FAQs
Treatment for Autism FAQs
We understand that the path to getting treatment for autism can be a confusing process, but this is a great place to start.
Please review this attached list of frequently asked questions. They will hopefully give you a better grasp of what to expect at this point in your journey. At Helping Hands ABA, we are here to assist you and your family, and point you in the right direction.
Also, feel free to check out our Parent & Caregiver Orientation Handbook.
Watch Our FAQ Video
and have your questions answered by Helping Hands’ Executive Director,
Chana Tilson!
What are some symptoms of Autism?
Some symptoms you may encounter are intellectual disability, delayed speech, non-verbal, uncoordinated motor skills, repetitive body movement, lack of eye contact, or inability to communicate. Helping Hands ABA, P.C. utilizes ABA as it’s main treatment for autism. See the information below, which will show you what to expect from our program.
What is ABA?
Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) is the science of learning and behavior. ABA has many uses, including as a treatment for autism spectrum disorders (ASD). An ABA program involves first identifying the areas of growth for each child, then using reinforcement-based strategies to teach children to engage in related behaviors. ABA programs are highly individualized and will not look the same for any two children receiving services.
Is my child too high or low functioning for ABA?
ABA can help teach anything from early learning skills and verbal behavior, to complex social skills and activities of daily living. For this reason, learners at all levels can benefit from a carefully developed ABA program.
What kinds of skills will my child work on?
Your child may work on increasing verbal behavior, gaining independence in activities of daily living skills, learning coping strategies, or whatever other areas of growth are identified in their assessment. Every program is unique to the individual.
What does a typical session look like?
Sessions look different depending on each child’s treatment plan. Some children may learn best in a more structured setting, while other children may be working on skills in the natural setting. It is difficult to predict what a session will look like until we meet your child and assess their individual needs.
How will I know if ABA is working?
Our staff collects data on every behavior we target in a treatment program. This data is reviewed frequently by LBAs, and is used to monitor progress and to guide programmatic decision making. You may also notice the difference in your child’s behavior; parents have reported hearing more language, noticing their child playing differently, and a reduction in the frequency and intensity of interfering behaviors.
Where do services take place?
Services usually take place in your home or place of stay, or but can also take place at other locations as needed. We offer services in Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, and the Bronx.
What time do services take place?
We are flexible to the needs of your family. Services typically take place after school or on weekends.
How do I know if my insurance covers ABA services?
You can send us a copy of your insurance card and we will work with your insurance company on your behalf to determine coverage.
Do you have another question that is not on this list? Please contact us for more information, or visit our resource center.
Resources
Our Resource Center contains a list of professional colleagues in our field who we recommend to our families looking for additional services. Please check back with us frequently; this list is always developing as we continue to develop professional relationships with others.
Community Assistance Resources and Extended Services, Inc. (CARES)
465 Grand Street, Second Floor
New York, NY 10002
(212) 420-1999
CARES can help you with OPWDD eligibility and access to respite, community habilitation, counseling, parent training, and more.
Sarah Birnbaum
New York Special Needs Support
Website: nyspecialneeds.com
Phone: 212-666-7299
Email: sarah@nyspecialneeds.com
Sarah is an extremely knowledgeable parent advocate and special needs adviser who refers to her career as “the most fulfilling work.”
Aeri Pang
Managing Attorney
The Law Office of Elisa Hyman, P.C.
16 Madison Square West, 12th Floor
a/k/a 1115 Broadway, 12th Floor
New York, NY 10010
Office Phone: 212-293-8686
Office Fax: 212-293-8685
Direct: 646-572-9058
Email: apang@specialedlawyer.com
Aeri works with low income families in obtaining Applied Behavior Analysis services and more appropriate school placements