Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) is a scientific approach to understanding and improving behavior. It involves the systematic application of principles of learning and behavior to effect positive changes in behavior. The science of ABA focuses on identifying variables that impact behaviors, and using established principles to teach and improve skills and replace challenging behaviors.

ABA therapy is an evidence-based approach used in the treatment of autism and other developmental disorders. It uses individualized treatment plans to help individuals build and improve skills such as social, communication, academic, and daily living skills.

ABA therapy can help in the following ways:

• skill development (ABA Therapy can teach your child communication, social, academic, daily living skills, etc.)

• behavior management (ABA Therapy can help identify and reduce problem behaviors your child engages in and teaches alternative, more appropriate behaviors)

• independence and adaptability (ABA Therapy can help your child apply skills in various settings and increase independence)

• parent/caregiver trainings (ABA Therapy can equip you with strategies to support your child in home and in the community)

• quality of life (ABA Therapy can significantly improve the quality of life of your child by fostering essential skills and reducing barriers to success)

Yes! However, insurance companies do not typically cover ABA Therapy services unless the child has received an autism diagnosis from a qualified health professional. If insurance-funded services are not an option, Reaching Hands can initiate a private pay agreement for services funded by your family or a third party.

Reaching Hands serves learners of all skill level aged 18 months to 21 years old. We work with children and adolescents with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), Asperger's Syndrome, Down Syndrome, Developmental Delay, Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD), etc.

Reaching Hands currently accepts the following insurances: Florida Medicaid, Aetna, Cigna, Blue Cross Blue Shield, United Health, and Tricare. If your insurance company is not listed, please call us for more information. We also offer private/self-pay options if your insurance plan does not cover ABA Therapy.

There may be a wait time for starting services with depending on location, availability of client and providers, and insurance coverage. We ask that you reach out to our Service Coordinator to secure a spot on our waitlist. When on our waitlist, the Service Coordinator will continually keep you updated on where your child falls on the list and when we think services can be started. Note: Reaching Hands' waitlist is nonbinding and should wait times be long, we understand families may begin services with other providers.

Below are the steps to get ABA Therapy services with Reaching Hands:

Step 1. Fill out our Get Started Form (Get Started Form link)

Step 2. Set Up Services Our Service Coordinator will work with you to ensure we receive all required documentation to submit to your insurance or other third-party funder(s). While not all funders require them, the following are documents required to apply for ABA Therapy:

- Comprehensive Diagnostic Evaluation report from a qualified health professional

- Referral/prescription for ABA services containing patient name, date of birth, specific ICD10 diagnosis code, reason for referral (ABA therapy, evaluation, and treatment), physician name, physician signature (must be by MD or DO)

- Completed Intake Forms

- Copy of front and back of insurance card(s) Once all documents are received and forms completed, Reaching Hands will verify coverage and eligibility for services and obtain authorization(s) needed for starting services.

Step 3. Assessment Following insurance approval, a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) will schedule an intake visit with you and your child. During the intake process, the BCBA will review relevant records, conduct interviews, observe, and assess your child. The gathered information is used to develop an individualized treatment plan with goals and objectives designed to meet the specific needs of your child. Once completed, this is submitted to insurance or third party payer(s).

Step 4. Treatment Plan Implementation & Ongoing Services Upon approval of treatment plan, a clinical team is assigned to the client. This team team will implement the agreed-upon treatment plan and ensure protocols are being followed and progress is made. Clients’ authorization for ongoing services are resubmitted every 3-6 months in order to continue ABA services at Reaching Hands; services are faded and the client is discharged when goals are met.

Currently, Reaching Hands provides ABA therapy in the home and community settings. Services will also be offered in our ABA center soon.