Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA)

Individual Eligibility for Applied Behavioral Analysis Treatment

Prior to receiving services, individuals receiving ABA shall have an evaluation by a physician or psychologist experienced in the diagnosis and treatment of autism using the current DSM criteria that includes:

• A diagnosis of an autism spectrum disorder or stereotypy with self-abusive behavior due to neurological dysfunction;

• Documentation of and results from a standardized tool that has been used to substantiate the autism disorder or questionnaires or observation that have been used to substantiate a diagnosis of stereotypy with self-abusive disorder due to neurological dysfunction;

• Documentation of behaviors that are considered to have an adverse impact on the individual’s development or communication;

• Documentation of behavior that is injurious to themselves or others and that interferes with everyday functions or activities;

• Any other documentation that would substantiate the diagnosis of autism or stereotypy with self-abusive behavior due to a neurological dysfunction;

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Referrals for ABA Treatment Must Include

• A diagnosis of autism or stereotypy with self-abusive behavior due to a neurological dysfunction;

• A copy of the medical evaluation described above;

• A referral for ABA treatment without specifying hours or intensity.

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Recipients aged 1 (one) through 12 (twelve) are eligible for intensive and less intensive interventions:

• Intensive interventions include therapies that address multiple behaviors at once, are more comprehensive in nature, and start at an earlier age;

• Less intensive interventions focus on a few targeted behaviors and generally are used with older children.

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Recipients aged 13 and older are eligible for less intensive services only.