Our Assessment Process: A Family-Centered ABA Therapy Journey to Success
Preparing to help your child grow with family-based ABA therapy is a huge move. Families that start therapy definitely need to understand the entire assessment process. At Celeration ABA, we can assure you that our assessment process is complete for all parties invoived, and as transparent as the family’s values and needs dictate. Let’s walk through each step of the process to see how our method is different and how it makes a difference for your child.
1. Starting Your Journey: The Initial Connection
Getting started on finding help for your child can be challenging, but we’re here to make it easier and more comfortable for you. By filling out our contact form, you are not just providing your details; you are actually helping yourself and your family out. Our team sets up the first intake appointment within 24 hours of receiving your contact information. This meeting lasts for 30 minutes and gives you an opportunity to discuss your concerns and questions, as well as find out how we can help you.
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To achieve full transparency, we’ve set up a system designed for the waiting list process. Rather than traditional waiting lists where families may feel uninformed, we provide weekly updates as to your position and the anticipated timeframes. This regular communication goes a long way in promoting the wellness of families during the waiting period before therapy.
2. The BCBA Difference: Our Unique Approach
A core element of our program rests with how we approach the delivery of ABA services. While many providers implement a three-tier model where the majority of direct therapy is conducted by Registered Behavior Technicians (RBTs), we prefer the more effective one-tier model, whereby Board Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBAs) work directly with your child and family. This means your child gets the highest level of expertise in every meeting.
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In our process of matching a BCBA with a client, we consider different aspects, such as your child’s needs, the family’s availability, and even their personality. This thorough matching helps build an effective therapeutic relationship right from the beginning. A BCBA not only works as a therapist; they also become a collaborator in the child’s developmental process and addition to the family.
3. Building the Foundation: The Initial Parent Meeting
This one-hour meeting with the parents is the first step towards collaboration and partnership. Conducted at your home or virtually, this meeting goes beyond just collecting information. Your BCBA will try to grasp your family's daily schedule, challenges, and your definition of success. Oftentimes, parents express that they feel truly listened to and understood, especially during the first time lag in their journey.
For example, let’s say your child struggles with a bedtime routine. Your BCBA does not only want to know what happens, but they will also want to understand how the entire family is impacted by that. They will question your goals, concerns, and strategies that you previously employed. Understanding this helps in designing an effective treatment plan that is applicable to your family’s everyday life.
4. Observations That Matter: Understanding Your Child's World
The observation phase involves watching your child in his or her natural setting for at least two sessions. These observations are key for designing positive behavior supports. During this phase, your BCBA does more than simply record behaviors. They are also recognizing your child’s abilities and interests which could allow therapy to be more fun and useful.
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For example, suppose your child has an interest in music. A BCBA can incorporate this to teach communication. If they notice particular times of the day where transitions seem difficult for the child, they will create targeted strategies for those times. By being able to observe the child in real life, there are many solutions available that are practical and can be implemented.
5. Collaborative Planning: Creating Your Child's Roadmap
This meeting is the ultimate goal of all the work done so far. Your BCBA will review their findings and recommendations, but this is not a one-sided presentation. You will have an opportunity to talk about the goals and the treatment plan to make sure it fits your family’s values and realities. This meeting is very informative for parents because it allows them to re-evaluate their child’s behaviors.​
Your treatment plan will include the clinically appropriate number of BCBA hours needed for your child. The single-tier model means your child will not be cared for with a primary RBT who has limited experience but will instead receive top-level care in every session.
6. Ongoing Support: A Partnership for Growth
When therapy starts, your BCBA becomes a very important part of your team. He/She sends updates on progress, changes plans when necessary, and helps with using techniques throughout your daily activities. Such support makes sure that the sessions translate into every domain of your child’s life..
Parents frequently claim that they become more confident when it comes to difficult situations that need to be solved at hand, all thanks to learning strategies together with their BCBA. The skills and techniques learned in therapy are seamlessly incorporated into daily routines, which brings about effective change.
A Call To Begin Your Journey
Every child has their own unique capability, and every family’s path is one of a kind. With the utmost professional assistance provided, our process of evaluation aims to celebrate such differences. If you’re thinking about ABA therapy for your child, do not hesitate to take advantage of our free introductory consultation.
During your consultation, we'll:
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Answer your questions about our assessment process
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Discuss your child's specific needs
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Explain how our one-tier BCBA model benefits your family
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Help you understand what to expect from therapy
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Begin planning your child's path to success
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Don't wait to give your child the support they deserve. Contact us today so we can help your child with the support your family needs. We pride ourselves on excelling in every service we offer. We provide direct BCBA-led services and center our treatments around the family. Allow us to guide you through why our approach helps children achieve their maximum potential. Schedule your consultation with us now, so we can make a difference for your family.
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Together, we can create a bright future for your child, built on understanding, expertise, and unwavering support. Your journey to positive change starts with a single step – let's take it together.
