Choosing The Right ABA Center: 9 Key Factors To Consider

So, you’re on the hunt for the perfect ABA (Applied Behavior Analysis) center for your child. You’re already juggling a million things—work, other kids, laundry that never ends, and oh, let’s not forget trying to find five minutes to yourself. But finding the right ABA center is a top priority because you want the best for your child, especially when it comes to their development and happiness.

As the mom of a nonverbal 11-year-old who has been in ABA therapy since first grade, I get it. It’s like looking for a needle in a haystack. But, with the right pointers, it can be less daunting.

Let’s dive into some key factors you should consider when looking for the best option for your child.

1. Qualified and Compassionate Staff

The staff at the ABA center will be the ones working closely with your child, so their qualifications and demeanor are crucial. Look for centers where the therapists are certified and have plenty of experience.

But, qualifications aren’t everything. You need people who genuinely care about your child. When we first walked into our current ABA center, I saw a therapist calmly handle a meltdown with the patience of a saint. Right then, I knew this place was different. If you see the same level of empathy and understanding, you’re on the right track.

Ultimately, only you know if a therapist is going to be a good fit for your child.

2. Individualized Treatment Plans

Every child is unique, and their therapy should be too. A good ABA center will create a personalized treatment plan tailored to your child’s specific needs and goals. This plan should be regularly reviewed and updated based on your child’s progress.

When we started ABA therapy, the plan for my son included goals like improving eye contact and using picture cards to communicate. Over the years, those goals have evolved as he has grown and developed. Make sure the center you choose is flexible and willing to adapt the plan as needed.

3. Parent Involvement and Training

You’re your child’s first and best advocate. An ABA center that encourages and trains parents to be part of the therapy process is a big plus. You need to know how to continue the progress at home, and the right center will equip you with the tools and knowledge to do so.

I remember trying to learn ABA techniques myself—at first, it felt like trying to master a new language. But with the center’s support, I became more confident and saw firsthand how much it helped my son.

4. Clean and Safe Environment

This might seem obvious, but the physical environment of the ABA center is crucial. It should be clean, safe, and equipped with the necessary resources and materials for effective therapy.

When you visit, take a good look around. Are the therapy rooms welcoming? Are there enough materials and toys? Is the place childproofed? If the answer to all these questions is yes, then it’s a good sign.

5. Progress Tracking and Communication

Consistent communication between you and the therapists is vital. You need to be kept in the loop about your child’s progress and any adjustments to the treatment plan. The best ABA centers provide regular updates and are always open to discussing your child’s development.

One of my favorite parts of our ABA center were the daily reports and monthly meetings. They don’t just tell me what my son did—they celebrate his successes, no matter how small. And let’s face it, in our world, even the tiniest victories are worth celebrating with a happy dance in the kitchen.

6. Recommendations and Reviews

Before making a decision, do your homework. Ask other parents for recommendations and read online reviews. Word of mouth is powerful—other parents who have been in your shoes can provide invaluable insights.

When I was searching for an ABA center, I joined a few online support groups for parents of autistic children. The community there was incredibly supportive and provided recommendations based on their experiences. It made a world of difference.

Don’t overlook newer centers. My son got to grow with a small and new center. There were a lot of learning curves and bumps in the road. But, they were so dedicated because of how new they were, it was a great experience. Sometimes, newer centers bring a fresh perspective and an extra dose of enthusiasm that can be incredibly beneficial.

7. Location and Schedule

Practical considerations like location and schedule are also important. You don’t want to spend hours commuting, and the therapy sessions should fit into your family’s routine.

We were lucky to find a great ABA center just a short drive from our home. It made it so much easier to juggle therapy with school and other activities.

8. Cost and Insurance Coverage for ABA Center Therapies

Let’s talk about the elephant in the room—cost. ABA therapy can be expensive, so check if the center accepts your insurance or offers financial assistance.

We’ve had our fair share of insurance battles, but finding a center that worked with us made a huge difference. Don’t be afraid to ask questions about costs and funding options. It’s better to know upfront than to be surprised by a hefty bill later.

If you find a good ABA center, they will fight your battles with the insurance for you. Mine always did.

9. Connecting with Other Parents

Typically, one of the best ways to get honest feedback about ABA centers is to connect with other parents. Join local Facebook groups or reach out to special needs parent communities. These parents have been through it all and can provide invaluable insights into the good and bad of local ABA centers.

When I first started looking, the information and advice from other parents was a Godsend. They helped me avoid some of the common pitfalls and pointed me in the direction of centers that genuinely cared about their children’s progress.

Personal Recommendation: Local ABA Center

If you happen to live in Indianapolis (or near Indianapolis), I highly recommend giving BehaviorWorks ABA a call to see how long their waiting list is. My son was with them for a very long time (until he aged out of going to their center). The things they taught him to do really blew my mind. They were kind and gentle. This center took the time to evaluate my son, get to know him, and adhere to his needs.

Final Thoughts On Choosing An ABA Center

Choosing the right ABA center for your child might feel like a monumental task, but remember, you’re not alone. Take it one step at a time, trust your instincts, and don’t hesitate to lean on your support network.

You’re doing an amazing job, mama. Keep pushing forward, keep advocating for your child, and keep finding those moments of joy amidst the chaos. And hey, when in doubt, a little humor goes a long way. After all, laughter might not solve everything, but it sure does make the journey a lot more bearable.

Good luck, and remember—you’ve got this!