How is a treatment plan created?
The treatment plan starts with a comprehensive evaluation to understand a child’s needs, strengths, and challenges. From there, the BCBA creates goals based on the child’s unique profile and any difficult behaviors that need support. These goals are reviewed regularly to track progress and make adjustments as the child grows and changes.
Parents are involved every step of the way. They receive ongoing updates even after the treatment plan is created and have many opportunities to share what you’re seeing at home so the plan truly reflects your child and your family.
Here is an example of what the process looks like at Unity Behavioral Services: What to Expect During ABA Therapy.
What does a typical session look like?
A typical session for a child is designed based on each child’s unique needs but feels like guided play, blending structured tasks with everyday activities to teach practical skills.
How do I prepare my child for ABA therapy?
When your child is starting ABA therapy, there are a few simple ways you can help them feel more comfortable and ready to learn. Three key strategies are: using positive language, keeping daily routines consistent, and providing emotional support.
- Use Positive Language - Talk about sessions as a fun time to learn and grow. Framing therapy in a positive way helps your child feel more relaxed and less pressured, which can make it easier for them to engage and make progress.
- Maintain Consistent Daily Routines - Predictability can make a big difference. Sudden changes or uncertainty can lead to anxiety and make it harder for your child to focus. ABA becomes part of your routine, and when routines are consistent, your child has more mental space to learn new skills.
- Provide Emotional Support - Your child’s feelings of safety, understanding, and confidence in themselves are all rooted in the emotional support from their loved ones. A smooth transition for your child relies on both emotional and environmental preparation.
Transitioning into something new can be challenging for many children with autism, but it becomes much easier when they feel safe, understood, and prepared for what’s coming next.
What questions do I need to ask?
When looking for ABA therapy providers, it’s important to make sure their approach fits your child’s needs, creates a safe environment, and truly includes parents as partners. The top priority for any provider should be helping your child feel safe and ready to learn, so when you meet with potential providers, ask questions to find out if their services are the right fit for your child.
Here are some good ones to start with:
- How do I know if my child needs ABA therapy?
If your child has been diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder or you've noticed challenges with communication, social interaction, daily routines, or behavior regulation, ABA therapy may help. If you're unsure, our team offers free behavior consultations to provide clarity and guide your next steps.
- How many hours of ABA therapy does my child need?
ABA therapy typically ranges from 10 to 40 hours per week, depending on your child's specific developmental goals and assessment results. A Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) will conduct a thorough initial assessment to recommend a personalized plan that balances clinical progress with your family's routine.
- What is the supervision ratio?
The Behavior Analyst Certification Board recommends that an RBT is supervised by a BCBA for at least 5% of their total therapy hours per month. Ask how frequently this happens. While 5% is the minimum, more intentional supervision support is essential for helping RBTs grow and supporting the child. At Unity Behavioral Services, we average 15% per month because we know how valuable the guidance is.
- How are goals set?
Ask if BCBAs consider parent input and how they adapt goals to your child's specific developmental stage and needs.
- How do you handle challenging behaviors?
Clarify strategies for redirecting negative behaviors and verify that they strictly avoid physical punishment or humiliation.
Need more questions? CHECK OUT this article written by our CEO to help parents find the right team.
With the right support team in place, ABA therapy can become a positive, empowering part of your child’s growth and your family’s everyday life. If you have questions or would like help deciding whether ABA is right for your child, our team at Unity Behavioral Services is here to support you every step of the way.
