Frequently Asked Questions
We know that choosing ABA therapy for your child comes with a lot of questions. Our ABA therapy FAQs provide answers to common questions about our center-based services, enrollment process, scheduling, insurance, and family involvement.
If you don't find the answer you're looking for, please don't hesitate to contact us. We're always happy to help!
Enrollment & Eligibility
Westside specializes in early intervention and primarily accepts new clients through age six. Children already receiving services may continue beyond this age when our center-based environment remains clinically appropriate. Older children may also be considered on an individual basis, depending on their developmental needs and treatment goals.
Yes! Many children attend school in the morning and participate in ABA therapy at Westside during our afternoon session. Although we primarily accept new clients through age six, we may consider older children when our center-based program is clinically appropriate for their developmental needs and treatment goals. For school-aged children, attendance may require adjustments to their school schedule, which families would need to coordinate with their child's IEP team.
No! Westside Behavior Therapy currently has openings available for new clients, with no waitlist. All enrollment requests are reviewed individually to ensure our center-based program is an appropriate fit for each child's needs.
Begin by completing our online enrollment request. Our team will typically contact you within 24–48 hours to discuss your child's needs and guide you through the next steps, including intake paperwork, insurance verification, and the assessment process.
Yes. Most insurance companies require a medical diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) to establish medical necessity and authorize ABA therapy services. An educational autism eligibility determination alone typically does not meet this requirement. Coverage requirements may vary by insurance plan, so we encourage families to verify their specific benefits and requirements with their insurance provider.
Our ABA Therapy Program
Each child's day is individualized based on their treatment goals, learning style, and developmental needs. Sessions may include structured learning opportunities, play-based instruction, communication practice, peer interactions, daily living skills, and activities that support independence. Learning takes place throughout our center in both individual and group settings.
Absolutely. Every child receives an individualized treatment plan developed and overseen by a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA). Treatment goals are based on comprehensive assessment, family priorities, and ongoing progress monitoring.
Our programs address a wide range of developmental and functional skills, including communication, social interaction, play, cooperation, self-help skills, toileting, transitions, and school readiness. Goals are selected based on what is meaningful and appropriate for each child and family.
Yes. School readiness is an important part of our programming when appropriate for a child's goals. We work on skills such as following classroom routines, participating in group activities, communicating needs, interacting with peers, and developing greater independence.
Yes. All ABA therapy services at Westside are provided on a one-on-one basis, with each child working directly with a dedicated behavior technician. Children also have opportunities to interact with peers and participate in group activities when clinically appropriate, while continuing to receive individualized support from their assigned technician.
Scheduling & Attendance
Westside operates Monday through Friday, from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. We offer two therapy sessions:
-
Morning: 8:00–11:50 AM
-
Afternoon: 1:00–4:50 PM
Specific scheduling recommendations are based on each child's clinical needs and available openings.
No. Westside specializes in center-based early intervention and does not offer after-school, evening, weekend, or in-home therapy services.
The number of recommended therapy hours varies based on each child's individual needs. Westside specializes in comprehensive ABA therapy, providing 20 hours of therapy per week for children whose clinical needs support that level of care. Children who would benefit from fewer hours may be better served by a provider offering targeted ABA services. Our team carefully evaluates each child's needs to determine whether our program is an appropriate fit.
We ask families to notify us as soon as possible when their child will be absent. Our attendance policies include a 24-hour cancellation expectation, and consistent participation is important for maintaining treatment continuity and progress.
Insurance & Payment
Yes. Westside works with a variety of commercial insurance plans and Oregon Medicaid health plans. Coverage and network participation vary, so we encourage families to contact us to verify their specific insurance benefits.
Many insurance plans cover medically necessary ABA therapy for children diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder. Coverage, deductibles, copayments, and authorization requirements depend on your individual plan.
Yes. Our team assists families with insurance verification and the authorization process for assessments and ongoing treatment. We will explain the information and documentation needed to move forward.
Yes! Westside may consider private-pay arrangements for families who wish to receive ABA therapy without using insurance. Unlike insurance-funded services, private-pay services do not require a medical autism diagnosis. However, all prospective clients must meet our clinical eligibility criteria to ensure our center-based program is appropriate for their individual needs. Please contact our team to discuss private-pay options and associated costs.
Family Involvement & Communication
Family involvement is an essential part of our approach. We schedule parent meetings at least twice per month to review treatment goals, discuss progress, address concerns, and help families support their child's skills outside the center.
Yes. Each child's treatment is overseen by a BCBA who works closely with the clinical team and family. Regular parent meetings provide dedicated time for collaboration, and families are encouraged to communicate questions or concerns as they arise.
Our clinical team collects and reviews treatment data regularly to evaluate skill development and treatment effectiveness. Your child's BCBA will discuss progress, review goals, and make adjustments to the treatment plan as needed.
Families should provide the personal items their child needs during sessions, including a water bottle, appropriate food or snacks, utensils, and extra clothing. Children working on toileting skills may need additional clothing and supplies. Our team will review specific requirements with you during enrollment.
Still Have Questions?
We're happy to help! Whether you're exploring ABA therapy for the first time or wondering if Westside is the right fit for your child, our team is here to answer your questions and guide you through the next steps.