How to Choose an ABA Therapy Provider: 10 Essential Questions

Finding the Right ABA Provider for Your Child

Choosing an ABA therapy provider is one of the most important decisions you'll make for your child with autism. The quality of ABA services can vary significantly between providers, so it's essential to do your research and ask the right questions.

Why Provider Selection Matters

ABA therapy often involves many hours per week and continues for months or years. The relationship between your family and the therapy team will significantly impact your child's progress and your experience. Taking time to find the right fit is worthwhile.

Essential Questions to Ask Potential Providers

1. What are your staff credentials and experience?

Ask about the qualifications of the BCBAs who will oversee your child's treatment. Inquire about their experience working with children similar to yours in age and needs. Also ask about RBT training and retention rates—high turnover can disrupt treatment consistency.

2. How do you conduct assessments?

Quality providers use standardized assessment tools like the VB-MAPP, ABLLS-R, or AFLS to evaluate your child's skills and create individualized treatment plans. Ask what assessments they use and how long the process takes.

3. What is your treatment approach?

ABA encompasses various techniques. Ask about their primary methods (DTT, NET, PRT, VB) and how they tailor approaches to each child. A good provider should be able to explain their methodology in terms you understand.

4. How much BCBA supervision do you provide?

Adequate supervision is crucial for quality care. Ask about the BCBA-to-client ratio and how often the BCBA will observe sessions, update treatment plans, and meet with you.

5. How do you measure and report progress?

Data collection is central to ABA. Ask how they track progress, what metrics they use, and how often you'll receive reports. Good programs can show you examples of progress reports.

6. What does parent involvement look like?

Effective ABA programs include parent training so you can support your child's progress at home. Ask how parents participate in treatment and what training is provided.

7. What are your current availability and waitlist times?

Many ABA providers have waitlists. Ask about current wait times and whether they offer any services while you wait (like parent training or consultation).

8. How do you handle insurance and billing?

Understand their billing practices, whether they handle insurance authorization, and what out-of-pocket costs to expect. Ask about their process if insurance denies claims.

9. What is your approach to challenging behaviors?

If your child exhibits challenging behaviors, ask how they address them. Quality providers use positive approaches and develop behavior intervention plans based on functional behavior assessments.

10. Can you provide references?

Reputable providers should be willing to connect you with current or past families (with their permission) who can share their experiences.

Red Flags to Watch For

• Guaranteeing specific outcomes or "curing" autism
• Unwillingness to explain their methods or answer questions
• Not conducting comprehensive assessments before starting treatment
• Very high staff turnover rates
• Minimal parent involvement or communication
• Pressure to sign long-term contracts immediately
• Unable to provide credentials or insurance information

Making Your Decision

After gathering information, trust your instincts. The best provider for your family is one that:

• Has qualified, experienced staff
• Uses evidence-based practices
• Communicates openly and treats you as a partner
• Makes you feel comfortable and respected
• Aligns with your family's values and goals