This is a request for consent to complete an assessment for initial or continued ABA services. ABA therapy utilizes evidence-based procedures to produce meaningful outcomes for individuals and families. The primary goal of ABA is to teach new skills, such as increasing communication and language, self-advocacy, building social connections with others, and increasing independence in self- care. ABA also focuses on reducing behaviors that are a barrier to learning. Programs are individualized based on interests, abilities, and family support.

An important aspect of an ABA assessment is to determine medical necessity for services and to ensure the scope of services needed is appropriate for the Therapy Matters team of ABA professionals. Assessment includes family interviews, patient record review, observation of skills and behavior, analysis of learning history, and treatment plan design that is specific to the individual. During the indirect part of the assessment, we will be reviewing records and asking questions to understand the individuals strengths, challenges, and medical history. During the direct observation, we will assess multiple developmental domains, such as receptive and expressive language, socialization, play skills, and self-help skills. The team will also want to observe any challenging or harmful behaviors if they occur. This observation informs treatment plan design to ensure the chosen goals are appropriate for the individual.

The treatment plan created as part of the assessment process will address skill deficits and challenging behaviors identified during the assessment. The treatment plan will also include family goals that will be developed to address family needs and to teach ABA concepts and principles. Treatment hours will be determined by the overall treatment package and may change over time as the individual progresses. The program manager consistently analyzes the data for each goal and makes changes to these goals as needed for target mastery or modification. Changes to the treatment plan will be reviewed during parent meetings, as well as the current progress for each program. Service Delivery is provided as a tiered model. The Board-certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) provides the clinical direction, supervision, and treatment plan management. The Registered Behavior Technician (RBT)/Behavior Technician delivers the treatment protocol. At Therapy Matters, we also utilize Behavior Analyst Trainees (BAT) to assist the BCBA with program management. BAT's are participating in a formal supervision program with all work supervised by a BCBA.

A Parent Contract will be reviewed and signed during the intake assessment process. This contract will remain in effect throughout the entire time services are delivered by Therapy Matters, Inc. The items in the Parent Contract are in place to ensure the highest quality and most consistent services are provided.