ABA FAQs

ABA (Applied Behavior Analysis) is an evidence-based therapy that uses positive reinforcement and other proven strategies to teach meaningful skills and reduce behaviors that interfere with learning and daily life. ABA is used to teach behavior and adaptive skills in so many contexts, it’s exhaustive to list - but its utility has been demonstrated ubiquitously.  Education can help tremendously in learning how we’re already unknowingly implementing the principles of Behavior Analysis and how to change how we’re using them already to better enrich the environment for teaching.

ABA is often used to support Autistic individuals, but it can benefit people with a variety of developmental and behavioral needs. It is highly individualized, making it effective across ages and ability levels. 

An ABA program begins with an assessment conducted by a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA)®. Based on the results, the BCBA® develops a personalized treatment plan. Sessions may focus on communication, social skills, daily living skills, or behavior reduction, depending on each individual’s needs.  When it comes to Autism Spectrum Disorder, all programs are designed to target these developmental domains and treat the symptoms associated with ASD.

Services can take place in different settings:

• Home – to support family routines and daily life.
  
• Clinic or center – structured environment with trained staff.
  
• School/community – helping with generalization of skills across real-life settings.

Family involvement is a key part of ABA. Caregivers receive training and coaching so strategies can be used consistently across settings, which strengthens progress. 

ABA services are designed and overseen by a BCBA ® (Board Certified Behavior Analyst ®) and may be delivered by trained behavior technicians under BCBA ® supervision.  At So Much to Say, all behavior technicians are also Registered Behavior Technicians ® (RBT ®) or are in the process of becoming Registered.

ABA is data-driven. Behavior technicians collect data during each session, and the BCBA® reviews it regularly to adjust goals and strategies as needed. Families are updated on progress along the way.

The length and intensity of ABA depend on individual needs and medical necessity. Some receive several hours per week, while others benefit from more intensive and comprehensive programs. The BCBA® will recommend a schedule based on assessment results.

Many insurance providers cover ABA therapy for individuals with an Autism diagnosis, though coverage details vary. Our team helps families navigate the approval and authorization process. A prior diagnosis of Autism is required before starting ABA therapy.  If you have questions regarding diagnosis or obtaining a diagnostic evaluation, please reach out and we’d be happy to help guide you through the process.

The process typically includes:

1. Initial contact and intake paperwork.
   
2. Insurance verification and approval.
   
3. Assessment by a BCBA.
   
4. Development of a treatment plan.
   
5. Beginning services with a care team.

Activities of Daily Living, often called ADLs, are the everyday self-care tasks we all do to live as independently as possible. For Autistic individuals and others who benefit from support, learning these skills can make a big difference in confidence, independence, and quality of life. ADLs typically include: Personal hygiene, like brushing teeth, bathing, grooming, and toileting; Dressing, like choosing weather-appropriate clothing and managing fasteners like zippers or buttons; Eating and feeding, like using utensils, trying new foods, and developing healthy mealtime routines.