by Jessie Cooper | Feb 17, 2022
This past November I made a decision to stop publicly writing until my divorce was final. I’ve spent hours on the stand just reading my own bank statements and wanted to prevent my blog from somehow adding to the length of the divorce process. In September of last year, the courts scheduled a final hearing for March 3rd, 2022. “Just 6 months,” I thought, “I can do 6 more months.”
This past week I received a call from my new lawyer… another extension. Four more months. The date I was told was final was not. There is so much I want for my children, so four more months of the same felt unreal, yet here it was. It felt like Groundhog Day. Haven’t I been here before? Stuck in the same?
Dealing with an Extended Divorce Process
Yes, I have been divorcing for what will now be more than half of my younger son Declan’s life. He was 18 months when this all started, now he wants a race car cake, like Metchie (his older brother, Dametrius) for his third birthday. My Henry will be ready for kindergarten this fall. My son Dametrius will start looking at colleges.
My children have kept growing, yet their mama’s world has seemed stuck in the same storm. Sunshine was promised yet clouds continue to roll in. As hard as my situation is (divorcing in a small town while leaving domestic violence) I can’t help but think of all of us, stuck in the pandemic for longer than my divorce, waiting for a clearing stuck in the darkness.
Last September when I received the final divorce date I thought “OK after my divorce is final life can go on.” I will be able to make plans. I want to go to the beach. To hold my babies for more than two nights at a time before transferring to their father yet again. To begin building a life with the amazing partner I am lucky to call mine. To spend time with friends. The list went on and on.
With COVID, I have felt the same way, wishing for it to be over so life can go on. Have you? How many times have you found yourself saying, “when COVID is over, when it’s normal again, I’m going to…” fill in the blank. I know personally, I’ve thought about activities for the kids, swim lessons, flying on an airplane with children, and so much more. My sister’s darling twins turned 3 this year, she really, really wants to take them to storytime.
Finding Motivation
I don’t know about you, but when there is a restriction present it is hard to plan, to know what to do, to make things feel formal. Whether it’s a divorce, a pandemic, or anything else outside of your control, how do you convince yourself to go on when sometimes all you want to do is go back? Back to the way things were before the restriction was there.
This week when I got the news of yet another delay something shifted in me. Snapped if you will. I couldn’t do it. I could not spend one more moment telling myself, “when I’m divorced I’ll fill in the blank.” I don’t know about you but I also cannot do one more, “when COVID is over then I’ll fill in the blank” either.
I looked at my babies (OK now full-on boys) and right in front of me, life is happening. They are growing, evolving, and living. They aren’t waiting for anything to change their lives, they are just alive. While divorce is hard, they are little, and often the biggest upset of the day is something like no ice cream or Mario time.
Dametrius is actually thriving and his thriving splits my face into a smile I cannot shake. In looking at my children and now two restrictions without an end I can depend on I decided, “you know what, I can live too.” I don’t need to wait for this to be over and the truth is life isn’t going to be the same after all of this but it’s not going to be better either. It’s just going to be different. There are amazing things happening right now in the darkness, shining stars if you will.
Seizing the Now
Sure there are a million things my heart and mind want to do when I am divorced and the pandemic isn’t restricting our social life. But there is so much to love right here, right now. Just this past weekend, I celebrated my 35th birthday and was surrounded by the best friends and family I could ever ask for. I am not kidding you, outside of my dear Aunt Linda in Colorado and Catherine in New Mexico, I sat down with, dined with, or exchanged gifts with everyone I love. Everyone.
How does a woman become that lucky? And these people I love? They are the most incredible people you have ever met. After spending a week with them, alongside my boys, I basked in the evidence right in front of me that life can be beautiful even when hard things aren’t going anywhere. Or are going somewhere at a snail’s pace.
I thought to myself, what do I want to do now with my one wild and precious life? I do not have time today to fill the pages with my dreams. But today, I want to adjust my spirit for the slow walkout and to enjoy every step on the path. I’ve got some incredible people walking right alongside me.
When Life is Dark as Winter’s Night, Share Some Kindness, Bring Some Light.
Xoxo,
Jessie
by IABA Team | Jan 18, 2022
There are many professions that are specifically designated to help individuals with autism. These professions range from publicly available to private in-home programs. The needs of each child are different and so are the professionals that can best help with their development.
Let’s take a look at some of the most common professions in the field of ASD and talk about who can benefit from their services. This is not a comprehensive list and is not meant to be taken as medical advice. Please listen to the recommendations of your developmental pediatrician or doctor!
Autism Professionals
The following 8 professions are commonly used to help with the development of individuals with autism. Note that many of these services can be used together–it all depends on the optimal service plan for each individual.
A note that ABA therapy is still the only evidence-based practice for helping the development of individuals with autism. Other programs and therapies can work in tandem with ABA therapy, but may not show the same results without its inclusion.
Applied Behavior Analysis
Applied behavior analysts (ABA) help individuals with autism learn by using ABA therapy, the only evidence-based method for helping symptoms of autism. ABA therapists are often found in clinical settings but they are able to provide in-home services as well. ABA therapists design unique plans for each individual that work with strengths and weaknesses to ensure progression and development.
Special Education Teacher
Special education teachers are typically found in schools, both private and public. These teachers can be trained in many different areas of special education, including autism. If you are sending a child with ASD to a public school, make sure their special education program includes an instructor who specializes in autism.
Certified applied behavior analysts are known as Board-Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBA). Clinics may use a combination of BCBAs and other ASD service providers in order to provide the best care to clients.
Rehabilitation Therapists
Related to general ABA therapy, rehabilitation therapists specialize in using ABA therapy in a clinical setting to help with development. Rehabilitation therapists are not BCBAs, but are educated and certified to help with ABA therapy in a clinical setting. Rehabilitation therapists without any direct professional links to a licensed ABA therapy practice are not recommended.
Occupational Therapist
Occupational therapists (OT) specialize in helping clients with everyday activities and duties. Like special education teachers, OTs specialize in many areas, from rehabilitation to autism. OTs may be recommended for helping with a development plan or routine for an individual with autism.
Speech Therapists
Speech therapists are essential for helping individuals with ASD and verbal communication issues developing speech and language skills. Like most fields on this list, finding a therapist that specializes in helping individuals with autism is crucial, as there are many types of speech therapists.
Social Workers
Social workers that help families with ASD-related issues typically introduce families to care options, plans, and networks. Individuals with more severe ASD-related issues may need specialized services for their entire life–services that many change over time. Having a social worker to help navigate the care landscape can help families select the best services for their needs.
Finding a social worker who is able to help with all of your child’s needs may take time, as social workers specialize in different areas. If you are thinking about utilizing a social worker, make sure to address all your needs and concerns before starting any program.
Developmental Psychologists, Clinical Psychologists, & Pediatricians
A developmental psychologist focuses on human development over the course of a person’s life. Developmental psychologists can help navigate issues and concerns with a specific individual’s development and recommend plans of action. Developmental psychologists are also able to determine if an undiagnosed case of ASD may be the case of developmental delays.
Clinical Psychologists can serve a similar role as developmental psychologists, but for different ASD-related issues. Clinical psychologists may be able to diagnose cases of ASD and will have information on how to proceed for the best development of an individual with autism.
Pediatricians are the first line of defense for identifying ASD and what to do next. While most pediatricians won’t diagnose ASD, they are aware of what warning signs to look for and what to do if they are encountered.
ABA Therapy from IABA Consultants
This article was intended as an overview of professional services and practices you may encounter with finding a program for an individual with ASD. ABA therapy is the only evidence-based method for improving the development and growth of an individual with autism.
If you have questions regarding autism treatment, education, or plans using ABA therapy, we are here for you! Our goal is to make sure no family is turned away due to financial constraints. Our therapy team would love to talk to you. Find the location closest to you and give us a call. We’re here for you.
by IABA Team | Jan 11, 2022
If you have had a child diagnosed with Autism (or ASD), it can be tough to know what to do next. The developmental pediatrician or clinical psychologist that diagnosed your child may have given you some starting points for your child, but what else should you know?
Let’s take a look at things you should know about before considering certain developmental programs and options for your child.
Diagnostic Levels of Autism
The first thing you should take note of is the level of your child’s symptoms and abilities in regards to the autism spectrum. The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) lists 3 levels of severity for autism spectrum disorder:
- Level 1 – Requiring support. Level 1 is typically defined by inflexible behavior in multiple contexts, difficulty switching from one activity to another, and problems with organization & planning.
- Level 2 – Requiring substantial support. Level 2 is typically defined by difficulty with changes to routines, repetitive behaviors that interfere with everyday activities, and distress or difficulty changing attention or actions.
- Level 3 – Requiring very substantial support. Level 3 is typically defined by extreme difficulty coping with changes, restrictive or repetitive behaviors affecting many aspects of a daily routine, and major difficulties changing attention or actions.
Each diagnostic level of autism requires different plans for proper action to be taken.
ASD Services
There are many services available to help individuals with ASD. Many of these services can work in tandem to create a cohesive plan to help with many aspects of autism. Some of the areas to start looking for help with a new autism diagnosis include:
- ABA Therapy (only evidence-based)
- Speech Therapy
- Occupational Therapy.
- Individualized Education Programs.
Many ASD service providers cover several of these areas and can help point you in the right direction for services they don’t provide. Having a plan with communication between service providers is essential for providing adequate care. If you need to see multiple therapists make sure they share reports with each other–using conflicting therapy methods and tools may not work as intended. Consistency and communication are necessary!
Working with ASD at Home
Aside from professional help, there are many things parents can do at home to help a child with autism learn and develop. These are general good practices to add structure and stability to the home life of a child with autism. Make sure to maintain good communication with any ASD service providers to ensure both you and the professionals are teaching your child the same thing!
Add Structure
Simply scheduling consistent activities on a day-to-day basis can greatly reduce negative reactions to change at home. Getting settled in a scheduled routine is a great way for a child to know what to expect each day. Scheduling can include chores, meal times, bedtime routines, playtime, learning time, errands, and anything else that needs to be done on a regular basis.
Use Visual Aids
Using visual aids can help children with autism learn and digest information more efficiently. Providing imagery for tasks or events can help a child understand what is happening or what they need to do. Using visual aids in tandem with a scheduling calendar is also a great tool that may be easy for a child with ASD to understand.
Learn & Control Sensory Issues
Many individuals with autism have certain sensory issues. These sensory issues can be triggered by any of the 5 senses. Learning what causes certain undesired behaviors or outbursts can help you avoid situations at home. Make sure that the whole family and any guests are aware of any sensory triggers.
Encourage Communication
Children with autism usually have a range of language limitations or delays. Due to their lack of verbal, complex, or social communication children with autism will often engage in problem behaviors to get their needs met. Learning small steps stones of communication with your therapy team and encouraging them with your child will help promote their self-advocacy, decrease tantrums, and increase their communication skills.
Follow through with Demands
Oftentimes, because of limited communication skills, children with autism say, “no!” with their behaviors in big ways. Parents are often, and rightfully, overwhelmed giving into their child’s behaviors because it is how they are communicating. However, as language is being promoted it is important to provide consistent boundaries to decrease tantrums and other harmful behaviors like self-injury.
There are many other things that can be done to help with behavioral issues, but they should be given to you by your child’s ASD service provider(s). Making sure things stay on a consistent schedule and being aware of your child’s needs & triggers can go a long way in smoothing out life at home. It is important to only follow the recommendations of a Board Certified Behavior Analyst when choosing and implementing a behavior intervention plan.
ABA Therapy from IABA Consultants
If you have questions regarding autism treatment, education, or plans using ABA therapy, we are here for you! Our goal is to make sure no family is turned away due to financial constraints. Our therapy team would love to talk to you. Find the location closest to you and give us a call. We’re here for you.
by IABA Team | Dec 21, 2021
ABA Therapy & Medicaid
ABA therapy is not cheap. Thankfully, many insurance companies provide coverage for the cost of the therapy. But what if you don’t have private insurance?
Applied Behavior Analysis is the only empirically-based therapy for children with autism. As research findings validated this, researchers and parent advocates began the hard work of passing legislation that required insurance carriers to cover ABA services for children with autism. In Illinois, in 2008, the Autism Mandate was passed stating children with autism were entitled to ABA therapy and thus insurance must cover this therapy. However, because this was a state law self-funded plans and national plans (like Medicaid) did not have to follow the law. In 2017, Medicaid passed a federal mandate that state plans provide ABA coverage to children with autism. However, because BCBAs hold a national license, not a state license, Illinois Medicaid pushed back.
For the past five years, providers and parent advocates have been working with Illinois law to find a way to get ABA coverage on Medicaid. Finally, in October of 2020, the ABA benefit was awarded on Medicaid insurance for children with autism with the requirement that BCBA’s are supervised by clinicians that also hold state licensure. This means that for over 13 years children with autism and Medicaid funding were largely left without access to the only evidence-based treatment.
While this is great, it can still be very difficult to find a provider who will accept Medicaid for payment due to the lower reimbursement rates of Medicaid insurance and the new supervision requirement of BCBAs..
How Do I Get Medicaid to Cover ABA Therapy & Services?
Your child must be diagnosed with ASD by a certified professional before any steps can be taken. If your child has not been formally diagnosed with ASD, the Medicaid website has resources to get you started.
To get Medicaid coverage on ABA therapy you need to find a service provider who accepts Medicaid. Representatives at Medicaid should be able to give you nearby providers that accept the benefits. You can always call local service providers to see if they accept Medicaid (as their website or database may be missing an update).
As of December 2021, the majority of ABA service providers have not signed up for the Medicaid Program. Make sure to ask any provider you speak to about Medicaid coverage.
What Does Medicaid Cover for ABA Therapy?
Therapy & services provided by an ABA clinic will not differ from Medicaid or private insurance families. ABA providers use the only evidence-based therapy for ASD; the program will be used for all children, Medicaid or not. Programs will be modified based on individual needs.
Medicaid coverage for ABA therapy only covers services provided by Board Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBA) and Registered Behavior Technicians (RBT). Any ABA services provided by or overseen by other professionals will not be covered. Any program covered by Medicaid must be supervised by a licensed clinical psychologist or licensed clinical social worker who will oversee BCBAs and RBTs. All ABA goals must be authorized by Medicaid.
The coverage Medicaid provides for ABA therapy will vary from person to person. Speaking to the billing department at any clinic will help you understand what will be covered on an itemized basis. Medicaid will cover all provider expenses.
More Help With ASD & Medicaid
Recently, many Medicaid programs, both nationally and in-state, have upped the support offered for ASD. ABA therapy was ruled to be included in Medicaid benefits over 5 years ago, but Illinois (and other states) have only recently caught up to Medicaid requirements. Aside from just financial assistance, Medicaid programs are making a concerted effort to have more ASD services widely available.
As Medicaid coverage becomes more comprehensive in regards to provider reimbursement, it will be much easier for families to find the help they need. The program is still young, so the number of providers that accept Medicaid for ABA and other ASD therapies & services should grow quickly over the next few years.
IABA Consultants & Medicaid
Here at IABA, we are working very hard to have everything ready to accept families with Medicaid by March 2022 for Naperville & Oak Lawn and May 2022 for Glenview. We are finishing the enrollment process which will let us bill Medicaid quickly and efficiently.
We have been helping families for almost 10 years now and Medicaid will allow us to help those who might otherwise have no options. We are looking forward to being able to accept any family in need of ASD services regardless of their insurance standing.
Accepting Medicaid strongly supports our mission and core beliefs. Our foundation was built on several principles, one being no child with autism will ever be turned away, regardless of funding source. Being able to accept funding from Medicaid greatly expands our ability to help children from all backgrounds. Every child deserves equal care, no matter their background or funding source.
If you have any questions on getting Medicaid to cover ABA therapy & services, please send us an email. We’d be happy to answer any of your questions or put you in touch with one of our associates who can help meet your needs.
by IABA Team | Nov 30, 2021
Many ABA therapy programs take place in-home. The comfortable setting makes in-home treatment more conducive to the needs of some children with ASD. In-home ABA therapy may differ from the therapy held in a clinical setting but what do those differences look like?
Family Involvement
Some children with ASD may require in-home ABA therapy to address issues with family members. This also allows family members to interact and learn how to use some of the ABA methods when treatment is over.
Other at-home issues may also require specific in-home therapy. Learning to properly use or interact with integral appliances, routines, and schedules may require the expertise of an in-home ABA therapist.
ABA Therapy Space
In-home ABA therapy usually requires designated spaces to be used. Each program is different and may use different spaces. All or most of the therapy programs will be conducted in these spaces, so be ready to slightly alter your daily routine if a specific room is off-limits for any amount of time (unless required to be there).
Being comfortable with a space may be beneficial to an ABA treatment program, so be sure to talk to your child’s therapist about therapy spaces.
In-Home ABA Therapy Scheduling
In-home ABA therapy is usually recommended to be conducted with a schedule that will be used during weekends & holidays. Creating a matching schedule for therapy and non-therapy hours can make transitions easier.
Talking to your child’s therapist can help you make a great schedule your child can follow. Be sure to include times, as moving times around can cause issues. Activities, free time, playtime, errand time, sleep schedules, meal times, and any other important family needs should be factored into both the therapy and regular home schedules.
Parents at Home
ABA therapists are not babysitters and should not be used in that capacity. Having a parent or guardian home is imperative during in-home ABA therapy sessions. If you are unable to be there for a specific time or something unmissable comes up, be sure to have a guardian take your place and not an unrelated babysitter.
Talking to your therapist about needs and duties as a parent can help you understand why you need to be home during therapy and what your role may require. Be sure to take any important notes and schedule any new activities.
ABA Therapy from IABA Consultants
If you have questions regarding autism treatment, education, or plans using ABA therapy, we are here for you! Our goal is to make sure no family is turned away due to financial constraints. Our therapy team would love to talk to you. Find the location closest to you and give us a call. We’re here for you.
