What Are the Steps to Starting ABA Therapy? A Guide for Families Navigating an Autism Diagnosis.

If you’ve started noticing signs of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) in your child, it can feel overwhelming knowing what to do next. But don’t worry—you’re not alone, and there is a clear process that can guide you from concern to care. One of the most effective treatments for children with ASD is Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy. Here’s how to get started:

Step 1: Talk to Your Pediatrician

The first step is to bring your concerns to your child’s primary pediatrician. They will listen to your observations and, if warranted, provide a referral for further evaluation by a qualified specialist.

Step 2: Schedule a Comprehensive Diagnostic Evaluation (CDE)

A CDE is required by all insurance companies before they approve ABA services. This evaluation must be conducted by a licensed professional trained in diagnosing developmental disorders, such as:

• Developmental Pediatricians (different from your primary pediatrician)

• Child Neurologists

• Child Psychologists

• Child Psychiatrists

The CDE is a thorough, evidence-based evaluation of your child’s development and behavior. It may include:

• Interviews with parents and teachers

• Diagnostic testing using tools like:

• ADOS-2

• CARS2

• M-CHAT-R

• CSBS

• ADI-R

• Social Communication Questionnaire

• Battelle Developmental Inventory

• Hearing and vision testing

• Genetic and neurological testing, if needed

Step 3: Receive a Diagnosis and Choose an ABA Provider

Once the CDE is complete and a diagnosis is confirmed, the specialist will give you a list of ABA therapy providers. Do your research, choose the one that feels like the best fit for your family, and schedule an intake appointment.

If there’s no waitlist, the ABA provider will schedule your initial assessment quickly.

Step 4: Complete the ABA Assessment

At the intake appointment, a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) will:

• Interview you about your child’s behavior and developmental history

• Observe your child and assess their behavior and skills

• Identify any behavior challenges or developmental delays

Using this information, the BCBA will create a personalized behavior intervention plan that targets areas of concern and supports your child’s growth.

Step 5: Get Insurance Authorization

Insurance approval for ABA services typically involves a two-step process:

1. Request for Initial Assessment Approval

2. Request for Therapy Services Authorization

Insurance companies usually respond within 5–10 business days. Most initial authorizations last 6 months.

Important Tip: Many insurance plans do not cover ABA therapy in school settings, but if it’s needed, it’s still worth advocating for.

Step 6: Begin ABA Therapy

Once approved, therapy sessions can begin. Services are often provided in-home, in-clinic, or sometimes in schools, depending on what’s allowed by your insurance and recommended by your BCBA.

Step 7: Ongoing Reassessment and Progress Monitoring

Before each 6-month authorization period ends, your BCBA will reassess your child’s progress and submit a request for continued services to your insurance company.

ABA services continue for as long as your child is making progress and benefits from the support. When your child meets their treatment goals and shows strong, consistent independence, they may be eligible to “graduate” from services.

Final Thoughts

Starting ABA therapy may seem like a long journey, but each step is a crucial part of getting your child the support they need. With the right team and a personalized plan, your child can make meaningful strides in development, communication, and independence.

If you have questions about this process or need help finding a provider, reach out to our team—we’re here to support you every step of the way.