An ABA assessment is a set of visits in which a Board Certified Behavior Analyst interviews the family, observes the child at home, measures current skills, studies the purpose of any challenging behavior, and writes an individualised treatment plan with measurable goals. The plan is then sent to the insurer for authorization before sessions begin.
The parent interview
It starts with you: your child's history, what a good day and a hard day look like, what you most want to change, your family's routines, languages, culture and schedule. Bring the COE evaluation, any school reports and a list of questions.
Skills assessment
The BCBA observes and plays with your child and uses structured assessment tools to map communication, social, play, self-care and learning skills. The point is a baseline: where your child is today, so progress can be measured honestly later.
Functional behavior assessment
If there is behavior that gets in the way, such as hitting, running off or long meltdowns, the BCBA looks at what happens before and after it to understand what the behavior does for your child: escape a demand, get attention, get an item, or meet a sensory need. The behavior plan teaches a safer, easier way to meet the same need.
Goals, hours and the plan
The written plan lists specific goals, how each will be measured, the recommended hours and settings, parent training goals, and how often the BCBA will review it. In Washington, Apple Health requires prior authorization of this plan before services start, and reviews it on a schedule based on progress.
Your role
You approve the goals. If a goal does not matter to your family, it comes off the list. If something is missing, it goes on. The plan should read like your child, not like a template.
Common questions
How many visits is the assessment?
Usually several visits over a few weeks, depending on the child and the plan's requirements. The BCBA will tell you the schedule at the first visit.
Does my child need to perform during the assessment?
No. Observation during ordinary play and routines is the most useful data. A child who is having a hard day is still giving the BCBA information.
- Washington Health Care Authority, Applied Behavior Analysis
- WAC 182-531A-0400, ABA client eligibility
- Behavior Analyst Certification Board
This article is general information for families in Washington State, not medical advice or a promise of coverage or outcomes. Rules change; check the linked sources and your plan.
Talk to Evergreen Pathways
In-home ABA for ages 2 to 22 across King, Pierce, Snohomish, Thurston, Kitsap counties.
Call (206) 796-4797