Frequently Asked Questions – Astute Early ABA Services
Answers to the questions families ask us most. If you don't see what you're looking for, call or text us at 910-400-6392 — we're happy to help.
Getting Started
How do I know if my child needs ABA therapy? If your child has been diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) or another developmental difference, and is experiencing challenges with communication, social skills, daily living, or behavior, ABA therapy may be a great fit. The best first step is a free consultation with our team — we'll talk through your child's strengths and challenges and help you determine if ABA is the right path forward.
What age does my child need to be to start ABA therapy? We provide ABA therapy for children and young adults from 18 months through age 21. Early intervention is highly effective, and we encourage families to reach out as soon as possible after a diagnosis — but it's never too late to start.
Does my child need an autism diagnosis to receive ABA therapy? In most cases, yes. Insurance carriers — including Medicaid and TRICARE — typically require a current autism diagnosis from a qualified practitioner such as a developmental pediatrician, child psychologist, psychiatrist, or neurologist before authorizing ABA services. If your child does not yet have a diagnosis, we can help point you in the right direction.
How do I get started with Astute Early ABA Services? It's simple. Call or text us at 910-400-6392 for a free consultation, or submit our short intake form online. We will meet with you in person or virtually to discuss your child's needs, verify your insurance, and walk you through every step of the process. We typically respond within 1–2 business days.
How long does the intake process take? Most families are able to begin services within 4–6 weeks of first contact. Insurance verification is usually completed within 3–7 business days. The BCBA assessment typically takes 1–3 weeks. We work hard to move quickly because we know every day matters.
About ABA Therapy
What is ABA therapy? Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) is a scientifically proven approach to understanding and improving behavior. It uses evidence-based strategies to help children develop communication, social, and daily living skills, while reducing behaviors that may interfere with learning or safety. ABA is individualized — no two programs look exactly the same — and it is the gold standard treatment for Autism Spectrum Disorder.
Is ABA therapy safe for my child? Yes. ABA therapy is one of the most rigorously researched interventions in the field of child development. At Astute, we use positive, play-based approaches that respect your child's individuality. Our programs are designed to build skills and confidence — never to change who your child is. All of our clinicians are certified, supervised, and held to the highest ethical standards set by the Behavior Analyst Certification Board (BACB).
How is ABA therapy different from other therapies? ABA focuses specifically on behavior, communication, and skill-building using data-driven methods. Unlike speech or occupational therapy, ABA sessions are typically longer and more frequent, and they target a wide range of goals at once. ABA also heavily involves parent coaching, so the skills your child learns carry over into everyday life — not just the therapy session.
How many hours per week will my child need? Most children receive between 10 and 30 hours of ABA therapy per week. The exact number depends on your child's age, the intensity their program requires, and their school schedule. Sessions range from 2 to 6 hours. Your child's BCBA will recommend the appropriate level of intensity after completing the initial assessment.
Where does therapy take place? We bring therapy to your child. Services are available in the home, at school, and at daycare across Fayetteville, Raeford, and Spring Lake, NC. Delivering therapy in your child's natural environment helps ensure that skills are learned and used in real life — not just during sessions.
What does a typical ABA session look like? Sessions are run by a trained Registered Behavior Technician (RBT) under the supervision of a BCBA. A typical session includes a mix of play-based learning, structured activities, and natural teaching opportunities. Your child's RBT will work on the specific goals outlined in their individualized treatment plan, collecting data throughout the session to track progress.
How long will my child need ABA therapy? Every child is different. Some children reach their goals in a year or two, while others benefit from longer-term support. Progress is reviewed every 6 months, and your child's program is updated to reflect their growth and evolving goals. You and your family are part of every decision about the pace and direction of therapy.
Insurance & Cost
Does insurance cover ABA therapy? In most cases, yes. ABA therapy for autism is covered by most major insurance plans in North Carolina, including Medicaid and TRICARE. Coverage varies by plan, so we verify your specific benefits before services begin — at no cost to you. We handle the paperwork so you can focus on your child.
Do you accept Medicaid? Yes. We proudly accept NC Medicaid and work with families across all income levels. If you have Medicaid coverage for your child, we will verify their benefits and walk you through the authorization process.
Do you accept TRICARE? Yes. We accept TRICARE Prime and TRICARE Select and have a deep commitment to serving military families in the Fort Liberty community and surrounding areas. We understand the unique challenges that come with military life — including frequent relocations — and we are committed to providing flexible, responsive care for your family.
How long does insurance verification take? We prioritize insurance verification because we know that waiting for answers is stressful. Most families receive confirmation of their benefits within 24 to 72 hours of reaching out to us.
What if my insurance isn't listed on your website? Please contact us anyway. We are continuously expanding our network and will do our best to work with your plan. If we are not yet in-network with your carrier, we will help you explore all available options so your child can still access care.
Parent Involvement
What is parent coaching and is it required? Parent coaching is a structured part of your child's ABA program where our BCBA works directly with you to teach the same strategies your child is learning in therapy. Most insurance plans require parent training as part of an authorized ABA program. More importantly, it works — children make faster, more lasting progress when parents and caregivers are active partners in therapy.
How involved do I need to be in my child's therapy? Very involved — and that's a good thing. We believe parents are the most important members of your child's therapy team. You'll participate in regular parent coaching sessions, receive updates after sessions, and be encouraged to practice skills with your child between appointments. We make it as easy and practical as possible to fit into your family's life.
How will I know if my child is making progress? Progress is tracked with data collected during every single session. Your BCBA reviews this data regularly and meets with you monthly or bi-weekly to discuss your child's growth, celebrate wins, and adjust goals as needed. Goals are formally reviewed and updated every 6 months. You will always know exactly where your child stands and what comes next.
Your Team
Who will be working with my child? Your child's team consists of a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA), a Qualified Autism Service Practitioner – Supervisor (QASP-S), and one or more Registered Behavior Technicians (RBTs). The BCBA designs and oversees your child's program, the QASP-S supports clinical management and supervision, and the RBT delivers the day-to-day therapy sessions. You, as the parent, are also a core part of the team.
What is a BCBA and what do they do? A Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) is a master's or doctoral-level clinician certified through the Behavior Analyst Certification Board (BACB). Your BCBA designs your child's individualized treatment plan, supervises your child's RBT, analyzes session data, provides parent coaching, and ensures your child's program is always evidence-based and ethically delivered. They are the clinical lead for your child's care.
What is a QASP-S? A Qualified Autism Service Practitioner – Supervisor (QASP-S) is an advanced clinician who works alongside the BCBA to co-manage your child's program, conduct assessments, and supervise RBTs. This credential is recognized in North Carolina and represents a higher level of clinical responsibility than a standard therapist.
What is an RBT? A Registered Behavior Technician (RBT) is a trained professional who delivers the hands-on, 1:1 therapy sessions with your child. All RBTs complete a 40-hour BACB-approved training program, pass a competency assessment, and are supervised by a BCBA. They are background-checked and receive ongoing professional development. RBTs are the heart of daily therapy — building warm, trusting relationships with children and families while turning the BCBA's plan into real learning moments.
Will my child have the same therapist every session? We work hard to maintain consistency in staffing because we know how important that relationship is. While scheduling changes can sometimes occur, our goal is for your child to build a strong, consistent bond with their RBT. Any transitions are handled thoughtfully, with a proper handoff to ensure continuity of care.
Still have questions? We'd love to hear from you.
Call or text: 910-400-6392 | Email: intake@astuteabatherapy.com