Assessment and Authorization Process

Assessment and Authorization Process

Our ABA Assessment & Authorization Process

Starting ABA therapy can feel like a big step — and we’re here to walk you through it. At Expectations Reimagined, we begin with a thorough assessment and insurance authorization process to ensure services are both clinically appropriate and covered by your health plan.

Step 1: Insurance Verification

Before we begin, our team will confirm your ABA insurance coverage and walk you through any copays, deductibles, or required documentation. We’re in network with several major insurance providers and happy to help guide families through the process.

Need help checking your benefits? Contact us and we'll happily help.

Step 2: Comprehensive ABA Assessment

Once coverage is confirmed, a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) will begin a multi-step assessment to understand your child’s strengths, challenges, and support needs.

The assessment includes:

Parent Interview

We begin by learning from you — the expert on your child. During the interview, we’ll ask about:

  • Developmental and medical history

  • Communication, behavior, and social-emotional functioning

  • Daily routines and family goals for therapy

This helps us set priorities that are meaningful and realistic.

Standardized Tools

We use tools like the Vineland Adaptive Behavior Scales or VB-MAPP to measure key developmental areas. These tools support more accurate treatment planning and are often requested by insurance providers.

Child Observation & Interaction

The BCBA will observe and engage with your child in a natural, play-based setting. This allows us to learn how your child communicates, plays, follows instructions, and responds to social interactions. We use this information to identify learning preferences and areas of opportunity.

Step 3: Personalized Treatment Plan & Authorization

After gathering data, the BCBA will design a customized ABA treatment plan tailored to your child’s needs. This includes:

  • Skill goals across communication, social interaction, and daily living

  • Strategies for addressing challenging behavior (if needed)

  • Recommended number of therapy hours per week

  • Details about session structure and parent involvement

We’ll review the plan with you, make adjustments as needed, and submit it to your insurance company for authorization.

Once the plan is approved, services can begin — typically within 1–2 weeks of assessment completion.

Your Partner from Day One

We know the process can feel overwhelming. That’s why we take time to answer your questions, explain each step, and help you feel confident moving forward.

Whether you’re new to ABA or transitioning from another provider, you’re not alone — and we’re ready to help.

Ready to Get Started?

Let’s take the first step together.
Call us at 410-271-0056, email Tricia@ExpectationsReimagined.com, or fill out our contact form to begin the intake process.