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A mother with her autistic son talking to a therapist

Free Checklist: 7 Questions to Ask Before Starting ABA Therapy

Oct 27, 2025

A mother with her autistic son talking to a therapist

Free Checklist: 7 Questions to Ask Before Starting ABA Therapy

Oct 27, 2025

A mother with her autistic son talking to a therapist

Free Checklist: 7 Questions to Ask Before Starting ABA Therapy

Oct 27, 2025

A mother with her autistic son talking to a therapist

Free Checklist: 7 Questions to Ask Before Starting ABA Therapy

Oct 27, 2025

Learn the 7 essential questions to ask before starting ABA therapy for your child. This checklist helps parents make informed decisions and find the right ABA provider.

Key Highlights

  • Discover the most important questions to ask before beginning ABA therapy.

  • Learn how to identify a qualified, compassionate ABA provider.

  • Understand what to expect from therapy sessions and parent involvement.

  • Get a printable checklist to guide your conversations with potential providers.

  • Make confident, informed decisions for your child’s growth and progress.

Questions to Ask Before Starting ABA Therapy

Starting ABA therapy (Applied Behavior Analysis) is one of the most important steps you can take to support your child’s development. But with so many providers, approaches, and programs out there, how do you know which one is right for your family?

That’s where this checklist comes in. These 7 essential questions will help you navigate the process, uncover what truly matters, and ensure your child receives the best possible care and support.

  1. What Are the Credentials and Experience of Your ABA Therapists?

The first question you should ask any ABA provider is about their qualifications.

Look for:

Certification

Role in ABA Therapy

Minimum Education

Supervised Practice Required

BCBA

Designs and supervises treatment plans

Master’s Degree

Yes

BCaBA

Assists BCBA in program oversight

Bachelor’s Degree

Yes

RBT

Implements therapy sessions

High School Diploma

Yes

Tip: Ask how often BCBAs observe sessions and update treatment goals — consistent supervision is key to quality care.

  1. What Is the Assessment Process Like?

Before therapy begins, your child should undergo a comprehensive behavioral assessment. This helps the team identify strengths, challenges, and priority goals.

Ask questions like:

  • What assessment tools do you use?

  • How long does the assessment take?

  • How are parents involved in the process?

A good provider will explain the results clearly, helping you understand how goals are created and measured.

  1. How Is the ABA Program Individualized for My Child?

Every child with autism is unique, and so should be their ABA plan.

You’ll want to know:

  • How goals are tailored to your child’s specific needs and developmental level.

  • How preferences, strengths, and motivators are incorporated.

  • How often are goals reviewed and adjusted?

An individualized approach ensures therapy is engaging, effective, and respectful of your child’s personality and learning style.

  1. How Are Parents Involved in ABA Therapy?

Your participation can significantly enhance your child’s progress.

Ask about:

  • Parent training sessions — where you learn ABA strategies for home use.

  • Regular progress meetings — to stay informed about your child’s development.

  • Collaborative goal setting — ensuring your family’s priorities are reflected in the plan.

The best ABA programs see parents as partners, not bystanders.

  1. What Does a Typical ABA Session Look Like?

Understanding what a typical day of ABA looks like helps set expectations.

Ask your provider to describe:

  • The length and structure of sessions.

  • Whether therapy happens in-home, in-clinic, or in-school.

  • How therapists handle challenges, transitions, or sensory sensitivities.

Knowing what to expect can ease first-day jitters and help you prepare your child for sessions.

  1. How Do You Measure and Report Progress?

Tracking progress is a fundamental part of ABA therapy.

Key questions include:

  • How is data collected during sessions?

  • How often are progress reports shared?

  • How do you decide when to adjust or add new goals?

Look for a provider who uses data-driven decision-making — meaning therapy adjustments are based on measurable outcomes, not just observation.

  1. Does My Insurance Cover ABA Therapy, and How Does Billing Work?

ABA therapy can be an investment, but many insurance plans cover it.

Ask about:

  • Which insurance providers they accept.

  • Whether they offer help with authorization and paperwork.

  • What your out-of-pocket costs may be.

Some providers even assist families in verifying benefits and submitting claims to reduce financial stress.

Printable Quick-Check Summary

Question

Why It Matters

What to Listen For

Therapist Credentials

Ensures quality care

BCBA and RBT qualifications

Assessment Process

Establishes baseline

Parent involvement, tools used

Individualized Plan

Personalizes therapy

Tailored goals and motivators

Parent Involvement

Reinforces learning

Training and collaboration

Session Structure

Sets expectations

Flexible, child-centered sessions

Progress Tracking

Measures success

Data-based adjustments

Insurance & Billing

Manages costs

Assistance with coverage

Final Thoughts

Starting ABA therapy can feel overwhelming, but asking the right questions can make all the difference. By doing your research and choosing a provider who values transparency, personalization, and collaboration, you’ll be setting your child up for success from day one.

At Blossom ABA Therapy, we understand that parents need clarity and confidence when starting their child’s ABA journey. Our licensed BCBAs and compassionate therapists are here to guide you every step of the way — from assessment to progress updates — ensuring your child receives the care they deserve. Contact us today!

Frequently Asked Questions

  1. At what age is it best to start ABA therapy?

ABA therapy can begin as early as 18 months. However, it’s effective at any age because it’s tailored to the child’s current developmental level.

  1. How many hours of ABA therapy does my child need?

The recommended number of hours depends on your child’s assessment and goals. Many programs range from 10–40 hours per week.

  1. Can parents observe or join sessions?

Yes! Many providers encourage parents to observe sessions and participate in training to reinforce skills at home.

  1. How long does it take to see progress in ABA therapy?

Every child progresses at a unique pace, but most families notice improvements within a few months of consistent therapy.

  1. What if my insurance doesn’t cover ABA therapy?

Some providers offer flexible payment options or can help you explore grants, scholarships, or state funding programs.

Sources:

  • https://www.bacb.com/bcba/

  • https://www.bacb.com/rbt/

  • https://www.autismspeaks.org/sensory-issues

  • https://autism.org/screening-assessment/


Key Highlights

  • Discover the most important questions to ask before beginning ABA therapy.

  • Learn how to identify a qualified, compassionate ABA provider.

  • Understand what to expect from therapy sessions and parent involvement.

  • Get a printable checklist to guide your conversations with potential providers.

  • Make confident, informed decisions for your child’s growth and progress.

Questions to Ask Before Starting ABA Therapy

Starting ABA therapy (Applied Behavior Analysis) is one of the most important steps you can take to support your child’s development. But with so many providers, approaches, and programs out there, how do you know which one is right for your family?

That’s where this checklist comes in. These 7 essential questions will help you navigate the process, uncover what truly matters, and ensure your child receives the best possible care and support.

  1. What Are the Credentials and Experience of Your ABA Therapists?

The first question you should ask any ABA provider is about their qualifications.

Look for:

Certification

Role in ABA Therapy

Minimum Education

Supervised Practice Required

BCBA

Designs and supervises treatment plans

Master’s Degree

Yes

BCaBA

Assists BCBA in program oversight

Bachelor’s Degree

Yes

RBT

Implements therapy sessions

High School Diploma

Yes

Tip: Ask how often BCBAs observe sessions and update treatment goals — consistent supervision is key to quality care.

  1. What Is the Assessment Process Like?

Before therapy begins, your child should undergo a comprehensive behavioral assessment. This helps the team identify strengths, challenges, and priority goals.

Ask questions like:

  • What assessment tools do you use?

  • How long does the assessment take?

  • How are parents involved in the process?

A good provider will explain the results clearly, helping you understand how goals are created and measured.

  1. How Is the ABA Program Individualized for My Child?

Every child with autism is unique, and so should be their ABA plan.

You’ll want to know:

  • How goals are tailored to your child’s specific needs and developmental level.

  • How preferences, strengths, and motivators are incorporated.

  • How often are goals reviewed and adjusted?

An individualized approach ensures therapy is engaging, effective, and respectful of your child’s personality and learning style.

  1. How Are Parents Involved in ABA Therapy?

Your participation can significantly enhance your child’s progress.

Ask about:

  • Parent training sessions — where you learn ABA strategies for home use.

  • Regular progress meetings — to stay informed about your child’s development.

  • Collaborative goal setting — ensuring your family’s priorities are reflected in the plan.

The best ABA programs see parents as partners, not bystanders.

  1. What Does a Typical ABA Session Look Like?

Understanding what a typical day of ABA looks like helps set expectations.

Ask your provider to describe:

  • The length and structure of sessions.

  • Whether therapy happens in-home, in-clinic, or in-school.

  • How therapists handle challenges, transitions, or sensory sensitivities.

Knowing what to expect can ease first-day jitters and help you prepare your child for sessions.

  1. How Do You Measure and Report Progress?

Tracking progress is a fundamental part of ABA therapy.

Key questions include:

  • How is data collected during sessions?

  • How often are progress reports shared?

  • How do you decide when to adjust or add new goals?

Look for a provider who uses data-driven decision-making — meaning therapy adjustments are based on measurable outcomes, not just observation.

  1. Does My Insurance Cover ABA Therapy, and How Does Billing Work?

ABA therapy can be an investment, but many insurance plans cover it.

Ask about:

  • Which insurance providers they accept.

  • Whether they offer help with authorization and paperwork.

  • What your out-of-pocket costs may be.

Some providers even assist families in verifying benefits and submitting claims to reduce financial stress.

Printable Quick-Check Summary

Question

Why It Matters

What to Listen For

Therapist Credentials

Ensures quality care

BCBA and RBT qualifications

Assessment Process

Establishes baseline

Parent involvement, tools used

Individualized Plan

Personalizes therapy

Tailored goals and motivators

Parent Involvement

Reinforces learning

Training and collaboration

Session Structure

Sets expectations

Flexible, child-centered sessions

Progress Tracking

Measures success

Data-based adjustments

Insurance & Billing

Manages costs

Assistance with coverage

Final Thoughts

Starting ABA therapy can feel overwhelming, but asking the right questions can make all the difference. By doing your research and choosing a provider who values transparency, personalization, and collaboration, you’ll be setting your child up for success from day one.

At Blossom ABA Therapy, we understand that parents need clarity and confidence when starting their child’s ABA journey. Our licensed BCBAs and compassionate therapists are here to guide you every step of the way — from assessment to progress updates — ensuring your child receives the care they deserve. Contact us today!

Frequently Asked Questions

  1. At what age is it best to start ABA therapy?

ABA therapy can begin as early as 18 months. However, it’s effective at any age because it’s tailored to the child’s current developmental level.

  1. How many hours of ABA therapy does my child need?

The recommended number of hours depends on your child’s assessment and goals. Many programs range from 10–40 hours per week.

  1. Can parents observe or join sessions?

Yes! Many providers encourage parents to observe sessions and participate in training to reinforce skills at home.

  1. How long does it take to see progress in ABA therapy?

Every child progresses at a unique pace, but most families notice improvements within a few months of consistent therapy.

  1. What if my insurance doesn’t cover ABA therapy?

Some providers offer flexible payment options or can help you explore grants, scholarships, or state funding programs.

Sources:

  • https://www.bacb.com/bcba/

  • https://www.bacb.com/rbt/

  • https://www.autismspeaks.org/sensory-issues

  • https://autism.org/screening-assessment/


Key Highlights

  • Discover the most important questions to ask before beginning ABA therapy.

  • Learn how to identify a qualified, compassionate ABA provider.

  • Understand what to expect from therapy sessions and parent involvement.

  • Get a printable checklist to guide your conversations with potential providers.

  • Make confident, informed decisions for your child’s growth and progress.

Questions to Ask Before Starting ABA Therapy

Starting ABA therapy (Applied Behavior Analysis) is one of the most important steps you can take to support your child’s development. But with so many providers, approaches, and programs out there, how do you know which one is right for your family?

That’s where this checklist comes in. These 7 essential questions will help you navigate the process, uncover what truly matters, and ensure your child receives the best possible care and support.

  1. What Are the Credentials and Experience of Your ABA Therapists?

The first question you should ask any ABA provider is about their qualifications.

Look for:

Certification

Role in ABA Therapy

Minimum Education

Supervised Practice Required

BCBA

Designs and supervises treatment plans

Master’s Degree

Yes

BCaBA

Assists BCBA in program oversight

Bachelor’s Degree

Yes

RBT

Implements therapy sessions

High School Diploma

Yes

Tip: Ask how often BCBAs observe sessions and update treatment goals — consistent supervision is key to quality care.

  1. What Is the Assessment Process Like?

Before therapy begins, your child should undergo a comprehensive behavioral assessment. This helps the team identify strengths, challenges, and priority goals.

Ask questions like:

  • What assessment tools do you use?

  • How long does the assessment take?

  • How are parents involved in the process?

A good provider will explain the results clearly, helping you understand how goals are created and measured.

  1. How Is the ABA Program Individualized for My Child?

Every child with autism is unique, and so should be their ABA plan.

You’ll want to know:

  • How goals are tailored to your child’s specific needs and developmental level.

  • How preferences, strengths, and motivators are incorporated.

  • How often are goals reviewed and adjusted?

An individualized approach ensures therapy is engaging, effective, and respectful of your child’s personality and learning style.

  1. How Are Parents Involved in ABA Therapy?

Your participation can significantly enhance your child’s progress.

Ask about:

  • Parent training sessions — where you learn ABA strategies for home use.

  • Regular progress meetings — to stay informed about your child’s development.

  • Collaborative goal setting — ensuring your family’s priorities are reflected in the plan.

The best ABA programs see parents as partners, not bystanders.

  1. What Does a Typical ABA Session Look Like?

Understanding what a typical day of ABA looks like helps set expectations.

Ask your provider to describe:

  • The length and structure of sessions.

  • Whether therapy happens in-home, in-clinic, or in-school.

  • How therapists handle challenges, transitions, or sensory sensitivities.

Knowing what to expect can ease first-day jitters and help you prepare your child for sessions.

  1. How Do You Measure and Report Progress?

Tracking progress is a fundamental part of ABA therapy.

Key questions include:

  • How is data collected during sessions?

  • How often are progress reports shared?

  • How do you decide when to adjust or add new goals?

Look for a provider who uses data-driven decision-making — meaning therapy adjustments are based on measurable outcomes, not just observation.

  1. Does My Insurance Cover ABA Therapy, and How Does Billing Work?

ABA therapy can be an investment, but many insurance plans cover it.

Ask about:

  • Which insurance providers they accept.

  • Whether they offer help with authorization and paperwork.

  • What your out-of-pocket costs may be.

Some providers even assist families in verifying benefits and submitting claims to reduce financial stress.

Printable Quick-Check Summary

Question

Why It Matters

What to Listen For

Therapist Credentials

Ensures quality care

BCBA and RBT qualifications

Assessment Process

Establishes baseline

Parent involvement, tools used

Individualized Plan

Personalizes therapy

Tailored goals and motivators

Parent Involvement

Reinforces learning

Training and collaboration

Session Structure

Sets expectations

Flexible, child-centered sessions

Progress Tracking

Measures success

Data-based adjustments

Insurance & Billing

Manages costs

Assistance with coverage

Final Thoughts

Starting ABA therapy can feel overwhelming, but asking the right questions can make all the difference. By doing your research and choosing a provider who values transparency, personalization, and collaboration, you’ll be setting your child up for success from day one.

At Blossom ABA Therapy, we understand that parents need clarity and confidence when starting their child’s ABA journey. Our licensed BCBAs and compassionate therapists are here to guide you every step of the way — from assessment to progress updates — ensuring your child receives the care they deserve. Contact us today!

Frequently Asked Questions

  1. At what age is it best to start ABA therapy?

ABA therapy can begin as early as 18 months. However, it’s effective at any age because it’s tailored to the child’s current developmental level.

  1. How many hours of ABA therapy does my child need?

The recommended number of hours depends on your child’s assessment and goals. Many programs range from 10–40 hours per week.

  1. Can parents observe or join sessions?

Yes! Many providers encourage parents to observe sessions and participate in training to reinforce skills at home.

  1. How long does it take to see progress in ABA therapy?

Every child progresses at a unique pace, but most families notice improvements within a few months of consistent therapy.

  1. What if my insurance doesn’t cover ABA therapy?

Some providers offer flexible payment options or can help you explore grants, scholarships, or state funding programs.

Sources:

  • https://www.bacb.com/bcba/

  • https://www.bacb.com/rbt/

  • https://www.autismspeaks.org/sensory-issues

  • https://autism.org/screening-assessment/


Key Highlights

  • Discover the most important questions to ask before beginning ABA therapy.

  • Learn how to identify a qualified, compassionate ABA provider.

  • Understand what to expect from therapy sessions and parent involvement.

  • Get a printable checklist to guide your conversations with potential providers.

  • Make confident, informed decisions for your child’s growth and progress.

Questions to Ask Before Starting ABA Therapy

Starting ABA therapy (Applied Behavior Analysis) is one of the most important steps you can take to support your child’s development. But with so many providers, approaches, and programs out there, how do you know which one is right for your family?

That’s where this checklist comes in. These 7 essential questions will help you navigate the process, uncover what truly matters, and ensure your child receives the best possible care and support.

  1. What Are the Credentials and Experience of Your ABA Therapists?

The first question you should ask any ABA provider is about their qualifications.

Look for:

Certification

Role in ABA Therapy

Minimum Education

Supervised Practice Required

BCBA

Designs and supervises treatment plans

Master’s Degree

Yes

BCaBA

Assists BCBA in program oversight

Bachelor’s Degree

Yes

RBT

Implements therapy sessions

High School Diploma

Yes

Tip: Ask how often BCBAs observe sessions and update treatment goals — consistent supervision is key to quality care.

  1. What Is the Assessment Process Like?

Before therapy begins, your child should undergo a comprehensive behavioral assessment. This helps the team identify strengths, challenges, and priority goals.

Ask questions like:

  • What assessment tools do you use?

  • How long does the assessment take?

  • How are parents involved in the process?

A good provider will explain the results clearly, helping you understand how goals are created and measured.

  1. How Is the ABA Program Individualized for My Child?

Every child with autism is unique, and so should be their ABA plan.

You’ll want to know:

  • How goals are tailored to your child’s specific needs and developmental level.

  • How preferences, strengths, and motivators are incorporated.

  • How often are goals reviewed and adjusted?

An individualized approach ensures therapy is engaging, effective, and respectful of your child’s personality and learning style.

  1. How Are Parents Involved in ABA Therapy?

Your participation can significantly enhance your child’s progress.

Ask about:

  • Parent training sessions — where you learn ABA strategies for home use.

  • Regular progress meetings — to stay informed about your child’s development.

  • Collaborative goal setting — ensuring your family’s priorities are reflected in the plan.

The best ABA programs see parents as partners, not bystanders.

  1. What Does a Typical ABA Session Look Like?

Understanding what a typical day of ABA looks like helps set expectations.

Ask your provider to describe:

  • The length and structure of sessions.

  • Whether therapy happens in-home, in-clinic, or in-school.

  • How therapists handle challenges, transitions, or sensory sensitivities.

Knowing what to expect can ease first-day jitters and help you prepare your child for sessions.

  1. How Do You Measure and Report Progress?

Tracking progress is a fundamental part of ABA therapy.

Key questions include:

  • How is data collected during sessions?

  • How often are progress reports shared?

  • How do you decide when to adjust or add new goals?

Look for a provider who uses data-driven decision-making — meaning therapy adjustments are based on measurable outcomes, not just observation.

  1. Does My Insurance Cover ABA Therapy, and How Does Billing Work?

ABA therapy can be an investment, but many insurance plans cover it.

Ask about:

  • Which insurance providers they accept.

  • Whether they offer help with authorization and paperwork.

  • What your out-of-pocket costs may be.

Some providers even assist families in verifying benefits and submitting claims to reduce financial stress.

Printable Quick-Check Summary

Question

Why It Matters

What to Listen For

Therapist Credentials

Ensures quality care

BCBA and RBT qualifications

Assessment Process

Establishes baseline

Parent involvement, tools used

Individualized Plan

Personalizes therapy

Tailored goals and motivators

Parent Involvement

Reinforces learning

Training and collaboration

Session Structure

Sets expectations

Flexible, child-centered sessions

Progress Tracking

Measures success

Data-based adjustments

Insurance & Billing

Manages costs

Assistance with coverage

Final Thoughts

Starting ABA therapy can feel overwhelming, but asking the right questions can make all the difference. By doing your research and choosing a provider who values transparency, personalization, and collaboration, you’ll be setting your child up for success from day one.

At Blossom ABA Therapy, we understand that parents need clarity and confidence when starting their child’s ABA journey. Our licensed BCBAs and compassionate therapists are here to guide you every step of the way — from assessment to progress updates — ensuring your child receives the care they deserve. Contact us today!

Frequently Asked Questions

  1. At what age is it best to start ABA therapy?

ABA therapy can begin as early as 18 months. However, it’s effective at any age because it’s tailored to the child’s current developmental level.

  1. How many hours of ABA therapy does my child need?

The recommended number of hours depends on your child’s assessment and goals. Many programs range from 10–40 hours per week.

  1. Can parents observe or join sessions?

Yes! Many providers encourage parents to observe sessions and participate in training to reinforce skills at home.

  1. How long does it take to see progress in ABA therapy?

Every child progresses at a unique pace, but most families notice improvements within a few months of consistent therapy.

  1. What if my insurance doesn’t cover ABA therapy?

Some providers offer flexible payment options or can help you explore grants, scholarships, or state funding programs.

Sources:

  • https://www.bacb.com/bcba/

  • https://www.bacb.com/rbt/

  • https://www.autismspeaks.org/sensory-issues

  • https://autism.org/screening-assessment/


7 Questions to Ask Before Starting ABA Therapy | Blossom ABA

7 Questions to Ask Before Starting ABA Therapy | Blossom ABA

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Blossom Therapy constantly seeks qualified BCBAs and RBTs to fill full and part-time positions.

Blossom Therapy constantly seeks qualified BCBAs and RBTs to fill full and part-time positions.

Blossom Therapy constantly seeks qualified BCBAs and RBTs to fill full and part-time positions.

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Empowering Progress: Navigating ABA Therapy for Your Child's Development
Empowering Progress: Navigating ABA Therapy for Your Child's Development
Empowering Progress: Navigating ABA Therapy for Your Child's Development
Empowering Progress: Navigating ABA Therapy for Your Child's Development