ABA Therapy in Englewood, CO

Welcome to Englewood

Welcome to Englewood, Colorado! If you're reading this, you're likely exploring Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy for your child, and you've come to the right place. Navigating the world of autism services can feel overwhelming, but this guide is designed to provide you with the information and resources you need to make informed decisions for your family right here in our community.

Englewood is a vibrant and family-friendly city, and we understand the unique challenges and opportunities that come with raising a child with autism or other developmental disabilities. ABA therapy offers a proven, evidence-based approach to helping children develop essential skills, reduce challenging behaviors, and reach their full potential. It's not a "one-size-fits-all" solution, but rather a highly individualized and data-driven approach tailored to your child's specific needs and goals.

The benefits of ABA therapy extend beyond just the child receiving services. It empowers families with the tools and strategies they need to support their child's growth and development at home, in school, and within the Englewood community. Through increased communication, social skills, and adaptive behaviors, ABA therapy can open doors to greater independence, inclusion, and a higher quality of life for both your child and your family. Whether you're just starting your research or are already familiar with ABA, this guide will provide you with valuable insights into finding the right providers, understanding insurance coverage, and accessing local support systems right here in Englewood and the surrounding Denver metro area. We're glad you're here, and we're committed to helping you navigate this journey with confidence and support.

Understanding ABA Therapy

Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy is a scientific approach to understanding and changing behavior. It's based on the principles of learning theory, which explains how behaviors are acquired, maintained, and modified through environmental interactions. ABA is widely recognized as an effective treatment for individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), but it can also be beneficial for individuals with other developmental disabilities, behavioral challenges, and learning difficulties.

At its core, ABA therapy involves breaking down complex skills into smaller, manageable steps and using positive reinforcement to motivate learning. This means that when a child demonstrates a desired behavior, such as making eye contact or asking for help, they receive a reward or positive consequence, making it more likely that they will repeat that behavior in the future. Conversely, if a child engages in a challenging behavior, such as aggression or self-injury, ABA therapists work to identify the triggers for the behavior and develop strategies to prevent it from occurring or to teach alternative, more appropriate behaviors.

Several methods are commonly used in ABA therapy, including:

• Discrete Trial Training (DTT): This involves teaching skills in a structured, one-on-one setting using repeated trials. Each trial consists of an antecedent (instruction or cue), a behavior (the child's response), and a consequence (reinforcement or correction).
• Natural Environment Teaching (NET): This involves teaching skills in natural settings, such as the home, school, or community. NET focuses on using the child's interests and motivations to create opportunities for learning.
• Verbal Behavior (VB): This approach focuses on teaching communication skills by breaking down language into its component parts, such as manding (requesting), tacting (labeling), and intraverbals (answering questions).
• Pivotal Response Treatment (PRT): PRT targets pivotal areas of development, such as motivation, self-initiation, and self-management, with the goal of producing widespread improvements in other areas of functioning.

The effectiveness of ABA therapy has been demonstrated in hundreds of research studies. These studies have shown that ABA can lead to significant improvements in communication, social skills, adaptive behaviors, and academic performance. Early and intensive ABA therapy (25-40 hours per week) is often recommended for young children with autism, but ABA can be beneficial at any age and for individuals with a wide range of abilities. While the exact outcomes vary from child to child, based on their individual needs and capabilities, the data-driven and highly personalized nature of ABA therapy ensures progress is tracked and programs are modified to ensure continued progress.

Insurance & Coverage in CO

Navigating insurance coverage for ABA therapy in Colorado can feel like a complex puzzle, but understanding your rights and options is crucial to accessing the services your child needs. Colorado has strong laws in place to ensure that ABA therapy is covered by most insurance plans.

Colorado Revised Statutes § 10-16-104.9 mandates that health insurance policies issued in Colorado provide coverage for the diagnosis and treatment of autism spectrum disorder. This law applies to both individual and group health insurance plans, including those offered by employers. However, it's important to note that self-funded plans (often used by larger employers) may be exempt from state mandates. It's always best to check with your specific insurance provider to confirm your coverage.

Under the Colorado law, covered services include, but are not limited to, ABA therapy, speech therapy, occupational therapy, and physical therapy. The law also specifies that there should be no age caps or limitations on the number of hours of ABA therapy that can be covered.

Understanding Your Insurance Plan:

• Check Your Policy: Review your insurance policy documents carefully to understand your coverage for ABA therapy. Look for specific information about autism spectrum disorder, behavioral health services, and applied behavior analysis.
• Contact Your Insurance Provider: Call your insurance provider directly and ask about your coverage for ABA therapy. Be sure to ask about:
  • Deductibles: How much you need to pay out-of-pocket before your insurance starts covering services.
  • Co-pays: The fixed amount you pay for each therapy session.
  • Co-insurance: The percentage of the cost of services you are responsible for after you meet your deductible.
  • Out-of-pocket maximum: The maximum amount you will pay for covered healthcare services in a plan year.
  • Prior authorization requirements: Whether you need to get approval from your insurance company before starting ABA therapy.
  • Network providers: Whether you need to use providers who are in your insurance network.

Common Insurance Companies in Colorado:

Some of the major insurance companies that operate in Colorado include:

• Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield
• UnitedHealthcare
• Cigna
• Kaiser Permanente
• Aetna
• Rocky Mountain Health Plans

Each of these companies may have different plans and coverage options, so it's important to check with your specific provider.

Costs of ABA Therapy:

The cost of ABA therapy can vary depending on the provider, the intensity of therapy, and your insurance coverage. In Colorado, ABA therapy can range from $80 to $150 per hour. Intensive ABA therapy (25-40 hours per week) can cost several thousand dollars per month. However, with proper insurance coverage, your out-of-pocket costs can be significantly reduced.

Medicaid:

Children with autism who meet certain income and disability requirements may be eligible for Medicaid. Medicaid in Colorado (Health First Colorado) provides comprehensive coverage for ABA therapy and other services for eligible children.

Appealing Denials:

If your insurance company denies coverage for ABA therapy, you have the right to appeal their decision. The Colorado Division of Insurance provides resources and information on how to file an appeal.

Understanding your insurance coverage is a critical step in accessing ABA therapy for your child in Englewood, CO. Don't hesitate to contact your insurance provider, a qualified ABA provider, or a local advocacy organization for assistance in navigating the insurance process.

Finding the Right Provider

Choosing the right ABA therapy provider for your child is one of the most important decisions you'll make. The provider will play a significant role in your child's development and progress, so it's essential to find a team that is qualified, experienced, and a good fit for your family.

Qualifications and Credentials:

• Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA): The BCBA is the lead therapist who designs and supervises the ABA therapy program. Look for a BCBA who is certified by the Behavior Analyst Certification Board (BACB). You can verify a BCBA's certification on the BACB website. Ensure the BCBA is licensed to practice in Colorado.
• Registered Behavior Technician (RBT): RBTs are the therapists who work directly with your child under the supervision of the BCBA. They implement the therapy program and collect data on your child's progress. Ensure the RBTs are certified by the BACB and have received proper training.

Experience and Expertise:

• Experience with Autism: Look for a provider who has extensive experience working with children with autism spectrum disorder.
• Experience with Your Child's Specific Needs: Consider whether the provider has experience working with children with similar needs and challenges as your child. For example, if your child has communication difficulties, look for a provider who specializes in verbal behavior therapy.
• Experience with Your Child's Age Group: Some providers specialize in working with specific age groups, such as early intervention or adolescents.

Program Philosophy and Approach:

• Individualized Treatment Plans: Ensure that the provider develops individualized treatment plans that are tailored to your child's specific needs and goals.
• Data-Driven Approach: The provider should use data to track your child's progress and make adjustments to the treatment plan as needed.
• Family Involvement: The provider should actively involve your family in the therapy process and provide training and support to help you implement strategies at home.
• Positive Reinforcement: The provider should use positive reinforcement techniques to motivate your child and promote learning.
• Collaboration: The provider should be willing to collaborate with other professionals involved in your child's care, such as speech therapists, occupational therapists, and teachers.

Practical Considerations:

• Location: Consider the location of the provider and whether it is convenient for you to travel to therapy sessions. There are several ABA therapy providers in Englewood and the surrounding Denver metro area.
• Scheduling: Check the provider's availability and whether they can accommodate your scheduling needs.
• Cost and Insurance Coverage: Discuss the cost of therapy with the provider and confirm that they accept your insurance plan.
• Communication: The provider should be responsive to your questions and concerns and communicate with you regularly about your child's progress.

Questions to Ask Potential Providers:

• What are your qualifications and experience?
• What is your program philosophy and approach?
• How do you develop individualized treatment plans?
• How do you track progress and make adjustments to the treatment plan?
• How do you involve families in the therapy process?
• What is the cost of therapy and what insurance plans do you accept?
• Can I speak with other parents who have worked with you?

Finding Providers in Englewood:

• Referrals: Ask your pediatrician, therapist, or other professionals for referrals to ABA therapy providers in Englewood.
• Online Directories: Search online directories such as the Behavior Analyst Certification Board (BACB) website or Autism Speaks resource guide.
• Local Support Groups: Contact local autism support groups for recommendations.

Choosing the right ABA therapy provider is a significant investment in your child's future. Take the time to research your options, ask questions, and find a provider who is a good fit for your family.

Getting Started with ABA Therapy

Once you've chosen an ABA therapy provider in Englewood, CO, the next step is to get started with the therapy process. Here's a practical guide to help you navigate the initial stages:

1. Initial Assessment:

The first step is usually an initial assessment conducted by the BCBA. This assessment involves gathering information about your child's developmental history, current skills, and challenging behaviors. The BCBA may use standardized assessment tools, such as the Vineland Adaptive Behavior Scales or the Assessment of Basic Language and Learning Skills-Revised (ABLLS-R), to evaluate your child's abilities. They may also observe your child in different settings, such as at home or at school. The assessment will help the BCBA understand your child's strengths and weaknesses and identify areas where ABA therapy can be most beneficial.

2. Treatment Plan Development:

Based on the results of the initial assessment, the BCBA will develop an individualized treatment plan for your child. The treatment plan will outline specific goals and objectives for therapy, as well as the strategies and techniques that will be used to achieve those goals. The treatment plan should be developed in collaboration with you and should take into account your family's priorities and values. It should include measurable goals that can be tracked over time to monitor progress.

3. Scheduling and Logistics:

Once the treatment plan is developed, you'll need to schedule therapy sessions. The frequency and duration of therapy sessions will depend on your child's needs and the recommendations of the BCBA. Intensive ABA therapy typically involves 25-40 hours per week, while less intensive programs may involve fewer hours. You'll also need to discuss logistics such as the location of therapy sessions (e.g., at home, at a clinic, or at school), the schedule of sessions, and any transportation arrangements.

4. Implementing the Therapy Program:

The ABA therapy program will be implemented by RBTs under the supervision of the BCBA. The RBTs will work directly with your child to teach new skills, reduce challenging behaviors, and generalize skills to different settings. The BCBA will provide ongoing supervision and training to the RBTs and will regularly monitor your child's progress.

5. Data Collection and Progress Monitoring:

Data collection is an essential part of ABA therapy. The RBTs will collect data on your child's performance during therapy sessions. The BCBA will use this data to track your child's progress, identify areas where adjustments need to be made to the treatment plan, and ensure that therapy is effective.

6. Family Training and Support:

Family involvement is critical to the success of ABA therapy. The BCBA will provide training and support to you and other family members to help you implement strategies at home and reinforce your child's learning. This may involve teaching you how to use positive reinforcement, how to manage challenging behaviors, and how to promote communication and social skills.

7. Ongoing Communication:

Open and ongoing communication with the ABA therapy team is essential. You should feel comfortable asking questions, expressing concerns, and providing feedback about your child's progress. Regular meetings with the BCBA will help you stay informed about your child's progress and ensure that the treatment plan is meeting your family's needs.

Starting ABA therapy can be a significant step for your child and your family. By understanding the process and actively participating in therapy, you can help your child achieve their full potential.

Local Resources & Support

Englewood and the greater Denver metropolitan area offer a wealth of resources and support for families raising children with autism and other developmental disabilities. Connecting with these resources can provide valuable information, guidance, and a sense of community.

• The Autism Society of Colorado (ASC): This statewide organization provides information, support, and advocacy for individuals with autism and their families. They offer parent support groups, educational workshops, and legislative advocacy. They have resources specific to the Denver metro area. (www.autismcolorado.org)

• Developmental Pathways: This community-centered board provides services and supports to individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities in Arapahoe and Douglas Counties, which includes Englewood. They offer early intervention services, case management, and community living supports.

• Rocky Mountain Human Services (RMHS): RMHS provides services and supports to individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities in the Denver metro area. They offer case management, therapy services, and community living supports.

• PEAK Parent Center: PEAK Parent Center empowers parents of children with disabilities to be effective advocates for their children. They offer training, resources, and support to help parents navigate the special education system.

• Colorado Department of Human Services, Division for Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (DIDD): DIDD oversees services and supports for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities in Colorado. They provide information on eligibility for services, funding options, and provider resources.

• Special Education Advisory Committee (SEAC): Each school district in Colorado has a SEAC that advises the district on special education policies and practices. Contact your local school district to find out more about the SEAC in your area.

• Autism Community Store: Located in the Denver metro area, this store offers a wide range of resources and supports for individuals with autism and their families, including books, toys, sensory items, and social skills programs.

These resources can provide valuable assistance as you navigate the world of ABA therapy and support your child's development. Don't hesitate to reach out and connect with these organizations. Building a strong support network can make a significant difference in your family's journey.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about ABA therapy in Englewood, CO, to help you navigate the process:

Q: My child was just diagnosed with autism. Where do I start? A: Congratulations on taking the first steps! Begin by contacting your pediatrician for referrals to developmental specialists. Reach out to Developmental Pathways for early intervention services if your child is under 3. Simultaneously, research ABA therapy providers in Englewood and the surrounding areas. Consider attending an Autism Society of Colorado support group to connect with other families. Familiarize yourself with Colorado's insurance mandates for autism treatment and contact your insurance provider to understand your coverage.

Q: How do I know if ABA therapy is right for my child? A: ABA therapy is widely recognized as an effective treatment for autism, but it's not a one-size-fits-all solution. Consider ABA if your child struggles with communication, social skills, or adaptive behaviors. A comprehensive assessment by a BCBA can help determine if ABA therapy is appropriate for your child's specific needs. Observe if your child responds well to structured learning environments and positive reinforcement. Discuss your concerns and goals with the BCBA to ensure that the therapy program aligns with your family's values.

Q: How many hours of ABA therapy does my child need? A: The number of hours of ABA therapy needed varies depending on your child's age, needs, and goals. Early and intensive ABA therapy (25-40 hours per week) is often recommended for young children with autism to maximize developmental gains. However, some children may benefit from less intensive programs (10-20 hours per week). The BCBA will assess your child's needs and recommend an appropriate intensity of therapy. Regular monitoring of your child's progress will help determine if adjustments to the intensity of therapy are needed.

Q: Will my insurance cover ABA therapy? A: Colorado law mandates that most health insurance plans provide coverage for ABA therapy for individuals with autism. Review your insurance policy documents carefully to understand your coverage for ABA therapy. Contact your insurance provider directly and ask about deductibles, co-pays, co-insurance, and prior authorization requirements. If your insurance company denies coverage, you have the right to appeal their decision. Consider contacting the Autism Society of Colorado for assistance in navigating the insurance process.

Q: What is the role of parents in ABA therapy? A: Parental involvement is crucial to the success of ABA therapy. As a parent, you are an integral part of the therapy team. The BCBA will provide training and support to help you implement strategies at home and reinforce your child's learning. Active participation in therapy sessions, consistent implementation of strategies at home, and open communication with the therapy team will help your child generalize skills to different settings and achieve their full potential.