Parent’s Guide on How to Choose ABA Therapist

Choosing the right Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy provider for your child with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a decision that can significantly impact their development and well-being. With numerous ABA providers available, navigating this process can feel overwhelming.

This guide offers a comprehensive framework to help you make informed choices, ensuring you find the best fit for your child's unique needs and goals.

Understanding an ABA Therapist

When choosing an ABA therapy provider, it is important to look for experience and expertise in the field:

Behavior Analyst Certification Board (BACB): A Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) is a therapist who has earned a master's degree in behavior analysis and passed a rigorous certification exam. BCBAs are qualified to design, implement, and supervise ABA therapy programs.
Registered Behavior Technician (RBT): Registered Behavior Technicians (RBTs) work directly with children under the supervision of BCBAs.

Understanding the roles of BCBAs and RBTs in the clinic you are considering, along with their overall experience and track record, can help you determine whether it is a qualified and capable team. Look for professionals who are passionate about their work and committed to providing high-quality ABA therapy tailored to your child's unique needs.

What Are the Qualities of a Good ABA Therapist?

While qualifications and experience are important, the personal qualities of an ABA therapist can significantly impact the effectiveness of treatment and your child's overall experience. Here are some crucial things to look for in a good ABA therapist:

Patience & understanding: They remain calm and supportive, recognizing that children with autism learn at different paces.
Empathy & compassion: They understand the child's perspective and show genuine care, building trust and rapport.
Enthusiasm & energy: Their passion for their work makes learning engaging and fun for the child.
Communication skills: They communicate clearly with parents, listen to concerns, and foster collaboration.
Flexibility & adaptability: They adjust their approach based on the child's progress and needs.
Positive reinforcement: They use positive reinforcement effectively, celebrating successes and motivating the child.
Cultural sensitivity: They respect the child's family and cultural background.
Professionalism & ethics: They adhere to the highest standards of professional conduct and ethical guidelines.

Setting Your Child's Goals for ABA Therapy

The right goals are important for successful ABA therapy. Make sure the goals being set are meaningful, achievable, and tailored to your child’s unique needs.

Understand your child: Carefully observe your child's strengths and challenges, seeking input from professionals who work with them.
Talk to your child: Use age-appropriate language and visual aids, and offer choices to make them feel a part of the process.
Consider interests: Incorporate their favorite activities and focus on skills that are meaningful to them in daily life.
Set specific goals: Create measurable goals, breaking down larger ones into smaller steps, and make sure they are relevant to your child's unique needs.
Collaborate with the therapist: Have open conversations, work together to create goals, and ensure they align with your family's values.
Give your child a voice: Allow them to express their preferences and what they want to learn.
Celebrate achievements: Acknowledge even small successes to build confidence and motivation.
Review and revise: Monitor progress regularly and make adjustments as needed. Be open to revising goals as your child's needs evolve.

By working together with your child and their ABA therapist, you can create a set of goals that truly help them reach vital developmental milestones. Remember, every child with ASD is unique, so tailor the process to their specific needs and interests.

Top 5 Strategies for Choosing an ABA Provider

5 Best Strategies to Choose the Right ABA Therapy Provider

Here are 5 key areas to consider as you evaluate different programs and therapists:

1. Understand the Core Principles of ABA Therapy

ABA therapy is built on a foundation of research and proven practices. Here are the key principles that drive its effectiveness:

Evidence-based interventions: ABA therapy relies on evidence-based interventions, drawing on research and proven practices to guide the treatment process.
Positive reinforcement: ABA therapy utilizes positive reinforcement to motivate and encourage desirable behaviors, helping children learn new skills and reduce problem behaviors.
Data collection: A good ABA provider uses data collection to track your child's progress, measure the effectiveness of interventions, and make ongoing adjustments to the therapy plan.

Finding the right ABA therapist is about more than just credentials. Look for a therapist who possesses the essential personal qualities that make them a good fit for your child's unique needs and personality. A strong relationship between the therapist and the child is vital for successful treatment.

2. Look for Experience and Expertise

Consider the provider's reputation and reviews from other families who have used their services. Inquire about the provider's track record of success. Look for evidence of positive outcomes for children with autism, testimonials from other families, and recognition from reputable organizations.

3. Assess the Provider's Approach and Philosophy

Explore the provider's services to learn more about their approach:

Treatment programs: Inquire about the different treatment programs offered, including early intensive behavioral intervention (EIBI) for younger children and programs for specific age groups or skill areas (e.g., toilet training, verbal communication, social skills).
Therapy techniques: Ask about the specific ABA techniques used, such as discrete trial training, pivotal response training, natural environment training, and functional behavior analysis.

A good ABA provider prioritizes individualized treatment plans tailored to your child's specific needs and goals and offers parent involvement to equip parents with the skills and strategies to support their child's progress between therapy sessions. The therapist should create a positive and supportive environment to develop their communication skills, socialization, and self-care skills and make getting ready for school easier.

Assess the Provider's Approach and Philosophy

4. Consider the Provider's Location and Availability

Look for providers located conveniently for you and your family, minimizing travel time and ensuring easy access to therapy sessions. Consider the provider's flexibility in scheduling, ensuring they can accommodate your child's needs and your family's commitments. Inquire about the availability of in-home ABA therapy if that is a preferred option for your family.

5. Check Insurance Coverage and Financial Aspects

Confirm that the provider accepts your child's insurance plan and understands any coverage limitations or co-pays. Inquire about any out-of-pocket costs, such as co-pays, deductibles, or fees for additional services. Ask about any financial assistance programs or payment plans offered by the provider.

At Rise Up For Autism, we are passionate about helping children with autism enjoy their everyday lives. We prioritize individualized treatment plans, family involvement, and effective communication and collaboration.

Rise Up For Autism — Your Perfect ABA Therapy Provider in Illinois

Choosing the right ABA therapy provider is an important decision. By carefully considering the factors outlined in this guide and seeking a provider who aligns with your family's values and goals, you can help your child access effective treatment and make significant improvements to their quality of life.

Our Rise Up For Autism team is ready and eager to meet your family in Illinois. We are committed to helping families navigate autism and access high-quality ABA therapy. Contact us at (630) 300-3400 to learn more about our team and goals!

FAQ

How to tell if an ABA is working?

Look for signs of progress in areas targeted by therapy, like improved communication, social skills, or reduced problem behaviors. Track your child's progress through data collection and discuss observations with the ABA therapist.

What makes a good ABA clinic?

A good ABA clinic prioritizes individualized treatment plans, strong communication with families, and a positive learning environment. They also have qualified professionals (BCBAs and RBTs) who use evidence-based methods and are committed to your child's success.

How do I know if my child is comfortable with their ABA therapist?

Observe your child's interactions with the therapist. Are they engaged and responsive? Do they seem relaxed and happy during therapy sessions? Talk to your child about their experiences to get their perspective.

What if my child does not like their ABA therapist?

Openly discuss your concerns with the ABA clinic. They may be able to adjust the therapy approach or assign a different therapist. Remember, a good ABA provider will prioritize your child's well-being and make changes as needed.

How stressful is ABA therapy?

ABA therapy can sometimes be challenging, especially when addressing new skills or managing challenging behaviors. However, a good ABA provider uses positive reinforcement and engaging techniques to make learning fun and motivating. Openly communicate your child's stress levels with the therapy team.

How to Choose the Right ABA Therapy Provider for Your Child