What To Expect
We understand how overwhelming and lost you may feel on hearing your child has autism. The founder of Changing Lives BAS, Amy Buck, has first-hand knowledge and can relate to the anxiety and fear that comes with that initial diagnosis. Right from the beginning, we will step with you through the process. Beginning with the initial conversation, answering questions you have and guiding you on to the first step.
STEP 1: INTAKE PAPERWORK PACKET
We first ask the prospective client’s parents and/or guardians to complete the initial intake packet. Upon completion, the treatment team will review the packet to prepare for the initial assessment. We will then schedule the initial assessment.
STEP 2: INITIAL ASSESSMENT
The initial assessment will take place either in the prospective client’s home or at the clinic. A Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) will complete an initial assessment using the appropriate testing evaluation tools. The BCBA will come prepared with questions for the parents based off review of the intake paperwork. Parents are encouraged to ask questions. Parents and caretakers are a vital part of the assessment.
STEP 3: DEVELOPMENT OF INDIVIDUALIZED TREATMENT PLAN-PHASE ONE
Based on the results of the initial assessment, an Individual Treatment Plan (ITP) is developed to include target goals focusing on developmental, social, adaptive, and behavioral needs. It is important to note that this ITP is developed from the observation when conducting the initial assessment and therefore is referred to as the first phase of the ITP.
STEP 4: SERVICES BEGAN/ DEVELOPMENT OF ITP-PHASE TWO
The start of services is an exciting time. However, we realize we are new to the child. It is a goal of ours that our clients love therapy time. Your child’s team consisting of a BCBA and dedicated Behavior Technicians will spend time getting to know your child and develop rapture with him/her. Your child’s team may also consist of a BCaBA who will work under the direct supervision of a BCBA. Further skill assessment will be conducted over the first few weeks of services to develop the second phase of the ITP. In addition, your child’s BCBA will conduct a Functional Behavior Assessment (FBA) to develop the Behavior Support Plan (BSP).
STEP 5: FIRST PARENT MEETING
A parent meeting will be held during the sixth week of services to review with the parents the updated ITP upon completion of phase two, the FBA report, and any additional testing results.
WHAT’S NEXT?
ROUTINE CONSULTATIONS:
Your child’s BCBA will provide ongoing consultations to monitor his/her program. During these consultations, the BCBA will observe your child to confirm continued progress is being made and to determine if any necessary modifications are needed. Consultations will be conducted in all environments therapy is conducted on a rotating basis as needed.
ROUTINE PARENT MEETINGS:
Parent meetings will be conducted every 8-weeks to review ITP updates, behavior data, and skill acquisition data.
FAMILY TRAINING:
Parent Training is a key component in the model of services provided by CHANGING LIVES BAS in order to ensure generalization of skills acquired in therapy. Parent training will look different for each client depending on the need of the client and family. CHANGING LIVES BAS requires active participation from parents and/or caretakers, at the minimum, on a monthly basis.