FAQ

What is ABA Therapy?

Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) is an evidence-based approach to improving the developmental challenges associated with autism.  ABA therapy focuses on human behavior and is able to increase desirable behavior, minimize unwanted behaviors and is a highly efficient way to teach new skills.

How will ABA therapy help my child?

ABA assessment will identify developmental needs identified across dozens of areas. With children on the autism spectrum, behavior and communication are very often areas central to programming.

Other important target areas of ABA may include, but are not exclusive to social, leisure, self-care, organization and executive functioning skills and others, at home and in your community.

Does ABA therapy work for Autism?

ABA is considered an evidence-based best practice treatment by the US Surgeon General and by the American Psychological Association.

“Evidence based” means that ABA has passed scientific tests of its usefulness, quality, and effectiveness. ABA therapy includes many different techniques. All of these techniques focus on antecedents (what happens before a behavior occurs) and on consequences (what happens after the behavior).

More than 20 studies have established that intensive and long-term therapy using ABA principles improves outcomes for many but not all children with autism. “Intensive” and “long term” refer to programs that provide 25 to 40 hours a week of therapy for 1 to 3 years. These studies show gains in intellectual functioning, language development, daily living skills and social functioning. Studies with adults using ABA principles, though fewer in number, show similar benefits.” (Autism Speaks)

When is the best time for my child to begin ABA therapy?

Simply stated: the earlier, the better.

Experts working with children with autism agree that early intervention is critical (Corsello, 2005). Investigators have suggested that children with autism should begin intensive behavioral treatment as early as possible in order to obtain the best possible outcomes. (Green, 1996). “An increasing body of empirical research suggests that early, intensive, structured intervention, based on the principles of applied behavior analysis, is effective in remediating the intellectual, linguistic, and adaptive deficits associated with autism”. (Remington et al., 2007)

Does my child have to have a formal autism diagnosis to get treatment?

Probably.

Benhaven CBS is in-network with Anthem BCBS, United Behavioral Health, Optum, Aetna, Cigna and Medicaid. All of these payer-sources require a diagnosis of Autism in order to access services.

Does Benhaven CBS employ Board Certified Behavior Analysts?

All ABA supervisors at Benhaven CBS are Board Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBA).

To become a BCBA, the following is needed:

• Earn a master’s degree or PhD and complete the required BACB courses sequence and supervision hours
• Pass a national certification exam
• Obtain a state license to practice in the state of Connecticut

ABA therapy programs also involve technicians or registered behavior technicians (RBTs). These staff are provided with training and ongoing supervision by one of our BCBA’s. Technicians work directly with children with autism to practice skills and work toward the individual goals written by the BCBA. Additional information can be obtained on training and responsibilities of BCBA’s and RBT’s at www.BACB.com.

What are your BT/RBT’s qualifications?

Technicians are required to be have completed their Associates Degree and all new BT’s are provided with the coursework and supervision to become a Registered Behavior Technician. Many of our RBT’s have Bachelor’s Degrees, are attending graduate school and/or are being supervised to become BCBA’s. 

Do you perform background checks on your RBT/RBT’s in Training?

Every employee of Benhaven CBS is required to complete and pass a variety of background checks.

What is the age range of children you serve?

Generally 3 – 21 years, although some funding sources will provide service at younger or older ages.

Do you offer parent training?

Yes. Parental involvement and building family capacity is a critical element in any program we design. All Behavior Intervention Plans will contain Family Training Goals.  You will be an important member of our team and we want you to learn as much as possible about working with your own child!

Will my insurance cover ABA therapy?

Each insurance plan is different and must be thoroughly evaluated to determine whether or not coverage for Applied Behavior Analysis is provided. Benhaven CBS staff is happy to navigate the insurance process and provide you with specific information on your plan’s benefits & eligibility.

Which insurance companies are in-network with Benhaven CBS?

We are an in-network provider for BCBS, Aetna, Cigna, United/Optum and Medicaid (Husky).

I have more questions and would like to talk with someone on your clinical staff. Who should I contact?

The Director of Benhaven Children’s Behavioral Services is Arlene Dworkin Kaye. You can contact her at akaye@benhaven.org. Please include your name, a phone number where you can be reached and a brief description of why you are reaching out. Arlene will contact you at her next available opportunity.