Updated October 20, 2026

Starting ABA therapy can bring plenty of questions. This guide explains the basics, introduces the people on an ABA team, and offers questions to help you choose support that fits your child and family.

What is ABA therapy?

Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) examines how learning and the environment influence behavior. It uses individualized teaching strategies and ongoing measurement to build useful skills and evaluate progress.

Depending on a child’s needs, goals may include asking for help or a break, participating in routines, learning self-care skills, and communicating preferences. Communication can include speech, gestures, pictures, or a communication device.

What should a treatment plan focus on?

Goals should be meaningful to the child and family. A thoughtful plan considers the child’s strengths, interests, communication needs, comfort, and daily routines. Families should understand why a goal matters and how progress will be measured.

For example, learning to request a break may help a child communicate during a difficult task. Teaching should also consider whether the task or environment needs to change. The focus should be useful skills, safety, participation, and quality of life.

Who provides ABA services?

A Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) may assess needs, develop a treatment plan, review progress, and supervise services. A Registered Behavior Technician (RBT) provides behavior-analytic services under qualified supervision. Ask who will oversee your child’s care and how to contact that person.

You can check individual credentials through the Behavior Analyst Certification Board’s consumer resources and registry.

What happens during sessions?

Sessions may include play, everyday activities, and structured practice. Teaching can involve breaking skills into smaller steps, providing support, and reinforcing progress. Families should have opportunities to ask questions, share concerns, and learn strategies that fit their routines.

The plan should be reviewed as your child’s needs change. Progress and service recommendations vary by individual; a particular outcome or timeline cannot be promised.

Questions to ask before getting started

• How will you choose goals with our family and include our child’s preferences?

• How do you respond to discomfort, distress, or a request to stop?

• Who supervises services, and how often will we discuss progress?

• How will you coordinate with school staff and other providers when appropriate?

• What are the assessment, scheduling, authorization, and payment requirements?

Connect with The Reinforcement Zone

We provide in-home, school, and community-based ABA services. Contact us to discuss your family’s needs, current availability, and next steps: 772-304-3514 or [email protected].

Learn more

CDC: Treatment and Intervention for Autism
BACB: Consumer Resources