A plain guide for parents of autistic children and young people in the Seattle area: what ABA is, who it helps, what it looks like at home, and how to decide.
Applied Behavior Analysis is a way of teaching skills and reducing behavior that gets in the way of daily life, by breaking skills into steps, practising them where they are used, and measuring what works. Washington's Health Care Authority describes it as personalised care where goals, settings and hours depend on each person's needs, delivered by providers who track progress and reduce services as the person improves. Done well, it looks like play with a purpose, and it changes as your child does.
Children and young people with autism or another developmental disability whose communication, behavior or social skills make it hard to take part at home, at school or in the community. That is also the standard Washington uses for coverage: a Center of Excellence provider documents the impairment and how it affects daily life, then orders ABA.
Same approach, different goals. Evergreen Pathways serves ages 2 to 22.
First words and requests, play with others, following simple routines, mealtimes, sleep and toilet learning. Sessions look like play on the living room floor, with you learning the strategies as you go.
What this looks like
Communication at school and home, friendships, homework routines, transitions, and plans for behavior that gets in the way of learning. We coordinate with teachers so everyone uses the same approach.
What this looks like
Independence: cooking, hygiene, money, buses and light rail, self-advocacy, managing frustration, and planning for life after school. The young person helps write the goals.
What this looks likeChildren, teenagers and young adults ages 2 to 22 with autism or another developmental disability for which ABA is recommended, living in King, Pierce, Snohomish, Thurston or Kitsap County, Washington.
No. Call first. To start ABA under Apple Health your child will need an evaluation and ABA order from a Center of Excellence provider; we will explain how to get one and get your child on our list while you wait.
In your home and in your community: the park, the grocery store, the bus. Telehealth is available for parent coaching and some supervision.
It depends on the assessment, your child's age and goals, and what your family can sustain. The BCBA recommends hours, your plan authorizes them, and they are reviewed as your child progresses. There is no fixed number.
A behavior technician runs most sessions, under the close supervision of a Board Certified Behavior Analyst who assesses your child, writes the plan and coaches you. Ask us about credentials, background checks and supervision at any time.
We aim for a consistent technician because consistency helps children. Ask us how coverage works for sickness and holidays.
Call during office hours or email your name and phone number. We listen first and explain what an assessment would cover. Please keep health details out of email.
