Supporting Your Union County Preschooler with ASD: Exploring Medicaid-Covered ABA Therapy
Many parents in Union County, NJ, find themselves considering treatment options after their preschooler receives a diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorder (aka ASD or autism). Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy is considered the gold standard for treating autism/ASD, but its cost can be a significant barrier. Here's the good news: New Jersey FamilyCare (Medicaid) now covers ABA therapy for eligible children with autism/ASD!
Okay so what exactly is ABA therapy…?
ABA therapy is a scientific approach that improves social, communication, and learning skills. It breaks down complex behaviors into smaller, more manageable steps. Through positive reinforcement, data analysis, and other techniques, a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) and behavior technician (BT) help your child develop essential skills for success at home, school, and in the community.
Does My Child Qualify for Medicaid-Covered ABA Therapy?
Union County children under 21 with an autism/ASD diagnosis may qualify for Medicaid-covered ABA therapy. Here are some factors to consider:
Medical Necessity: A doctor or licensed healthcare professional must determine ABA therapy is medically necessary for your child's needs.
Age: Coverage is typically available for children under 21.
Diagnosis: A formal autism/ASD diagnosis from a qualified professional is required. Trouble getting an appointment for a diagnosis? Our diagnostic team can help you with that!
Managed Care Organization (MCO): New Jersey FamilyCare operates through MCOs. Choose an MCO that covers ABA therapy.
Benefits of ABA Therapy for Preschoolers:
In-home ABA therapy provides a comfortable and familiar environment for young children, promoting easier learning and progress. Here are some additional benefits:
Individualized Attention: An in-home behavior therapist (BCBA) tailors the program to your child's specific needs and interests.
Convenience: In-home therapy eliminates travel, reducing stress for you and your child. In addition, being in the home environment presents regular opportunities to generalize skills across family members and to the natural environment.
Parent Training: You'll learn techniques to support your child's progress at home, fostering consistency and positive outcomes.
Early Intervention: The earlier your child gets started, the better.
Next Steps:
If you think your Union County preschooler may benefit from ABA therapy, here's what to do:
Talk to your child's doctor: Discuss your concerns and get a referral for an autism/ASD evaluation.
Contact your MCO: Learn about their ABA therapy coverage and how to get pre-authorization.
Reach out to an ABA therapy provider: Look for a company with qualified BCBAs experienced in working with preschoolers on Medicaid.
We Can Help!
Ovation is a trusted Medicaid-Approved provider of in-home ABA therapy services in Union County and throughout the state of New Jersey. Our team of experienced BCBAs specializes in working with young children of all ages and abilities. We're committed to helping families navigate insurance coverage, including Medicaid.
Contact us today for a chat! We can answer your questions and help you determine if in-home ABA therapy is the right fit for your child. We can also refer you to trusted colleagues if you’d like to explore other options.
If you suspect your child may benefit from ABA therapy, consult your pediatrician. If you suspect your child may have an autism diagnosis, you can make an appointment with your pediatrician, or a developmental pediatrician. Or, schedule an appointment with our diagnostic team. The earlier we intervene, the greater the impact we can make on your child's development.
Ready to get started with Ovation? Fill out an intake form!
As a reminder, the suggestions outlined in this blog are not individual-specific. Always refer to your child’s health and behavior specialists before implementing any new programming.
