A Parent’s Guide: What to Expect When Calling ABA Companies for the First Time
If you’re a parent whose child has recently been diagnosed with autism, you might be considering Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy as a way to help your child reach their full potential. ABA therapy is one of the most researched and effective treatments for autism, but for many parents, the first call to an ABA company can feel overwhelming.
In this blog, we’ll walk you through what to expect when reaching out to ABA therapy providers, from the initial phone call to the first steps of the therapy process. Understanding the process will help ease your worries and give you the confidence to take the next steps in your child's development.
1. The Initial Phone Call: Gathering Information
When you first call an ABA company, expect to speak with a client coordinator or intake specialist. This is a good time to ask questions and share important information about your child’s diagnosis and any current challenges they may be facing. Here are some things you can expect during this conversation:
Introduction to ABA Therapy: The intake specialist will explain the basics of ABA therapy, how it works, and how it can help your child.
Gathering Information: The therapist will ask for details about your child’s diagnosis, any behavioral concerns, and what goals you hope to achieve with therapy.
Insurance and Payment Information: You may need to provide details about your insurance coverage and any payment options available, as many ABA providers work with insurance companies.
It’s a great idea to prepare for this call by having your child’s medical and insurance information ready and thinking about your main questions regarding therapy.
2. Setting Up an Initial Assessment
After your initial call, most ABA companies will schedule an initial assessment with a Board-Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) or a trained assessment team. This assessment is essential for developing a customized treatment plan tailored to your child’s needs.
During the assessment, the BCBA will:
Observe your child: This might happen in your home, at the clinic, or in another familiar setting.
Conduct assessments: These can include skills assessments to identify your child’s strengths and areas of need.
Ask detailed questions: Expect to discuss your child’s behaviors, routines, triggers, communication style, and social interactions. It’s helpful to think about your child’s behavior in advance and keep notes of any challenging behaviors.
This assessment is the foundation for creating an individualized treatment plan that will guide the ABA therapy sessions.
3. Understanding the Treatment Plan and Setting Goals
Once the assessment is complete, the BCBA will develop a personalized treatment plan based on your child’s needs. This plan will outline specific goals for your child, such as improving communication, social skills, or managing challenging behaviors.
Expect the following during this stage:
Goal Setting: You and the BCBA will work together to set achievable goals for your child. These goals will focus on areas that are most important for your child’s development.
Therapy Structure: The BCBA will explain how therapy will be structured, including the frequency of sessions, location (clinic or home-based), and who will be involved in the therapy process.
Family Involvement: ABA therapy often includes family involvement, so you’ll be part of the therapy process. You may be asked to implement certain strategies at home to reinforce what your child is learning during therapy sessions.
4. The First ABA Therapy Session: What to Expect
When therapy begins, expect to see a team of trained therapists working with your child. During the first few sessions, the focus will be on building rapport with your child, establishing routines, and beginning to work on the goals identified in the treatment plan.
Here’s what typically happens during the initial sessions:
Observation and Building Trust: The therapist will spend time getting to know your child, establishing a connection, and making the environment comfortable.
Data Collection: ABA therapy is data-driven, so the therapists will track progress using objective measurements. You’ll receive regular updates on your child’s progress and any adjustments that might be made to the treatment plan.
Parent Training: In many cases, the BCBA will provide parent training to help you support your child’s progress at home. Expect to be introduced to behavioral strategies, tools, and techniques that can help reinforce your child’s skills in everyday situations.
5. Communication and Progress Updates: Staying Informed
Ongoing communication is a key part of the ABA therapy process. After your child starts therapy, you’ll receive regular updates on their progress, including data on how they are meeting their goals. Expect:
Regular Check-ins: Your BCBA will schedule check-ins to discuss your child’s progress and make any necessary adjustments to the treatment plan.
Therapy Adjustments: As your child makes progress, the therapy plan will evolve. Some goals may be met, and new ones will be set.
Family Support: You will continue to be a central part of the process. Expect to be involved in ongoing training and receive support as your child works toward achieving their goals.
6. The Road Ahead: Consistency and Patience
One of the most important things to remember when starting ABA therapy is that it’s a gradual process. Results take time, and consistency is key. Every child progresses at their own pace, and the therapy team will be there to support your child’s development every step of the way.
As a parent, you’ll be a crucial part of the team, working alongside the BCBA and therapists to ensure that your child is receiving the best possible care and support.
Final Thoughts: Taking the First Step with Confidence
Reaching out to an ABA company for the first time can feel like a big step, but it’s one of the best things you can do for your child’s development. By understanding the process—what to expect when making that first phone call, scheduling an assessment, setting goals, and participating in therapy—you’ll be well-prepared to support your child on their journey toward growth and success.
ABA therapy has proven to be a powerful tool for children with autism, and with the right support, your child can thrive. Remember that you’re not alone on this journey—ABA professionals, support networks, and other families are there to help you along the way.
Feeling overwhelmed with ABA or your child’s behaviors? You’re not alone! My 45-Minute Initial Parent Training Call is designed to give you clarity, support, and actionable strategies to help your child thrive. Let’s create a plan together! 💛
