ABA, short for "Applied Behavior Analysis" is an intensive therapy focused on understanding how behaviors change, how the environment influences them and how learning occurs. As an autism therapy program, its goal is to promote desirable behaviors while reducing those that hinder learning. Empower Therapy aims to develop and strengthen socially significant behaviors and enhance an individual's quality of life by imparting essential knowledge, skills and abilities.

Children who are not meeting key developmental milestones may exhibit early signs of autism. Some possible indicators include:

   

Social behaviors: Limited eye contact or reluctance to engage in physical affection.

Language development issues: Delays such as not babbling by seven months or struggling to form sentences by age two.

Behavioral traits: Intense focus or fixation on certain objects.

Sensory sensitivities: Discomfort or difficulty with loud or unexpected noises.

   

These signs can help guide early evaluations for autism.

Deciding if ABA therapy is right for your child is a personal choice that only you as a parent can make. The team at Empower Therapy suggests consulting with your child’s pediatrician and any specialists involved in their care or education to help guide this decision. It is important to note that ABA therapy is supported by decades of research and is endorsed by key organizations such as the U.S. Surgeon General, the American Psychological Association and Autism Speaks. Since ABA focuses on a wide range of skills, it is essential to discuss your priorities as a parent during the treatment planning process and throughout your child's therapy journey.

ABA therapy is most effective when delivered intensively, the recommended number of hours typically ranges from 10 to 40 hours per week, based on your child’s specific needs. In most cases, fewer than 10 hours per week is not sufficient to see meaningful progress. The clinical team will determine the appropriate number of therapy hours for your child after completing their assessment and developing a tailored treatment plan.

Empower therapy program includes a weekly family training session where the family meets with the BCBA. During these meetings, families are taught how to implement interventions, review progress and address any concerns or behavioral issues. This collaborative approach with families has proven to be one of the most effective aspects of the therapy process.

Yes, insurance covers ABA services and we accept most major insurance plans. Our admissions team works with families to verify insurance coverage, provide an overview of financial commitments and help create plans and lessen surprises along the path to receiving ABA therapy. Please contact us for assistance in verifying your individual coverage and to discuss considerations.

After the patient’s deductible has been satisfied, the insurance carrier will share the costs of the healthcare services. Coinsurance is typically a percentage of the amount that the insurance carrier allows to be charged for services.

How it works: You have paid $1,500 in health care expenses and met your deductible. When you go to the doctor, instead of paying all costs, you and your health plan share the cost. For example, your health plan pays 70%. The 30% you pay is your coinsurance.

A copay is a fixed amount that a patient pays for healthcare services. This amount can vary depending on the type or location of service.

How it works: Your health plan determines what your copay is for different types of services and when you have one. You may have a copay before you have finished paying toward your deductible. You may also have a copay after you pay your deductible and when you owe coinsurance.

MHRCM is responsible for managing the billing department for Empower Therapy. This means that MHRCM will track your bills and send statements directly to you, allowing for a more streamlined billing process and ensuring consistency in financial communications. This arrangement helps both organizations maintain clarity and efficiency in their billing practices.