What is ABA?
What is ABA?
Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) is the scientific approach to analyzing and gradually modifying behavior that is socially significant. Currently, ABA therapy is the leading treatment for individuals diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). It aims to increase skills in areas where there are deficits, while decreasing behaviors that may be repetitive or harmful.
While the general long-term goal for most of our learners is to increase their overall level of independence and reduce any problematic behaviors, each of our learners will have very specific and individualized goals that are meant to be met and updated periodically. These goals will be created upon assessing the child, getting to know our learner through direct observation, interviewing caregivers, collaborating with other professionals, and reviewing medical history as well as diagnostic evaluations for the child.
The intensity of treatment will vary depending on your child's individual needs.
What is a BCBA?
A Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) holds a graduate level certification in behavior analysis and may practice independently. Prior to being eligible to sit for the BCBA exam through the Behavior Analyst Certification Board (BACB), they are required to complete practicum, which is the accrual of 1000+ hours of experience under the supervision of an experienced BCBA. Once certified by the BACB, behavior analysts are responsible for assessing an individual's skillset and behavior in order to create a treatment plan that fits their needs. The BCBA is then responsible for monitoring patient progress as well as supervising the behavior technician's who implement the treatment plan.
Will ABA treat my child's autism diagnosis?
While research supports ABA therapy as the leading treatment for individuals diagnosed with ASD, we can never guarantee how each child will respond to treatment. There are many factors that could have an effect on treatment outcome such as comorbidities, age at onset of treatment, caregiver collaboration, etc. Despite not being able to guarantee the best outcome, we are committed to working with you and your family to strive for increased independence and quality of life.
What insurances contract Heartened Families?
Insurances we are contracted with:
Aetna
Anthem Blue Cross
Blue Shield of CA
Cigna
Magellan Healthcare
MHN
If your insurance provider is not listed above, please reach out to us as we are actively working on getting credentialed with other insurances and the list above might not be fully up to date.
For families without insurance coverage, but in need of therapy or parent training, please email us so that we can discuss out of pocket fees and do our best to accommodate you.
How many hours of therapy will my child be recommended per week?
Our BCBA will make a recommendation once their evaluation and intake is complete. As such, therapy hours will vary from child to child based on their individual needs.
What if I don't have insurance or Heartened Families is not contracted with our insurance provider?
We never want a family in need of therapy to go without it because of financial issues. Our staff at Heartened Families would be more than happy to discuss fees and how we can make our services more affordable to you. However, if we cannot come to a formal agreement or we are not able to secure a contract with your insurance provider, we will do our best to refer you to another provider.
What information do you need from me to start services?
You can begin by sending us an email stating you're in need of services. If your child has received a diagnosis, please send us the full diagnostic evaluation along with a front/back picture of your insurance card, full name, and date of birth.
Will my child be put on a waitlist prior to initiating services?
The demand for ABA services and our staff's availability vary from time to time. As such, please reach out to us via email at info@heartenedfamilies.com or by phone at (909) 284-8595 for the most accurate information.