ABA Therapy FAQs

Does my child need a formal diagnosis to start ABA therapy?

A formal diagnosis is typically required for insurance coverage. Without one, most plans will not authorize services. If your child does not yet have a diagnosis, our team can help you understand your options and next steps.

What diagnoses qualify a child for ABA therapy?

Autism spectrum disorder is the most commonly covered diagnosis. However, ABA is also used with children who have ADHD, developmental delays, intellectual disabilities, and other neurodevelopmental differences. Coverage for conditions other than autism varies by plan and state, so it is worth verifying your specific benefits.

What does a typical ABA session look like?

Sessions are one-on-one between your child and a trained therapist. The therapist works through your child’s goals using positive reinforcement, structured activities, and natural teaching opportunities. Most children settle into the rhythm quickly, and sessions tend to feel purposeful rather than stressful.

How long does ABA therapy take to work?

Every child moves at their own pace, and there is no single timeline. Many families start noticing changes at home within the first few months. Skill development takes consistent work over time, and the pace depends on your child’s goals and starting point. At Lexington Center for Children, we track progress at every session, so you always know how things are moving.

How many hours of ABA therapy are needed?

There is no one-size-fits-all answer. Some children benefit from a focused program of 10 to 15 hours per week. Others with broader developmental goals may need 25 to 40 hours. Your child’s BCBA will assess their needs and recommend an intensity level that fits your child and your family’s schedule.

What is the difference between focused and comprehensive ABA therapy?

Focused ABA targets a specific set of goals, such as a particular behavior or communication skill, with fewer weekly hours. Comprehensive ABA addresses a wider range of developmental areas simultaneously and is typically more intensive. The right approach depends on where your child is right now and what they need most.

How is progress measured in ABA therapy?

Therapists collect data at every session, recording how your child responds to each goal. Your supervising BCBA reviews that data regularly and uses it to adjust the program when needed. You will receive consistent updates, so progress is never a guessing game.

Will ABA therapy work for my child if they are older?

Yes. ABA is effective across a wide range of ages, not just young children. Older children and adolescents can make meaningful progress, though the goals and approach may look different from an early intervention program. Age is not a barrier to benefit.

What if my child resists therapy or has a difficult first session?

Resistance at the start is more common than most parents expect. A good therapist builds trust gradually, starting with what motivates your child rather than diving straight into structured work. One hard session does not predict how therapy will go. Share what you observe with your child’s therapist so they can adjust their approach.

Do parents need to be involved in ABA sessions?

Parent involvement is encouraged and built into how we work at Lexington Center for Children. You do not need to sit in on every session. You will receive regular updates and learn strategies to reinforce your child’s goals at home. Children tend to make faster progress when we work together and follow the same plan.

Does ABA use punishment to change behavior?

No. A quality ABA program focuses on positive reinforcement, not punishment. When a challenging behavior occurs, the focus is on understanding what is driving it and teaching a more effective alternative. Punitive strategies are not part of our approach at Lexington Center for Children.

How long will my child need ABA therapy overall?

Program length depends on your child’s goals and how quickly they progress. Some children complete their goals within a year. Others benefit from longer support. Your child’s BCBA sets clear benchmarks, so you always know where things stand and what comes next.

What happens during the assessment before therapy begins?

A Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) evaluates your child’s skills, identifies where support would help, and builds a plan around your child. The assessment typically takes a few sessions. Your team will keep you informed throughout and walk you through the results before anything begins.

How do I know if Lexington Center for Children is the right fit?

The best way to find out is through a conversation. Our team will ask about your child, answer your questions, and be honest about whether we are the right fit for your child. There is no commitment required to reach out.

Still Have ABA Therapy Questions? Let’s Talk.

If something is not covered here, our team at Lexington Center for Children would love to hear from you. Every family’s situation is different. We are happy to answer your specific questions directly. Reach out to schedule a consultation and let us help you figure out the right next step for your child.