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Real members of MyAutismTeam have posted questions and answers that support our community guidelines, and should not be taken as medical advice. Looking for the latest medically reviewed content by doctors and experts? Visit our resource section.
A MyAutismTeam Member asked a question 💭
Fort Lee, NJ

My child has one right now but I really don't think she knows what she's doing. He's having a ton of behavioral issues and she seems flustered and overwhelmed.

January 31
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A MyAutismTeam Member

https://surpassbehavioralhealth.com/guides/choo...

Qualified Staff & Supervision: Ensure services are overseen by a BCBA, with Registered Behavior Technicians (RBTs) providing direct care. Ask about the frequency of supervision for RBTs and the ratio of staff to students.
Individualized Education Plans (IEP) Alignment: The therapy must support, not replace, IEP goals. Look for collaboration with classroom teachers and special education staff.
Positive, Skill-Based Approach: Focus on skill acquisition (communication, social, daily living) using positive reinforcement, rather than solely reducing behaviors.
Data-Driven Decisions: The provider should track progress, such as behavior reduction and skill acquisition, and use this data to adjust treatment plans.
Natural Environment Training (NET): Effective school ABA uses Natural Environment Teaching to teach skills in real-life situations rather than just at a desk.
Active Communication: Look for regular updates on your child's progress and opportunities for training or involvement.

Contact NJ FamilyCare: Enroll your child if eligible.
Consult Autism NJ: A great resource for state-specific information.
Explore Federal Resources: Look into SSI and tax credits via the SSA and IRS.
Seek Out Grants: Check organizations like Autism Speaks or ABA Path for grant opportunities.

New Jersey offers significant autism benefits for children, primarily through NJ FamilyCare (Medicaid), covering therapies like ABA, OT, PT, and speech, plus assistive devices, while federal SSI provides income support and Medicaid eligibility for qualifying families, and additional support comes from programs like the federal Child & Dependent Care Credit and state-specific grants for camps/medication.
NJ Medicaid & FamilyCare (EPSDT Program)
Comprehensive Therapy: Covers Physical Therapy (PT), Occupational Therapy (OT), Speech Therapy, and Behavioral Therapy (ABA).
Assistive Technology: Includes assessments and devices for communication.
Eligibility: For children under 21 with an ASD diagnosis enrolled in NJ FamilyCare/Medicaid.
Federal Benefits
Supplemental Security Income (SSI): Monthly payments for disabled children, potentially qualifying them for Medicaid as well.
Child & Dependent Care Credit: A federal tax credit for expenses like daycare, camps, and after-school care, applicable to children with disabilities.

What to Look for When Choosing an ABA Therapy Program - Surpass Behavioral Health
What to Look for When Choosing an ABA Therapy Program - Surpass Behavioral Health
January 31
MyAutismTeam

What qualities should you look for in an effective in-school ABA therapist?

It sounds like you're noticing some red flags with your child's current therapist. A good ABA therapist should appear confident and have a clear plan for your child's specific needs.

Here's what to look for in an effective ABA therapist:

- They Show Full Answer

What qualities should you look for in an effective in-school ABA therapist?

It sounds like you're noticing some red flags with your child's current therapist. A good ABA therapist should appear confident and have a clear plan for your child's specific needs.

Here's what to look for in an effective ABA therapist:

- They should pinpoint exactly what your child needs to work on
- They update goals frequently (ideally weekly) based on progress
- They understand what motivates your child and use that effectively
- They use praise, reinforcement, and motivation to help your child learn
- They should seem calm and prepared, not flustered

A MyAutismTeam member shared: "Working with his ABA therapist, we found what motivated him and reinforced him, and that's when things fell into place better for us."

If your child's behavioral issues are increasing rather than improving, that's a concern worth addressing. Consider requesting a meeting with the school to discuss your observations and whether a different therapist or approach might be more effective.

You might also want to ask about the therapist's specific training and experience with behavioral challenges similar to your child's. Being your child's advocate means speaking up when something isn't working.

January 31

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