How to Choose a Quality ABA Program for Your Child | 5 Essential Factors

Choosing the Right ABA Program: 5 Key Things Every Parent Should Know

If you’ve recently started looking into ABA therapy for your child with autism, you might feel overwhelmed by the number of choices, terms, and decisions you have to make. Not all ABA programs are created equal ... and finding the right one can make a huge difference in your child’s progress.

As a seasoned Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) and a parent who’s been through this journey, I’m here to walk you through the 5 most important things to look for in a quality ABA program: the things that really matter when it comes to results, support, and long-term growth.

This video will help you confidently navigate your options, understand how ABA should work, and avoid some common pitfalls that many families face.

???? What You’ll Learn in This Video:

The difference between large and small ABA providers and how to choose what’s right for your family
Pros and cons of in-home vs. clinic-based ABA therapy
What makes a qualified BCBA or RBT, and what really matters beyond certifications
Why individualized treatment plans, assessments, and parent training are non-negotiable
What data collection, positive reinforcement, and generalization should look like in a strong ABA program
Red flags to watch for (like being put on a waitlist after approval)

???? Helpful Resources:

???? Helpful Links to Learn More About ABA (Applied Behavior Analysis)
What is ABA?

???? BACB – About Behavior Analysis
???? ASAT – Evidence-Based Autism Treatments
???? Autism Speaks – Introduction to ABA

Parent Toolkits & Resources
???? Autism NJ – Parent Guide to ABA
???? Behavior Babe – Parent-Friendly ABA Resources
???? Autism Navigator – Tools for Families

Finding Quality ABA Providers
???? CASP – Find a Verified ABA Provider
???? COPAA – ABA & Your Child's Rights

Research-Based Information
???? National Autism Center – National Standards Report

???? Check State Licensing Requirements for ABA Providers: https://www.bacb.com/u-s-licensure-of-behavior-analysts/

???? FREE Download – A-B-C Behavior Chart: Track triggers, behaviors, and responses to uncover patterns behind your child’s meltdowns. ???? Download here: https://bit.ly/448YK3D

???? List of Common ABA Assessments Used by BCBAs*:
VB-MAPP (The Verbal Behavior Milestones Assessment and Placement Programs)
ABLLS-R (Assessment of Basic Language and Learning Skills-Revised)
Vineland~3 Behavior Adaptive Scales
PDDBI (Pervasive Developmental Disorder Behavior Inventory)

*Please note this is not an exhaustive list of assessments used in ABA.

???? Have a Question?
Drop it in the comments! I read and respond to as many as I can—I know firsthand how overwhelming this process can be, and I’d love to help guide you.

???? Be sure to check out the next video in this series where I explain what a typical ABA session looks like and how to make the most of it.

???? Like this video? Let’s grow together:
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https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLWTS-NplKNDUFb1h-oYf4mCJoWAlJfUar

⏱️ Timestamps:
00:00 - Introduction
00:41 - What is ABA and How Does It Work?
01:29 - Why Choosing the Right ABA Program Is So Important
01:51 - Types of Providers: Big Agency vs. Smaller Practice
03:36 - In-Home vs. Clinic-Based ABA: Pros & Cons
05:37 - Key #1: Qualified, Experienced Staff (BCBA & RBT)
08:19 - Key #2: Assessments and Individualized Treatment
09:57 - What to Know About ABA Authorizations
10:56 - Red Flag: Don’t Get Stuck on a Waitlist After Approval
12:10 - Key #3: Data Collection and Progress Monitoring
13:05 - Key #4: Positive Reinforcement & Behavior Management
15:17 - Behavior Plans: Function, Implementation & Sign-Off
16:17 - Key #5: The Role of Parent Training in ABA
17:55 - Final Thoughts: You’re Not Alone on This Journey

#ABAtherapy #AppliedBehaviorAnalysis #AutismSupport #autismparenting

Disclaimer: Content here is for general guidance and not a substitute for individualized professional advice. Please consult with a licensed provider, BCBA, or autism specialist for support tailored to your specific needs.