What Happens in the First 3 Months of ABA Therapy?

Starting ABA therapy is a big step for any family. It can feel like a lot to take in, especially if this is your first experience with therapy. But don’t worry, we’re here to help you understand what to expect during those first three months. This post will guide you through the process and give you a clear picture of what’s to come.

The First Steps: Assessments and Planning

The first thing you’ll experience is the assessment phase. This is where your child’s therapist gets to know your child. They’ll observe behaviors, strengths, and areas where your child might need help. It’s a chance for the therapist to tailor the program to your child’s unique needs.

Here’s what to expect:

• Behavioral analysis: The therapist will look at your child’s behaviors. They’ll study what triggers certain actions and how your child reacts.
• Skill assessment: The therapist will assess things like communication, social skills, and daily living abilities.
• Goal setting: Together, you’ll set clear goals for what the therapy will focus on, like improving communication or social interactions.

Developing a Custom Plan

Once the assessment is done, the therapist will develop a treatment plan. This plan is personalized to fit your child’s needs. In the first few months, expect a lot of focus on building basic skills—like following simple instructions or working on communication. Remember, ABA therapy is a gradual process. Big changes take time.

Therapy Frequency

ABA therapy can take up a good chunk of time, especially in the beginning. Depending on your child’s needs, they might have ABA therapy for 10-30 hours a week. Sessions usually last a few hours at a time, several times a week. The schedule will be based on what works best for your child.

You can expect:

• Structured sessions: Therapy will be organized and focused on clear goals.
• Breaks: Sessions are typically broken up with short breaks so your child doesn’t get overwhelmed.

Your Role as a Parent

You play a big role in ABA therapy. The therapist won’t just work with your child—they’ll also teach you how to help at home. You’ll get tips and tools to use throughout the day. This collaboration helps your child make progress both in and out of therapy.

What you can expect:

• Training: You’ll learn strategies to reinforce ABA therapy at home.
• Tracking progress: You might be asked to keep track of certain behaviors or skills to help measure progress.
• Ongoing communication: Regular check-ins with the therapist will keep you in the loop on how things are going.

Early Progress: What to Expect

Don’t expect dramatic changes right away. The first few months of ABA therapy are about laying the groundwork. Progress can be slow but steady. Small steps are still huge victories. You’ll likely see gradual improvements in things like communication or social skills.

Adjusting to the Routine

The first few months may come with some bumps in the road. It’s normal for both parents and children to adjust to the new routine. Some kids may feel overwhelmed, while others might take to it more easily. Be patient, and stay in touch with your therapist. They’re there to support both you and your child through the process.

Finding the Right ABA Provider

Choosing the right ABA provider is one of the most important decisions you’ll make. A good provider will tailor their approach to your child’s needs and work closely with you every step of the way. 

To make finding the right fit easier, visit ABA Navigator. You can search for local ABA providers, find one that accepts your insurance, and explore the services they offer.

ABA Navigator makes it easy to connect with providers offering services like in-home therapy, early intervention, and social skills groups. You can even filter results by insurance type, making it simpler to find the right provider for your family.

Ready to find the right ABA provider for your child? Visit ABA Navigator to explore providers in your area, check insurance compatibility, and find the right therapy services for your family.