Overview
ABA (Applied Behavior Analysis) is a form of therapy that helps children ages 2 to 12 with autism spectrum disorder. ABA therapy uses a one-on-one teaching approach to help children through reinforcement of desired behaviors. Children diagnosed with autism present with a spectrum of strengths and challenges, requiring a spectrum of interventions. When your child begins ABA at TidalHealth Pediatric Development & Therapy, they will receive an individualized treatment plan, customized to their specific needs.
The ABCs of ABA
ABA uses a systematic approach to reduce negative and excess behaviors.
A - Antecedent, or “what happens before,” is the event, action or circumstances that happen before a behavior is witnessed. The ABA therapist works to manipulate the antecedent to promote the desired behavior.
B - Behavior — what we’re working to change. It doesn’t always mean a tantrum or outburst; it could mean a lack of response or mismatched response to the situation.
C - Consequence follows the behavior. It could be a positive or negative consequence, depending on the behavior.
What does ABA help with?
Goals are custom-made for each individual child and meet the child in their current circumstance. Goals may work on one or more of the following skills:
- Communication and language
- Social skills
- Self-care
- Play and leisure
- Motor skills
Getting started with ABA
We’re ready to help make a difference in your child’s life through ABA therapy. Read more about what it takes to get started with ABA therapy services at TidalHealth Pediatric Development & Therapy.
- Diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder (ASD)
To receive ABA therapy, children need to have a diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder (ASD). A formal diagnosis (“F84.0”) must be given by a pediatrician, psychologist or other qualified professional. - Request ABA services
After receiving an ASD diagnosis, request ABA services directly on our website or call 443-978-6020. A referral coordinator will direct you to complete your intake paperwork, which gathers basic info we need to treat your child. The more info you share on these forms, the better. That helps us create an individualized treatment plan for your child. - Verify insurance coverage
After all intake paperwork is completed, we will verify your insurance benefits with your private insurance and/or Medicaid and confirm that you have coverage for ABA services. They will let us know if your plan has coverage limits or restrictions and also provide details on copays or coinsurance, if any. We will make you aware of your ABA benefits before you begin services. - Pre-authorization request
Most insurances and Medicaid require pre-authorization to begin ABA services. We may ask for additional information and documentation to get your child approved for services. Once we receive this approval, your child can receive their ABA evaluation with one of our board-certified behavior analysts (BCBAs). - Initial evaluation and individualized plan of care
Our referral coordinators will schedule an initial evaluation with one of our BCBAs. The BCBA will assess your child and create custom goals to meet the child in their current circumstance. Goals may work on one or more of the following skills: communication and language, social skills, self-care, play and leisure, and/or motor skills. In your child’s ABA evaluation, our BCBAs will determine what time and frequency will work best for your child. Hours for therapy may range from 10 to 35 hours/week. - ABA therapy begins
Your child’s therapy team will be made up of one or more registered behavior technicians (RBTs), who will provide treatment according to your child’s individualized plan of care. Your BCBA will supervise sessions and make changes to the treatment plan as necessary to best help your child. Your BCBA will also work closely with you in family support, to help with skill carryover outside of therapy.
Contact us
Call us today at 443-978-6020 or request an appointment for an ABA therapy evaluation for your child.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about ABA therapy
How often will my child attend ABA?
ABA will be based on your child’s individualized treatment plan. In your child’s ABA evaluation, our board-certified behavior analysts (BCBAs) will determine what time and frequency will work best for your child. Hours for therapy may range from 10-35 hours/week.
Is ABA covered by my insurance?
Yes. Both private insurance plans and Medicaid typically cover ABA therapy. We accept a variety of Medicaid plans and private insurance providers.
Below is a list of insurances we currently accept:
• Medicaid (Delaware and Maryland)
• Highmark BCBS
• United Health Care
• Aetna
• Carefirst
• Optum Behavioral Health
• Tricare East (OT and Speech Only)
Why choose TidalHealth Pediatric Development & Therapy?
Come and witness the difference with our team. Our therapists are passionate about what they do and recognize the importance of collaboration between the therapist, parents and other providers to do what's best for each child. Our incredible treatment spaces offer a wide variety of options for treatment, including individual gyms and classrooms for one-on-one therapy and larger settings where your child can work on socialization and other skills.
Receiving ABA at TidalHealth Pediatric Development & Therapy gives your child the opportunity to also receive other therapeutic services integrated into their day. While at ABA, kids can participate in occupational therapy, speech therapy, physical therapy and/or counseling to enhance their progress toward their goals. Your ABA treatment plan will be tailored to your child based on their needs. We offer 100% in-clinic treatment or our unique hybrid of in-clinic and home-based ABA. TidalHealth Pediatric Development & Therapy is here to provide the best individualized treatment for your child in an incredible setting with world-class therapists.
Want to tour the facility before you commit? No problem. We are happy to provide tours of our treatment spaces. Simply ask our ABA team during the onboarding process and we will arrange it.
