NOW THAT YOU HAVE A DIAGNOSIS

Having a child or loved one diagnosed with a developmental disability can be incredibly overwhelming. Parents and caregivers face unique daily challenges that don’t impact most other families. It is not uncommon to have increased demands placed on your time, energy, and finances. Knowing where to begin the search for support or help can be difficult. Let Indiana Behavior Analysis Academy assist you as you take the first few steps in discovering the potential of your loved one with autism. We will not only help you find direct supports for your child, but your entire family. We provide a support network that is ready to hold your hand and make this journey with you. 
 
Having found this website, you may have already begun your research related to treatments and resources available to your child. We encourage you to continue this research and follow sources that provide empirically validated information. There are many expensive, sometimes harmful treatments posted on the internet that can be misleading to loving, hopeful parents.

One of the most researched and supported treatments for children with autism is applied behavior analysis (ABA). Applied Behavior Analysis therapy uses the well-established principles of learning to decrease negative behaviors while improving communication and life skills. Quality ABA programs are developed and supervised by experienced board certified behavior analysts (BCBAs) that work closely with the family as well as the child's multidisciplinary team. 

To learn more about ABA programs available to your child, we recommend that you schedule interviews with at least two local providers. Before enrolling your child, make certain that the provider meets the criteria of a good program as outlined by Autism Speaks. There are many factors that you will want to consider, beyond the quality of the clinical program, but this should certainly be the foundation of all programs. Access a tool kit through Autism Speaks that is designed for families to utilize in the 100 days following diagnosis.

Contact IBAA to schedule a free initial interview and consultation. During this consultation, we will answer questions you have regarding ABA, discuss in detail the services we provide and what to expect from IBAA, review the process of verifying and/or obtaining insurance coverage, and map out a plan to support you and your family.

Another source of information and support available to you and your family is support groups for parents of children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). The Autism Society of Indiana can connect you with such support groups and other helpful networks. 

The National Professional Development Center on Autism Spectrum Disorders has developed online MODULES for families and caregivers that is incredibly informative and helpful. This is a free service that can be accessed by following the highlighted link.