ABA Therapy F.A.Q

Frequently Asked Questions About ABA Therapy

What exactly is ABA therapy, and will it help my child?

Think of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy as a science-backed, compassionate approach to help your child learn and thrive. It's not a one-size-fits-all cure; it's a personalized program that utilizes positive reinforcement (such as praise or play) to help your child develop meaningful skills and reduce challenging behaviors. We focus on essentials such as communication, social skills, and daily living routines, with the ultimate goal of helping your child lead a more independent and fulfilling life.

How do I know if my child needs an autism assessment?

It's common to have questions about your child's development. You may notice differences in how they play, communicate, or interact, such as delayed speech, difficulty finding eye contact, or having very strong attachments to specific routines. If you have any concerns, the best first step is a comprehensive autism assessment. Our professional team can provide a clear evaluation, which isn't a scary label, but a path to clarity and the right support for your child.

What does a typical ABA therapy session look like?

This is a great question! It's not all sitting at a table. A session is a dynamic blend of structured learning and natural, play-based activities. Your child's therapist might use a favorite game to teach turn-taking (a social skill), work on communication during snack time, and use focused one-on-one instruction to master a new skill, like tying shoes. Every session is tailored to your child's unique goals and is designed to be both positive and engaging.

I've heard ABA therapy is just repetitive drills. Is that true?

That's a very common concern, and it's based on older, outdated models of ABA. While we do use structured teaching methods, such as Discrete Trial Training (DTT), when it's the most effective way to teach a new, complex skill, it's only one tool in our toolbox. Our modern, compassionate approach is centered on your child's natural interests and play. We want your child to be motivated and happy, not to feel like they're in a drill.

How long will my child need ABA therapy?

There's no set timeline, as every child's journey is unique. The duration of therapy depends entirely on your child's individual needs and the goals your family has. Our BCBA (Board Certified Behavior Analyst) will develop a personalized treatment plan, and we will constantly track progress. Our goal is to equip your child and your family with the skills you need to be successful on your own, rather than keeping you in therapy indefinitely.

What's the difference between center-based and in-home therapy?

We offer both because different environments are right for different goals. Our center-based program in Dallas is excellent for developing social skills, as it offers daily, guided interaction with peers. It's also a structured, distraction-free environment with a full multidisciplinary team on-site. In-home therapy is a great option for working on skills in your child's natural environment (like mealtime or bedtime routines) and for parent coaching. We can help you decide which is the best fit for your family.

What is a BCBA, and who will be working with my child?

A BCBA (Board Certified Behavior Analyst) is the lead architect of your child's therapy program. They are a graduate-level, board-certified expert who conducts the initial assessment, designs the treatment plan, and supervises the entire team. Your child will work directly with a Registered Behavior Technician (RBT), who is a trained and certified professional responsible for implementing the plan and making learning fun every day.

What is my role as a parent in ABA therapy?

You are the most important part of the team! Your involvement is critical to your child's success. We don't just work with your child; we work with you. Through our ABA Parent Training program, we equip you with the tools and strategies to understand your child's behavior, manage challenging moments, and support their ongoing progress at home. We are your partners in this journey.

Does insurance cover ABA therapy services?

In most cases, yes. Most major health insurance plans, including those in Texas, provide coverage for ABA therapy for an autism spectrum disorder (ASD) diagnosis. We understand that navigating insurance can be confusing, so our administrative team is here to assist you. We'll work with you to verify your benefits and understand your coverage before you begin.

We're ready to get started. What's the first step?

The first step is simply getting in touch with us. You can contact our office by phone or complete our online contact form. We'll start with a simple conversation to understand your needs and schedule your child's initial autism assessment. This assessment is the foundation for your child's entire personalized plan. We are here to guide you every step of the way.

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