Overview
Applied behavior analysis (ABA) refers to a variety of behavioral health treatment options that are based on the principles of behavior analysis. ABA uses scientifically based techniques for understanding and changing behavior and is the most widely accepted approach to assess and intervene with individuals with autism or other developmental delays. This type of Behavioral Health Treatment is conducted one-on-one, is customized for each person, and is appropriate for individuals of all ages.
Our program is designed to increase communication skills, social skills, self-help skills, play skills and motor skills as well as decrease problem behaviors and increase replacement behaviors. We build on each person’s interests and strengths using structured and natural opportunities to facilitate learning. During 1:1 Behavioral Health Treatment sessions, skills that are useful in everyday life are broken down into easy-to-learn steps, with positive reinforcement and goal-focused approach that meets the unique needs of each individual. At its core, our 1:1 ABA-Based Behavioral Health Treatment program helps individuals function more effectively in their natural environments.
In ABA-Based Behavioral Health Treatment, a Board-Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) oversees treatment of the individual, with direct support typically provided by a behavior interventionist (BI). The BCBA provides oversight through supervisory visits with the BI.
Throughout the process, progress is measured to ensure the teaching approach is working. These routine assessments guide adjustments or modifications to the personalized treatment plan that may be necessary or appropriate to ensure continual progress toward goals. During supervisory visits, the BCBA works with the clinical team and the patient to ensure that the treatment plan is being followed and that the prescribed therapy is moving the individual forward.
Individualized Settings
To ensure the environment where services are delivered best meet the needs to each individual we serve, our programs are available in a variety of settings including:
- Home
- Clinic
- Community
- Telehealth
- Hybrid
Our experts can explain these various environments with you and help determine the most appropriate setting for you. Sessions are scheduled to fit each family’s needs, preferences, and availability.
Who Pays for Care in California
In California, healthcare insurance companies – and the health plans they offer – are regulated by the state and are required to provide coverage for behavioral health services for individuals 21 years of age or under, including coverage for treatment of conditions such as autism.
This means that if your child or other family member has healthcare insurance through a health plan in California, your insurance provider should help you cover the costs for appropriate and necessary treatment for autism and other similar conditions. That’s the good news. But benefits and coverage can vary, and even if your health plan covers treatment for autism, you still need to explore and understand the details of the specific coverage you have. If you have healthcare coverage through your employer, through Covered California or through some other arrangement, it’s important that you contact your insurance provider before beginning treatment to ensure you fully understand the specific coverage provided by your health plan.
Depending on the patient’s age, diagnosis, geographical location or type of insurance coverage in place, care for your child may be available through your local regional center. Regional centers are affiliated with the California Department of Developmental Services (DDS) and in some cases can help coordinate access to state-funded behavioral treatment services for children and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities, including autism and related conditions. To identify and contact your local Regional Center to determine if you qualify for state-funded services, visit https://www.dds.ca.gov/rc.
Our 1:1 ABA-Based Behavioral Health Treatment services are also available under a self-pay arrangement where parents, caregivers or others pay for services directly.
