What Happens Before ABA Therapy Begins? A Step-by-Step Guide for Parents

Before your child’s first ABA therapy session, there are a few important steps that happen behind the scenes. From gathering documents and verifying insurance to completing an assessment and meeting your child’s therapy team, knowing what to expect can make the process feel much more manageable.

At EdenPath ABA, we want families to feel informed throughout the process. Each step helps us learn more about your child and prepare for services that are individualized to their needs and your family’s priorities.

Step 1: Getting Started and Gathering Documents

The first step is reaching out to begin the intake process. Our team will learn more about your child, your family’s needs, and what you are looking for in ABA services.

We will also help gather the information needed to move forward, which may include your child’s diagnostic report, a referral for ABA therapy, and insurance information. If you are unsure what you need, our team can help guide you through the process.

Step 2: Verifying Insurance Coverage

Our team will review your child’s insurance information and determine the requirements for ABA services under your plan.

Insurance requirements can vary, so the process may look a little different for each family. We will keep you informed and let you know if any additional information is needed.

Step 3: Completing the Initial Assessment

Once the necessary information is in place, a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) will complete an initial assessment.

During the assessment, the BCBA will learn more about your child’s strengths, needs, communication, daily routines, and areas where additional support may be helpful. Parents and caregivers are an important part of this process because you know your child best.

Step 4: Creating Your Child’s Treatment Plan

Using information from the assessment and input from your family, the BCBA will develop an individualized treatment plan.

Goals may focus on communication, independence, social and play skills, daily living skills, transitions, or other areas that are important to your child and family.

Step 5: Insurance Authorization

After the assessment and treatment plan are completed, the information may need to be submitted to your child’s insurance provider for authorization.

This step can take some time depending on the insurance provider. Our team will work through the authorization process and keep you informed about what comes next.

Step 6: Meeting Your Team and Beginning ABA Therapy

Once services are ready to begin, your child will be matched with their therapy team, which may include a BCBA and Registered Behavior Technician (RBT).

The first sessions often focus on helping your child become comfortable with their RBT and building a positive relationship. Over time, the therapy team will begin working on individualized goals through activities and routines that are meaningful to your child and family.