Next Steps

In this month’s edition of MetroParent Gateway’s Vice President of Clinical Development and Strategy, Rachel Enright provides next steps for families to take after a loved one is diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder. Rachel breaks down the next steps into three main components. Families seeking applied behavior analysis (ABA) services should begin by contacting the ABA company to an initial conversation with the intake team, followed by allowing the ABA company to work with the family’s insurance provider, and finally schedule and complete an ABA assessment to begin therapy.

The Intake Process

Rachel explains, “during the intake call, a member of our [Gateway] team will ask questions about the child, gather background information, and generally start to understand what the family needs.” The intake process is Gateway’s first opportunity to welcome and create a relationship with the family. This is a great opportunity for families to ask questions and make sure it’s the right fit. She goes on to say, “The intake process is really about having a conversation. We appreciate when families ask us questions about our services or how we handle particular situations.” During the intake the family will also provide relevant insurance documentation and diagnostic information.

Working with the Family’s Provider

Each insurance provider can require different types of documentation. It’s important for the ABA company to communicate with the provider prior to beginning therapy to make sure continuing is in the family’s best interest and that all required documentation is provided. Rachel let’s readers know, “Our team is here to help families navigate the insurance process…We’ve worked with many families and many insurance networks over the years and are able to share our knowledge of that process.” Because Gateway is familiar with many insurance companies, we are able to help bridge the gap in communication to create a smooth transition into therapy.

The Initial ABA Assessment

Once all preliminary discussions are completed the family schedules an initial assessment. Rachel goes on to say, “During the assessment in our office, we start to get to know the child and hear what the family is experiencing on a daily basis and ultimately work together to start short-term and long-term goals.” The initial assessment is different that the diagnosis in that this assessment allows the child’s BCBA to see what should be target during therapy and added to the child’s treatment plan. Once the assessment is completed and the BCBA submits the treatment plan to the insurance provider the family ready to start ABA therapy.

Gateway understands that navigating next steps after a diagnosis can be difficult. We would love to have a conversation with you or someone you know to help provide additional direction. Please feel free to visit our website for additional information. Have a great day!