Behavioral Therapist Recommendations and Questions

Hi Everyone!

Took DS to neurologist (3rd visit). He is 3.5 and presents with speech delay and attention deficit and some ODD behaviors. He is in an integrated class and also receives speech, OT and play therapy. Some of his behaviors at home are very challenging. He can be such a good boy, but other days are crazy. Neurologist recommended a behavioral therapist to help target some of them and help me cope. Even though I am a special ed. Teacher, I also have a 5 year old and 8 month twins so I think I need someone else to help me. :( I am feeling very overwhelmed and have no help until my husband comes home in the evenings. I feel like professionally I know what I should be doing, but is so different when it's your own kid!

Are behavioral therapists covered by insurance? Or should I reconvene CPSE? Not sure I would get it as his behaviors are very good at school and not impacting him there. I also receive parent training at school, but it isn't much. Perhaps I should ask for more or get the psychologist at his preschool to come up with a plan?? As of now, she has just been a sounding board.

Also does anyone have recommendations for one? He is not ASD, so I don't need anyone that specializes in ABA. I am in the Huntington area.

Thanks!

Message edited 12/16/2014 5:40:10 PM.

Re: Behavioral Therapist Recommendations and Questions

ABA is now covered by most insurances. It's also not autism specific, ABA is used in special/general ed as well as autism programs. I would suggest trying to get in-home parent ed or behavior consult at home. It doesn't hurt to look into what your insurance covers. I don't know much about insurance, but I am a BCBA, feel free to message me if you have any questions.

Behavioral Therapist Recommendations and Questions

My son is just 3 & got approved for social skills class at All About kids. Is anyone familiar with this? I was told it's like a nursery school.
We are not on spectrum so not familiar with all those letter codes above

Message edited 12/16/2014 8:53:55 PM.

Re: Behavioral Therapist Recommendations and Questions

I would request a CSE meeting and tell them you want parent training at home. ABA is not only for kids on the spectrum, but I am not sure insurance will cover it if you don't have an ASD diagnosis, you would have to check with your provider. It's all sort of new and I have heard some stories about some providers giving people a hard time about getting it covered, even though in NY State, they are supposed to cover it.

If the district provides parent training, tell them you need it at home. I would also recommend requesting a BCBA - a certified behaviorist. The better trainers I have worked with were BCBAs.

Re: Behavioral Therapist Recommendations and Questions

As the PP's said, ABA may benefit him although he is not on the spectrum.

Call your insurance as most are covering it now.