curriculum and skills based assessments. The initial assessment is what helps the BCBA determine the medically necessary number of hours of ABA per week recommended to target the goals.
Step 5 Peer Review and Submission to Insurance: Once the initial treatment plan is written, it goes through a review process with our Clinical Director to ensure that the goals and hours recommendations are appropriate and that it meets the requirements for the insurance company. The treatment plan and hours request are then submitted to the insurance company for treatment authorization approval.
Step 6 Staffing: While we are waiting on the determination of approval from the insurance company, we work to hire, onboard, and train the therapist that will be working 1:1 with your child under the direction and supervision of the BCBA. Behavior Technicians go through 40 hours of training that is directly related to the RBT Task List. They also meet with our Clinical Director, and complete HIPAA, Cultural Competency, and Billing training.
Step 7 Case Open: When we have the authorization approval and staff trained and hired we schedule the case open meeting to begin therapy. In this meeting the BCBA will accompany the Behavior Technician to the home to introduce them to the child and parents. They will begin the pairing process which is where the Behavior Technician will work to get to know the child, their likes and dislikes, and to build rapport and gain instructional control before we begin programming.
The journey to begin ABA therapy can feel long, but the impact of ABA therapy can be significant on your child’s life. Starting ABA therapy is a significant step in your child's journey. By following these steps and working closely with qualified professionals, you can help your child reach their full potential. Remember, you are not alone, and there are many resources available to support you and your family.
At Powerback Pediatrics, you will be paired with a dedicated Client Advocate from day one who will help you navigate this process and answer all of your questions. To get started with ABA Therapy today, fill out our intake form or give us a call 888-269-9876. We are excited to start this journey with you!
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