Parenting is one of life’s greatest joys and challenges. As the parent of a child with autism, every day can bring more discoveries and new learning moments. Some parents have described it as learning how to build a plane while flying it, but with the right support, you can conquer any challenge.
From Bucktown to Lincoln Park, parents have something in common — trying to understand whether ABA therapy for children with autism will help them on this journey. Naturally, you’ll have questions when seeking autism support in Chicago, like how ABA therapy works, how long it takes, and what to expect in a session.
What Is ABA Therapy?
Applied behavior analysis (ABA) is a therapy based on the science of learning and behavior that uses evidence-based techniques to help people increase helpful behaviors and skills. Therapists find the therapy helpful for those diagnosed on the autism spectrum, as approaches adapt to each person’s needs and challenges. The therapy adjusts to your child, meeting them where they are instead of expecting them to adapt.
The model supports children on the autism spectrum and any child who could benefit from extra guidance as they work to achieve developmental milestones. In the early 1900s, the emergence of behaviorism paved the way for many modern therapies, and what followed were decades of refinement of processes and treatments. It was with Dr. Ivar Lovaas’s language therapy in the mid-sixties that ABA found its footing.
In recent years, the therapy has developed into naturalistic, play-based education that focuses on positive reinforcement. Parents are also part of the therapy, allowing you to maintain consistency at home and get the best possible results.
How Does ABA Therapy Work?
ABA uses a supportive process that helps children build skills through a series of tested and structured ABA therapy activities. Here’s what the process looks like:
Comprehensive Assessment
A board-certified behavior analyst (BCBA) is the first step in ABA, and they assess your child before therapy starts. The BCBA runs tests, lets your child complete assessments, and identifies their strengths and weaknesses before recommending a route for therapy. The pre-work and initial consultations determine which discipline to develop, such as social skills or communication.
Personalized Goal Setting
Your BCBA designs a therapy plan for your child based on the assessment results. They use the data from the tests to map out progress-focused goals. Therapists break each goal down into smaller steps to feel more achievable. Encourage your child to move along at their own pace and don’t feel overwhelmed with the process.
Reinforcement-Based Learning
One of the FAQs on ABA therapy that Chicago parents often ask is whether this pediatric therapy program is harmful to their child. ABA has changed over the years by replacing discipline-based therapy with reward-based therapy. The result is an open, more responsive child. The rewards can range from toys and special activities to praise, and the small wins all add up to lasting behavioral growth.
Ongoing Data Collection and Progress Tracking
Therapists take notes and measure the progress during each session, as the information populates data maps that show which areas future sessions should focus on. Here is an example of what this may look like:
If your child is working on using words to request a snack instead of crying, the therapist tracks each time the child tries to say “cracker” or “juice.” Over several sessions, the therapist can see if your child increases the number of successful requests. If progress slows, the BCBA reviews the information, identifies roadblocks, and tweaks the approach. They may change up the therapy by offering a different reward or altering how the prompt is given.
Team Collaboration and Caregiver Involvement
What happens outside the clinic matters as much as what happens inside. Behavior therapy for children in Chicago often includes other modalities, such as occupational, physical, and speech therapists.
Therapy requires collaboration between all parties to be successful, including you and other professionals involved in your child’s development. Coordination between all therapists during ABA maintains momentum and helps ensure true growth.
At What Age Can My Child Start ABA Therapy?
The approachable nature of ABA therapy makes it suitable for children from a very young age. Organizations such as the Chicago Pediatric Therapy & Wellness Center help children from infancy to school age to ensure developmental continuity. Most children are between the ages of two and six when they start, and there’s no ABA therapy age limit.
Research suggests that early intervention therapies for children with autism, such as ABA, are beneficial. Younger children often experience the most favorable results, as their brains are still developing and are far more “plastic” or malleable.
Another study showed that the children responded better in one-on-one interactions where their parents were present than in therapies performed in groups.
Autism support centers in Chicago, such as Chicago Pediatric Therapy & Wellness Center, are registered with Illinois’ Early Intervention (EI) Program, which serves children from birth to three years old.
During this phase, parents and therapists identify developmental needs and start behavioral interventions.
What Happens During an ABA Therapy Session?
ABA sessions are designed to be engaging and allow you, as a parent, to join in on your child’s therapy journey. While you remain a big part of the therapy, sessions are child-centered and include play as a form of teaching.
The ABA therapists focus on discovering your child’s strengths and growth areas, making small adjustments for gradual improvement. A typical session looks like this:
Warm Up and Connection
Sessions begin with a quick check-in so your therapist can gauge your child’s mood or state of mind before moving on to a connection activity. The connection could include something that they know your child enjoys, especially if it’s a low-mood day. These activities can include a song, playing with their favorite toy, or a physical activity.
Targeted Skill Practice
A focused activity immediately follows while the therapist has your child’s attention. The therapist will teach everyday skills, communication, and imitation actions so your child can recognize and practice social cues and skills.
Your child will practice these skills one at a time, as the goal is to immerse themselves in the activity and still feel confident and willing to own the new skill. Targeted skill practice activities include labeling emotions and practicing turn-taking, while the therapist tracks progress in real time.
Play-Based and Social Learning
There are few better ways to learn than through play, as your child is happy and relaxed and blissfully unaware that they’re developing new skills. Play-based learning reduces the pressure on children to perform. Some of the ways therapists can introduce play therapy are through games that encourage children to ask for help or activities where they practice greetings.
Environment for Growth
Therapists typically work in smaller rooms during one-on-one sessions to encourage focus and attention, while physical activities usually take place in a play gym. Group areas can accommodate larger groups and are more suitable for developing social skills.
How Long Are ABA Therapy Sessions and How Often Should You Go?
Therapists design ABA sessions to support your child’s developmental needs. The duration of the sessions and the number of times your child has to go for therapy depend on their needs and capabilities. A consistent schedule is beneficial and more likely to yield positive results.
The program is created with positive sessions based on your child’s developmental needs, attention span, and age. Younger children may start with short sessions that focus mostly on play.
As their stamina increases, so will their ability to work through longer sessions. Therapists may also break the sessions up a little between the various therapy disciplines to keep your child engaged.
Is ABA Therapy Covered by Insurance in Illinois?
Illinois recognizes the importance of therapy for children with autism. State law requires many insurance providers to include ABA as a medically necessary treatment for autism spectrum disorder (ASD).
ABA therapy coverage is also supported under federal mandates like the Affordable Care Act. Families can typically expect coverage for:
- Initial assessments and evaluations of your child by a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA)
- One-on-one therapy sessions with a registered behavior technician (RBT) under BCBA supervision
- Program oversight and data review conducted by the BCBA
- Parent or caregiver training sessions to support your child’s skill-building at home
- Progress reports and reauthorization reviews as required by insurance
ABA therapy is covered by most large plans, including Blue Cross Blue Shield, UnitedHealthcare, and Aetna. The coverage details, such as the number of approved hours and session limits, can vary between policies.
It’s important to verify your benefits before you start therapy. If they are working with a clinic such as Chicago Pediatric Therapy & Wellness Center, we will confirm benefits and let you know if there are copayments on their plan.
Other FAQs about ABA therapy coverage in Chicago include:
- Whether ABA therapy is included in your plan
- What documentation or diagnosis codes are required
- If prior authorization is needed before therapy begins
What Does Insurance Typically Cover During ABA Therapy Sessions?
Thanks to both federal and Illinois state mandates, many major insurance plans now cover ABA therapy for children diagnosed with autism. This is a noticeable win for parents who previously had to pay for sessions out of pocket or go through hours of motivation and appeals for minimal financial support. The amount of coverage and which types of ABA services are covered depend on the plan.
- Initial assessments and evaluations: A Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) conducts a comprehensive assessment to identify the strengths and challenges of each child. This evaluation is required for coverage approval.
- Direct one-on-one therapy: Insurance typically covers the time your child spends working directly with a registered behavior technician (RBT) under the supervision of a BCBA.
- Supervision and program oversight: The BCBA’s time reviewing data and adjusting goals is often included in coverage.
- Parent training sessions: Many plans recognize your involvement as an essential part of ABA and include a limited number of parent education sessions.
- Progress reports and reauthorizations: Insurance companies often require periodic progress reports to renew authorization for continued therapy.
How Long Does ABA Therapy Take to Work?
Some of the most frequently asked questions about ABA therapy in Chicago are how long it takes to see developmental milestones, how quickly progress appears depends on your child’s age, the frequency of sessions, and how consistently you practice the new skills at home.
The greatest progress happens when therapy strategies are carried over at home, turning everyday moments into opportunities for learning and connection. The teamwork between you and the therapist allows your child to transfer their skills into real-life situations more efficiently.
ABA therapy takes time, and every small step forward matters. Celebrate those moments — they’re the foundation for bigger breakthroughs.
Can My Child Get ABA Therapy Without an Autism Diagnosis?
ABA therapy is beneficial to children with other behavioral, social, or developmental delays. You can sign your child up for the therapy without a formal diagnosis, but it is vital to check in with your insurance first, as some will require your child to complete their autism diagnosis first.
Explore ABA Therapy With Chicago Pediatric Therapy & Wellness Center
Finding answers is the first step toward helping your child grow with more confidence and connection. ABA therapy gently supports your child’s journey toward stronger communication and social skills.
At Chicago Pediatric Therapy & Wellness Center, we can assist with long-term, meaningful treatment plans for your child. Our experienced therapists lead sessions and teach you how to use therapy techniques at home so your child can keep on practicing.
Give us a call to schedule an appointment or find out more about ABA therapy today.
Important Note: This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Every child is unique, and ABA therapy programs are individualized to meet each child’s specific needs. Always consult with qualified healthcare providers and Board Certified Behavior Analysts regarding your child’s care.
