If your child has been diagnosed with autism, you’ve almost certainly heard about ABA therapy. It’s recommended by pediatricians, covered by Medicaid, and backed by decades of research — but what does it actually look like in practice? Here’s what you need to know as a parent.
What Is Applied Behavior Analysis?
Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) is a therapeutic approach based on the science of learning and behavior. It uses systematic, data-driven techniques to:
- Build communication and language skills
- Teach daily living skills (dressing, eating, toileting)
- Develop social skills
- Reduce behaviors that interfere with learning or safety
- Increase independence
ABA is endorsed by the American Psychological Association, the U.S. Surgeon General, and the American Academy of Pediatrics as an evidence-based treatment for autism.
How Does an ABA Session Work?
A typical ABA session is structured but flexible. Here’s what you might see:
- Discrete trial training (DTT): Short, structured teaching moments with clear instructions, prompts, and positive reinforcement
- Natural environment teaching (NET): Learning embedded into play and everyday routines — building a block tower, going to the park, making a snack
- Functional communication training: Teaching your child to communicate their needs using words, pictures, or devices instead of challenging behavior
- Reinforcement: Desired behaviors are immediately rewarded with something meaningful to your child (praise, a preferred toy, a short activity)
Sessions are led by a Registered Behavior Technician (RBT) under the supervision of a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA). Aspire’s RBTs work 1-on-1 with your child while our BCBAs design the program, track data, and adjust strategies regularly.
What Age Is ABA Most Effective?
Research consistently shows that earlier intervention leads to better outcomes. ABA is most impactful when started between ages 2 and 5, when the brain is most plastic — but meaningful progress is possible at any age. Aspire serves children and young adults from birth through age 21.
How Many Hours of ABA Does My Child Need?
It depends on your child’s individual assessment. Research suggests:
- 10–20 hours/week: Mild to moderate needs; often combined with school services
- 20–40 hours/week: Moderate to significant needs; intensive early intervention
Your child’s BCBA will recommend a specific number of hours based on their assessment, goals, and your family’s schedule. Insurance authorization is based on clinical need.
What Results Should I Expect?
Every child is different, but families typically report:
- Improved communication (first words, longer sentences, functional requests)
- Reduced meltdowns and self-injurious behavior
- Better participation at school
- Improved daily living skills
- More positive family interactions
At Aspire, we set measurable goals every 6 months and share progress reports with your family at every stage. You are a partner in your child’s program — not just a bystander.
Is ABA Covered by Medicaid?
Yes. In Minnesota, ABA therapy for children with autism is covered under the EIDBI benefit through Medical Assistance at no cost to the family. Most Minnesota Medicaid plans cover it, including MHCP, UCare, Hennepin Health, and Blue Plus.
Getting Started with ABA at Aspire
Aspire Counseling provides ABA therapy in Bloomington, MN, with community-based services throughout the metro area. Our team is experienced, culturally responsive, and genuinely committed to your child’s growth.
Call us at (952) 600-4940 or start your intake online. We’ll respond within 1 business day.