Starting Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy can feel like a big step for your family. You may have questions about assessments, insurance authorization, scheduling, or how long it will take for your child to begin services. This article will break down every step of the process.
What to Expect When Starting ABA at Lighthouse
Starting Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy can feel like a big step for your family. You may have questions about assessments, insurance authorization, scheduling, or how long it will take for your child to begin services. This article will break down every step of the process.
At Lighthouse, we want the ABA intake process to be clear and straightforward. From your first conversation with our team through your child’s first ABA therapy session, we’ll guide you through each step.
Step 1: Initial Consultation
The process begins when Lighthouse receives an inquiry or referral. Our Practice Manager will contact you to schedule an initial consultation with our Clinical Team. During the consultation, we’ll learn more about your child and family, discuss our approach to ABA therapy, answer questions, and determine whether our services may be an appropriate fit.
Step 2: ABA Intake Paperwork
If we mutually determine that Lighthouse is a good fit for your family, our team will send you the required ABA intake and consent forms. We may also request supporting documentation, including your child’s diagnostic report and referral, to prepare for insurance authorization.
Step 3: Insurance Authorization for the Initial Assessment
Once we receive the required documentation, our billing team will request insurance authorization for the Initial Assessment (IA). You’ll also complete a Vineland assessment, which helps our clinical team better understand your child’s strengths and needs. Insurance requirements and processing times vary by plan. Once we receive authorization, we can schedule the assessment.
Step 4: Initial ABA Assessment & Treatment Plan
Your family will meet with a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) for the Initial Assessment. The BCBA will evaluate your child’s strengths, areas of need, family priorities, and meaningful treatment goals. Using this information, the BCBA will develop an individualized ABA treatment plan and submit it to your insurance provider for authorization of ongoing ABA therapy.
Step 5: Insurance Approval & Scheduling
Once the treatment plan is approved, our Logistics Coordinator will work with your family to establish a recurring ABA therapy schedule. We’ll also finalize your care team, including your lead BCBA and the Registered Behavior Technician (RBT) or RBTs who will work directly with your child.
Step 6: Begin ABA Therapy
Once your schedule and treatment team are in place, ABA therapy begins! Your child will participate in regularly scheduled sessions based on their individualized treatment plan. RBTs provide direct services under BCBA supervision, while our clinical team monitors progress and adjusts treatment as your child’s needs evolve.
Looking for ABA Therapy in Colorado?
If you’re looking for ABA therapy in Colorado, Lighthouse is here to help. We provide individualized Applied Behavior Analysis services based on each client’s unique strengths, needs, and goals. From your first consultation and ABA assessment through treatment planning and ongoing therapy, our team will help guide your family through the process.
Ready to Get Started?
Request a consultation using the button below to learn more about our ABA services, ask questions, or begin the ABA intake process. We'd love to help.
Welcome to Lighthouse. We’re honored to partner with your family.
Take the first step toward lasting change with our integrated approach. Our compassionate team is here to guide you and your family toward healing, growth, and a brighter future.
We work with major insurance providers to make quality care accessible
