ABA Therapy Frequently Asked Questions
What is ABA therapy and how does it help children with autism?
Applied Behavior Analysis, or ABA, is an evidence-based approach that helps people with autism build meaningful skills for everyday life. ABA teaches skills across many areas including communication, play, social, transitions, self-care, independence, and daily routines.
How do I know if my child needs ABA therapy?
What age can a child start ABA therapy?
ABA therapy can begin as early as developmental concerns are identified. Research has shown that early intervention can be particularly effective because young children are rapidly developing communication, social, learning, and adaptive skills.
What is the difference between center-based and in-home ABA therapy?
How many hours of ABA therapy does my child need per week?
The number of hours or ABA therapy recommended is based up your child’s needs, assessment results, family goals, insurance authorization, and clinical recommendations. Some children may need more intensive support, while others may need fewer hours focused on specific skills. Hand Over Hand reviews recommendations with each family before services begin.
Will my insurance cover ABA therapy?
What does a typical ABA therapy session look like?
A typical ABA therapy session is tailored to your child’s unique strengths, needs, and goals. Depending on your child’s treatment plan and therapy setting, sessions may focus on developing communication, social, play, and daily living skills, as well as improving transitions, routines, and appropriate behaviors. One-on-one instruction and caregiver coaching is provided and may include play-based learning, social interaction, or group activities. A Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) will oversee your child’s goals and treatment and provide supervision to the behavior technician during ABA therapy.
How long will my child need ABA therapy?
The duration of therapy varies based on your child’s needs and progress. Therapy plans are reviewed regularly and adjusted as your child builds new skills with the intention to reduce the number of hours over time.
How involved will I be in my child’s ABA therapy?
Parents and caregivers are an essential component of any ABA program. Your child will make the most progress from your involvement in conjunction with their clinical team.
What makes Hand over Hand's center-based model different from traditional ABA centers?
At Hand Over Hand, we provide fully developed ABA therapy programs in our own dedicated space within private preschools. This integrated model allows children to receive therapy while participating in a preschool setting alongside neurodivergent and neurotypical peers.
What is a BCBA and what role do they play in my child’s therapy?
A BCBA, or Board Certified Behavior Analyst, helps assess your child’s needs, develop therapy goals, review progress, provide parent training, and guide the clinical team throughout your child’s services.
What qualifications do ABA therapists need?
Behavior therapists, often called Registered Behavior Technicians (RBTs), provide direct ABA therapy services to children under the supervision of a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA). They complete specialized training in ABA principles, demonstrate competency through an assessment, and receive ongoing supervision to ensure high-quality care.
How do I get started with ABA therapy in New Jersey?
You can start by contacting Hand Over Hand’s intake team. They will answer your questions, gather basic information, review documentation, discuss insurance, and help your family understand the next steps for assessment and service recommendations.
