Learning that your child has autism can feel like a tidal wave of emotions crashing over you. While processing these feelings, you’re suddenly confronted with a daunting to-do list and a vast sea of research to navigate in pursuit of services and support.
In the intricate landscape of finding the right therapy for your child, the journey often begins with questions. Questions about qualifications, pathways, and red flags that need to be addressed. At Blossom Children’s Center, our Board Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBAs) understand these concerns intimately. Though there may be numerous ABA therapy options available, choosing the ideal clinic requires a methodical approach to ensure it aligns with your child’s specific needs.
In this blog post, we delve into some of the common queries parents and caregivers have when considering ABA therapy for their child.
Who is qualified to provide services for my child?
Understanding the qualifications of the professionals who will be working with your child is paramount. At Blossom, our team of BCBAs holds advanced degrees and extensive training in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), ensuring that your child receives expert care tailored to their unique needs.
Ensure you’re well-informed about who will be working with your child by asking pertinent questions. Inquire about the training background of the staff at the ABA clinic. What certifications do they possess, and do they engage in ongoing training? Your child and family will be supported by a dedicated team, but understanding their educational background, training, and commitment to continuous learning will guarantee you’re selecting a highly qualified ABA clinic.
When it comes to deciding what clinic to enroll your child in, BCBA, Yousra Nasir states:
I would look at the qualifications of the staff members how many BCBAs are on staff and you know having one is not cutting it, you need more than one or two, really.
Can a Qualified Behavioral Health Professional Provide Valuable Care to Your Child?
The highest standard in ABA therapy is held by Board Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBAs). Achieving this credential involves rigorous training, including a master’s degree in fields such as behavioral therapy, speech therapy, special education, or psychology. Certification mandates completion of ABA therapy courses, passing final exams, and accumulating 1,500 hours of supervised fieldwork.
In order to be a supervisor of a child with autism you do not [have to be a] board certified behavior analyst. A lot of centers you may go to might just have a QBHP (Qualified Behavioral Health Professional) on staff which are fantastic, and they’re quality clinicians and they great but you just want to ensure that those QBHPs are well trained by seasoned BCBAs.
What’s the best pathway for my child?
Every child is unique, which means their pathway to progress will be equally distinct. Our BCBAs work closely with families to develop personalized treatment plans that consider the child’s strengths, challenges, and goals. Whether it’s early intervention, school support, or transitioning to a different environment, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.
What questions should I be asking the team before the initial assessment?
Before embarking on your ABA therapy journey, it’s crucial to ask the right questions. Inquire about the center’s approach to therapy, staff qualifications, and how they tailor programs to meet individual needs. Transparency and communication are key to building a trusting relationship with your therapy team. For more of an extensive list of questions, listen to our podcast Blossoming Together. Two of our BCBAs discuss details on how parents/caregivers can be set up for success. See the latest episode: Episode 07: What to look for when choosing an ABA Center? | BCBA Recommended
When can these therapies start?
Time is of the essence when it comes to early intervention. At Blossom, we understand the urgency of getting started. Our team works diligently to minimize wait times and ensure that children receive the support they need as soon as possible. Each clinic’s timelines may look different, make sure to inquiry early on about preferred wait times.
Red flags to pay attention to when deciding what ABA therapy center to choose
When choosing an ABA therapy center, it’s essential to be vigilant for red flags. Watch out for centers that lack accreditation, transparency, or experienced staff. Additionally, trust your instincts—if something feels off, don’t hesitate to explore other options.
At Blossom Children’s Center, we’re committed to providing exceptional care and support to children and families on their journey with ABA therapy. For more insights and discussions on navigating the world of therapy centers, we invite you to listen to our podcast on Spotify or watch our podcast episodes on YouTube.
Together, let’s blossom towards a brighter future for every child.
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