Are all ABA programs the same?

No. As with any other credentialed field, there are differences in each professional’s philosophy, experience, and level of expertise in autism and behavior analysis. In addition, different behavioral agencies have different practices and philosophies regarding their intervention methods and program designs. It is recommended that you contact a prospective agency to learn more about their staff, philosophy, and programs before ever beginning services with them.

What does a typical home session look like? 

Home sessions are typically scheduled for 2 or more hours in duration per session. A team of two to four direct service staff (i.e., Behavior Interventionists) and one supervisor will be assigned to each child’s program. This team approach allows for generalization of the child’s skills across people and minimizes cancellation of sessions due to staff illness or unavailability. Each team works with the child and family to decrease the child’s maladaptive behaviors and increase appropriate behaviors and functional skills during all activities. Based on the child’s individualized needs and goals, portions of every session may consist of structured teaching as well as play-based teaching strategies. Behavior Interventionists also incorporate skill building into naturally occurring activities such as meal time, toileting, and developmentally appropriate play during each session. Data regarding behaviors and skills are collected during each session to determine the child’s progress in meeting goals and objectives.

Who will supervise my child’s program?

Each child’s team typically consists of Behavior Interventionists, a Parent Consultant and/or Program Supervisor, and a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA). Upon the start of services, you will be assigned a Program Supervisor with experience and training in managing behavioral programs. A Director-level staff will also oversee your child’s program.

How long is the assessment process?

A functional behavior assessment (FBA) typically takes 2-3 months to complete, depending on the availability of the family and/or the educational team, as well as the complexity of the child’s behavioral needs. After the assessment report is submitted to the funding agency, it typically takes 2-3 weeks for the services to be authorized. Sage Behavior Services strives to expedite this process whenever possible.

What is a social skills group?

A social skills group (SSG) is a group of similar-aged individuals brought together with the primary focus to build social skills. Such groups are typically facilitated or lead by adults. A variety of social skills may be targeted. A social skills group is structured in such a way that all of the children in the group will have multiple opportunities to target important social skills throughout the session.

How can a social skills group be beneficial for my child?

Many children with autism spectrum disorders demonstrate social skills deficits. Research-based findings indicate that adult- and peer-mediated strategies for teaching social skills have shown success in the past (Weiss and Harris, 2001). The goal of the social skills group at Sage is to help your child build and improve upon their repertoire of social skills through interactions and play with others.

What is a BCBA?

A Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) credential is given to a professional who has met the educational and experience requirements to pass a board exam in behavior analysis. In some states, such as Washington, a BCBA may also become a Licensed Behavior Analyst (LBA). A BCBA, at minimum, has a Master’s degree. A BCBA typically oversees behavioral programs, conducts trainings and consultations to staff, parents, and professionals, as well as conducts functional behavior assessments and skills assessments. For additional information about BCBA’s, please refer to the Behavior Analyst Certification Board website.

How do I get ABA services from Sage?

Sage Behavior Services contracts with a variety of funding sources in California and Washington to provide behavior services to children with disabilities. Feel free to contact us and our trained office staff will help guide you through the process of obtaining ABA services for your child.