FAQs
Frequently asked questions about G.I.F.T. programs and services
What is ABA (Applied Behavior Analysis)?
ABA is a science-based approach that uses data to understand how and why behaviors occur. ABA addresses skill deficits and challenging behaviors by teaching meaningful, functional skills that improve communication, social interaction, independence, and daily living. Services are individualized based on assessments and ongoing data to support measurable progress. ABA collaborates with parents, families, schools, and other service providers to promote positive outcomes and help individuals reach developmental and functional goals.
Who can benefit from ABA?
Anyone can benefit from ABA as it is not exclusive to children or to any diagnosis rather that based on behaviors serving a purpose and affected by one’s surroundings. ABA is backed by evidence-based methods for improving a wide range of skills.
Why is ABA useful?
ABA is an evidence-based therapy that is individualized to address the needs and concerns of individual receiving the therapy.
Where does ABA therapy take place?
As ABA can take place anywhere, our primary focus is providing therapy in the clinical controlled setting, here in our building. We meet the needs in your home and community by working closely with your family during parent trainings.
What happens during my child’s sessions?
Sessions are individualized to fit your child’s needs- targeting the skills appropriate for your child, teaching via structured learning and during play, pairing (getting to know your child and interest changes) to build trust and motivation to learn, ongoing data collection to ensure your child is making progress towards set goals.
Can I join my child in session?
Absolutely! We love parents being supportive and interested in your child’s progress; however, we do encourage the space for your child to learn with the staff as well.
What are challenging behaviors?
Challenging behaviors are behaviors that you want to see less of. These behaviors are also often referred to as problem behaviors or reduction behaviors. Commonly these behaviors are identified as aggression (hitting, kicking, biting, etc.), tantrums, crying, property destruction (throwing items, hitting or kicking items, pushing over items, swiping, etc.), running away.
What is parent training/parent guidance?
It is a structured program that teaches parents about ABA strategies to use in their homes and daily life to promote desirable outcomes via long-term skill building. This is the space for you to express your concerns and challenges; therefore, your analyst can understand what is happening to assist with desirable outcomes and your child’s progress.
Do I have to participate in parent training?
Although it is not a legal requirement, insurance does require parents to meet with the analyst. In addition , it is a critical component for your child’s success and progress. It is designed to ensure behavior changes that are of an importance to you and your child’s development are long-lasting. Consistency is key. Research also shows that parents who participate can reduce challenging behaviors by nearly 48%.
Is Autism Spectrum Disorder common?
Yes. You are not alone on this journey. Data from the CDC in 2025 indicate that 1 in 31 children are diagnosed with ASD and boys are nearly 4 times more likely to being diagnosed than girls.
What are the signs of Autism Spectrum Disorder?
The common signs include but are not limited to challenges with social communication and interactions, restricted communication and interactions, repetitive behaviors (hand-flapping), difficulty with eye contact, language delays, intense interests, sensory sensitivities (light, sound), rigid routines, and behavioral challenges.
Does my insurance cover ABA?
ABA therapy is widely covered by insurances especially for those diagnosed with ASD; however, coverage depends on your specific plan, state regulations, and medical necessity. We encourage you to contact your provider for additional questions regarding what your insurance does and does not cover.
When is it best to intervene?
As early as possible- ABA can be effective at any age. Early intervention yields the most significant, long-term outcomes especially between 2 and 6 when brain plasticity with at its highest.
Did I cause my child to have an Autism diagnosis?
The cause of ASD is unknown. Scientists believe ASD is a result of bot genetic and environment factors. ASD is NOT caused by parenting- so take a deep breath.
What is the role of RBT?
A Registered Behavior Technician (RBT) works one on one with your child to implement ABA interventions under CLOSE supervision of a Board-Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA). They focus on teaching new skills and increasing desirable behaviors.
What is the role of BCBA?
A Board-Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) is a graduate level professional who is responsible for overseeing your child’s case. The BCBA designs the interventions and procedures while training and supervising the RBT(s) assigned to the case to improve behaviors and skills. The BCBA conducts assessments with your child to monitor your child’s delays and progress towards milestones, analyze the data and progress, and work closely alongside those involved in your child’s life.
What is direct therapy?
This is the individualized therapy that takes place with the RBT, BCBA, or both to teach skills and reduce challenging behaviors.
Can ABA cure my child’s Autism Spectrum Disorder diagnosis?
ABA is NOT a cure, as ASD is not a disease; ASD is a neurodevelopmental condition. However, ABA is an evidence-based therapy that is widely recognized as an effective approach to improve developmental outcomes and quality of life.