FAQs for Parents

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Frequently Asked Questions

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What Is Autism?

Autism is a spectrum of disorders that disrupts a child’s development of social skills, communication, and behavior. Autism is the fastest growing developmental disorder in the United States. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASDs) are a group of developmental disabilities that can cause significant social, communication and behavioral challenges and in our country today 1 in 54 children have an ASD.

Additionally, a new government study of parents suggests that it is actually 1 in 45 children ages 3-17 have been diagnosed with this disorder. Although ABA therapy can help to improve difficulties with communication, social interactions, and problem behaviors, early intervention is critical as the brain’s ability to learn new skills decreases with age. Early intervention helps children gain basic skills learned early in life such as physical skills, thinking skills, communication skills, and emotional skills. Therefore, the earlier the treatment the more likely we are to see effective change and long-term overall success!

How will ABA Therapy Help My Child?

ABA therapy will address the developmental needs identified during an initial assessment of your child’s abilities across language, social and behavioral domains. An individualized teaching plan will be created to target any area of need, but common goals include learning to ask for help, learning to follow classroom instructions, and how to use language across a variety of settings. Other important target areas of ABA include social skills, play skills, potty training, self-care skills (brushing teeth, washing hands, etc.), and day-to-day living skills (independently getting dressed, following safety instructions, etc.).

When Is The Best Time For My Child To Begin ABA Therapy?

Simply stated: the earlier, the better.

Plenty of clinical research has demonstrated that children who start ABA therapy as early as possible make the most significant improvements

How Are Parents Involved?

Families and guardians are an essential part of any ABA therapy program and need to be active in the treatment process. Parent training is a core part of what we do at Colorful Minds. We require weekly sessions between guardians and their dedicated BCBA in which there are continued discussions and teachings on how to generalize what’s being done during session with other environments the child encounters.

Does My Child Have To Have A Formal Autism Diagnosis To Get Treatment?

Children are not required to have a diagnosis for treatment but children are required to have a formal diagnosis in order to receive coverage from insurance providers.  Insurance coverage is required for treatment at Colorful Minds.

What Is The Age Range Of Children You Serve?

We serve children on the autism spectrum from 18 months to 12 years and offer personalized programming for their unique needs. 

Is Your Therapy One-On-One With The Children?

Therapy is one-on-one: one child, one therapist.

Does Illinois Medicaid cover ABA Therapy?

Yes, as of May 2022, Medicaid will cover ABA therapy in the state of Illinois. 

What Is A Board Certified Behavior Analyst?

A Board Certified Behavior Analyst, or BCBA, is a graduate-level professional who is certified in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) by the Behavior Analyst Certification Board. BCBAs apply the principles of ABA to help children with Autism improve behaviors and reach optimal outcomes so that they can reach their true potential. The BCBA oversees the creation, implementation, and evaluation of individualized ABA therapy for our clients. They take the lead building the best possible plan based on each child’s unique strengths and challenges.