Question 1

How many hours per week of ABA does my child need?

Accepted Answer

The number of hours your child requires will depend on how far behind they are in certain skill areas. The clinical directors at North Shore Health Services will work with the case managers who complete the assessment to make a recommendation on how many hours of therapy your child should receive. The intensity of services can be adjusted as the child gains new skills and is re-evaluated routinely throughout your child’s treatment.

Question 2

How many people will be working with my child?

Accepted Answer

This varies based on the number of hours your child is receiving. Some children see only a case manager (BCBA) and 1 other therapist. Others have multiple therapists in addition to their case manager (BCBA).

Question 3

What does the research on ABA show?

Accepted Answer

Over the past 40 years, a number of peer-reviewed studies have been completed evaluating the effects of using a specific group of ABA techniques in a “comprehensive, individualized, intensive early intervention program for children with autism,” achieving extremely positive results.  “Comprehensive” refers to the fact that intervention addressees all types of skills; “Early” means that intervention began before the age of four for most children in many of the studies; and “Intensive” referred to the number of hours / week received by the children (ranges between 25-40 hours per week).

Question 4

How do we get started?

Accepted Answer

The first step is filling out our "consultation request" form or giving us a call at (269) 389-0265. We will reach out to you so we can discuss everything to start services with your family.

Question 5

What does an ABA session look like?

Accepted Answer

A typical Applied Behavior Analysis session usually lasts between 2 and 6 hours. ABA sessions are data-driven and progress is based around the use of reinforcing items. Children learn to follow adult directions/expectations by earning what is reinforcing to them. Sessions are developed specifically to meet a child’s individual needs. The behavior therapist is the person who implements the sessions under the guidance of a BCBA. The behavior therapist’s role is to engage kids while teaching them necessary skills and how to engage in appropriate behavior. Programming and skills are broken down into manageable teaching moments to help ensure child success!

You Ask — We Answer

Common Questions

How many hours per week of ABA does my child need?

How many people will be working with my child?

What does the research on ABA show?

How do we get started?

What does an ABA session look like?