Why ABA?
Highlight offers services based in Applied Behavior Analysis therapy (ABA) which is widely recognized as the most effective, evidence-based treatment for autism. According to research, ABA fosters basic skills such as looking, listening, requesting and imitating, as well as more complex skills such as reading, conversing and understanding another person’s perspective. ABA also helps reduce behaviors that make it difficult for children to learn. Studies indicate that the earlier that children receive ABA therapy, the more likely they will be to make gains.
Our services
Clinic-based ABA
In our clinic-based therapy program, your child will receive one-on-one instruction and learning opportunities in a structured setting to work on specific goals. Such a setting also provides the unique opportunity for children to engage with other children through fun group activities, and to learn and practice how to navigate social situations. This program prepares children with the skills needed to be successful across all environments, such as home, school, and in the community. Instruction is data-driven, and based on the principles and science of applied behavior analysis (ABA). All clinicians are trained and supervised by licensed Board Certified Behavior Analysts.
Parent Involvement
Parent or caregiver participation is a vital component of your child’s success. Based on this, parents and/or caregivers are expected to participate in services. Ways of doing this will vary according to each individual families’ needs, but may include observations of sessions, parent meetings, and instruction of the parent or caregiver in behavior management techniques. Areas of focus could include techniques for reducing maladaptive behaviors, transitioning between activities, and improving communication skills. It is the goal of Highlight to involve families in every step of their child’s journey and progress.
Home-based ABA
Providing ABA therapy in the home is not unlike clinic-based interventions, as the goal is to develop treatment/behavior plans with objective and measurable goals. This type of therapy creates a naturalistic setting for teaching children daily living and household skills. It specifically allows the behavior therapist and BCBA to implement interventions in the setting where the behavior will most likely take place. Oftentimes, families choose to start with in-home services and then transition to clinic-based services to help work on expanding skills outside of just the home setting.
Early Intervention Program
Highlight offers a specialized program targeted for children not yet enrolled in school. This program is tailored to children between infancy and age five and takes place in the clinic setting. Early intervention can be life-changing for many children, as they are building skills at an early age, before behaviors become too learned and engrained. Our early intervention program uses the methods of ABA to help children learn age- and developmentally-appropriate language and learning skills. Instruction is individualized and is offered in one-on-one and small group settings.
Therapeutic Consultation
We are here to help your loved ones foster independence through Therapeutic Consultation services. Therapeutic consultation is available for individuals who have a Developmental Disability (DD) Waiver through Virginia Medicaid. These individuals are generally adults, but may be children and adolescents as well. Therapeutic consultation provides behavioral expertise, training, and technical assistance to individuals, family members, caregivers, and service providers.
Serving Staunton City, Waynesboro City, and Augusta County
The Next Steps
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GET IN TOUCH
If you are interested in gaining more information on our services, please call Highlight for an initial phone conversation.
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EVALUATION
An initial evaluation will be scheduled and will include any appropriate skills assessments, observations, and parent consultations. This will often be divided into two or three separate times.
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AUTHORIZATION
An authorization request will be submitted to your insurance company to get your child approved for ABA treatment. Highlight accepts Anthem, VA Premier, Aetna, and United Healthcare. We also accept most Medicaid MCO plans.
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TREATMENT PLAN
A treatment plan will be developed for your child’s needs, including treatment goals, strategies for staff implementation, and parent/caregiver expectations. Behavior plans for management of maladaptive behaviors may also be included if appropriate.
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SCHEDULE
A schedule for services will be determined. As an important note, specific goals, strategies, overall program structure, and length of services will differ by each child’s specific strengths and needs.