Frequently Asked Questions About Autism and ABA Therapy
An autism diagnosis comes with a lot of questions. And looking for answers can also be overwhelming. There are plenty of differing opinions about autism and ABA therapy out there.
We’ve heard it all.
But at The Autism Therapy Group, we put our clients and families first. We provide safe, proven-effective ABA therapy in-home or in our Lombard, IL clinic. To help put your worries to rest, we’ve compiled some of the most asked questions about autism, ABA therapy, and our services.
Q: What is autism spectrum disorder (ASD)?
A: ASD is a developmental disability that can cause behavioral, social, and communication challenges. While people with autism spectrum disorder don’t look any different from others, they are wired differently.
There’s nothing “wrong” with children or adults with autism spectrum disorder. They aren’t “broken” or “sick.” They may just need some help learning how to effectively communicate, behave, learn, care for themselves, and interact with others. Some need very little help, while others may need a lot.
Q: What are the signs of autism spectrum disorder?
A: ASD may present itself differently among individuals. Generally speaking, people on the autism spectrum have different ways of learning, reacting to things, behaving, and communicating.
Some of the most common symptoms of autism include:
- difficulty relating to others
- avoiding eye contact
- trouble expressing needs using typical words
- repeating actions over and over
- difficulty adapting to new routines, people, and places
- unusual reactions to how something tastes, smells, looks, feels, or sounds
- interested in people but unsure how to interact with them
- trouble understanding other people’s feelings or talking about their own
- doesn’t play pretend
- doesn’t look at objects when others point to them
- doesn’t point to objects to show interest
- sensitivity to sound, crowds, textures
Q: When can my child be diagnosed with ASD?
A: There is no medical test to diagnose ASD, so it can be tricky to diagnose. The easiest way to determine if your child has autism spectrum disorder is to watch their behavior to see how they progress through milestones.
The earlier your child is diagnosed, the more benefit they’ll receive from ABA therapy. Children can receive an autism diagnosis as young as 18 months old. Check with your pediatrician or contact us here at The Autism Therapy Group for an assessment.
Q: Are ADHD and ASD the same thing?
A: No, ADHD and ASD are not the same things. However, many of the symptoms of ADHD and ASD overlap, so it can be challenging to get the correct diagnosis. They are both neurodevelopmental disorders, but they are not the same in every way.
If you think your child has been misdiagnosed with one or the other, don’t be ashamed to continue advocating for them. Our team of experts at The Autism Therapy Group is happy to help.
Q: What is Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy?
A: ABA therapy is considered the gold standard of autism treatment. It is the most studied and proven way to help children with autism learn, grow, and achieve their full potential. Read more about ABA therapy and how it can help your child on our “What is ABA Therapy” page.
Q: How can ABA therapy help my child?
A: ABA therapy can help your child learn necessary skills such as social, communication, reading, adaptive learning, fine motor, grooming, hygiene, and domestic capabilities. It can also help your child stop unwanted or dangerous behaviors.
Registered Behavior Technicians (RBTs) and Board Certified Behavioral Analysts (BCBAs) work with people with autism, using learning tools and positive reinforcement. With regular therapy sessions in your home or an ABA therapy clinic, your child can learn the skills they need to have successful relationships, schooling, and jobs.
Q: What is an IEP?
A: An IEP is an Individualized Education Program that defines a child’s special education instruction, supports, and services so a student can do well in school. IEPs are available in public schools from preschool through grade 12.
Q: Where is The Autism Therapy Group located?
A: The Autism Therapy Group is headquartered in Lombard, IL, but we have locations in Texas, Wisconsin, and other areas of Illinois as well. Our offices are located in our beautiful new ABA therapy clinic in Lombard. See if there is a location near you!
Q: What ABA therapy services does The Autism Therapy Group offer?
A: The Autism Therapy Group offers high-quality ABA therapy in two ways: in-home ABA therapy and clinic-based ABA therapy. Both options have many benefits. Learn more.
Q: Does The Autism Therapy Group offer in-home services?
A: Yes! The Autism Therapy Group has always offered in-home ABA therapy services. Your child’s RBT will come to your home and provide the best ABA therapy around to help your child learn, grow, and thrive.
Q: Will my insurance cover ABA therapy?
A: That depends on many factors. Some insurance providers cover ABA therapy. Please contact us, and we’d be happy to find out for you.