If you’re searching for an ABA therapist for your child, first of all—take a deep breath. You’re not alone, and you’re doing an incredible job just by being here and taking the time to understand what’s best for your family. Choosing the right therapist can feel overwhelming, but from my experience, it’s also one of the most impactful decisions you can make.
In this guide, I’ll walk you through exactly what to look for in an ABA therapist, step-by-step. By the end, you’ll feel more confident in your ability to find someone who truly understands your child’s unique needs and can support their journey with empathy, skill, and heart.
Understanding ABA Therapy
Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy is rooted in behavioral science and focuses on improving socially significant behaviors. For children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), ABA can help build skills in communication, social interaction, emotional regulation, and everyday living.
An ABA therapist doesn’t just teach skills—they learn how your child learns. Then they shape the environment and use positive reinforcement to guide behavior in meaningful ways. And trust me, when it’s done right, it can be life-changing.
What Makes ABA Therapy So Valuable for Children with Autism?
In my experience, one of the most beautiful things about ABA is that it’s so individualized. Every plan is tailored to your child’s strengths, challenges, and goals. Whether it’s helping your child ask for what they want, play more easily with others, or transition between activities without distress—ABA therapists are there to guide those moments.
That’s why choosing the right ABA therapist matters so much. It’s not just about technical skill—it’s about trust, connection, and collaboration.
Preparing to Choose an ABA Therapist
Before you even make that first phone call or schedule a consultation, take a moment to center yourself. What are your goals? What are your child’s needs? What kind of person would you trust to be part of your child’s growth?
Step 1: Understand Your Child’s Needs
Start with what you know. No one knows your child better than you do.
Ask yourself:
- What areas does my child need the most support in? (e.g., communication, daily routines, social skills)
- What motivates my child?
- Do they learn best with structure, visuals, play, or repetition?
These insights are gold. When you meet potential therapists, you’ll want to see how well they listen and tailor their responses based on your child’s unique profile.
Step 2: Tap into Resources and Support Networks
Don’t go it alone. Reach out to:
- Your pediatrician
- Your insurance provider (ask which ABA services are covered)
- Local autism support groups
- Online parent communities
Ask for recommendations and personal experiences. These conversations can help you avoid trial and error and connect you with therapists who have already earned the trust of families like yours.
Step-by-Step Guide to Choosing an ABA Therapist
Here’s how I recommend approaching the selection process.
Step 1: Start with Research
Look for therapists with a BCBA (Board Certified Behavior Analyst) credential. You can verify this through the Behavior Analyst Certification Board (BACB) website. Check their experience—especially with children of your child’s age or diagnosis.
Don’t forget the intangibles: do they communicate clearly? Do they seem warm and approachable? Credentials matter, but connection is just as important.
Step 2: Schedule Consultations
Reach out to a few promising candidates. In the consultation, ask about:
- Their approach to behavior management
- How they develop treatment goals
- How they involve parents in the process
- What kinds of data they collect and how often they share progress reports
A great ABA therapist won’t just answer your questions—they’ll make you feel heard, respected, and hopeful.
Step 3: Observe a Session (If Possible)
Some therapists offer the chance to observe a session, or you might start with a trial period. Watch how they interact with children. Are they kind? Patient? Do they adapt their approach based on the child’s mood or behavior?
Ask yourself: Would I feel comfortable with this person guiding my child? Would my child feel safe and supported?
Step 4: Discuss Goals and Collaboration
Ask how they set and measure goals. How often will you meet to review progress? How do they handle setbacks or adjust the plan?
An excellent ABA therapist will not only set clear, measurable goals—they’ll treat you as an equal partner. That’s non-negotiable, in my book.
Essential Questions to Ask an ABA Therapist
Here are some thoughtful questions to bring to your consultation:
- How do you handle challenging behaviors?
- What strategies do you use to encourage skill generalization at home or in school?
- How do you involve parents in the therapy process?
- Can you walk me through how you track and report progress?
- What’s your experience with children who have similar needs to mine?
If a therapist is open, transparent, and enthusiastic about your child’s success—you’re on the right track.
Key Qualities to Look for in an ABA Therapist
To sum it up, here’s what I recommend looking for:
| Quality | Why It Matters |
| Credentials | BCBA-certified means they’ve got the training and oversight needed. |
| Experience | Especially with children who have similar strengths and challenges as yours. |
| Communication Style | Clear, respectful, and collaborative. You should feel comfortable asking questions. |
| Approach to Therapy | Evidence-based, individualized, and aligned with your family’s values. |
| Flexibility | Willing to adjust strategies and listen to your insights as a parent. |
| Warmth & Rapport | Your child needs to feel safe and connected for real growth to happen. |
Conclusion
At the end of the day, choosing an ABA therapist is a deeply personal decision. Yes, credentials and experience matter—but so does heart. You want someone who sees your child for who they are and is as committed to their progress as you are.
I encourage you to ask questions, trust your gut, and don’t settle until you find a therapist who feels like the right fit. This journey takes patience, but the right partner can make all the difference.
Ready to find the perfect match for your child’s needs? Contact Precious Care ABA to learn more about our ABA therapy services and how we can support your family!
Frequently Asked Questions
What qualifications should an ABA therapist have?
We recommend looking for a therapist with BCBA certification. They should also have experience with children with autism and ideally, a background in psychology or education.
How do I know if a therapist is a good fit?
Trust your instincts. Do they listen? Are they respectful? Do they explain things clearly? And most importantly, does your child respond positively to them?
What’s the role of parents in ABA therapy?
A vital one. Great ABA therapists include parents in the process, encourage home-based reinforcement, and communicate regularly about progress and goals.
Can therapy be adjusted as my child grows?
Absolutely. A strong ABA therapist will continuously assess and adapt the treatment plan as your child develops new skills and faces new challenges.
Sources:
- https://www.bacb.com/bcba/
- https://www.psychology.org/resources/bcba-meaning-career-overview/
- https://www.thechicagoschool.edu/insight/career-development/bcba-guide-bcba-certification-exam/
- https://www.pearsonvue.com/us/en/bacb.html
- https://www.autismspeaks.org/blog/questions-ask-aba-therapist
- https://iidc.indiana.edu/irca/articles/tips-for-choosing-a-provider-for-applied-behavior-analysis-aba.html
