PCS Season is Approaching! Indicators of Quality ABA Programs as You Plan Your Transition

-by Taylor Calame

As a Board Certified Behavior Analyst and a military spouse, I know firsthand the challenges families face during PCS season, especially when it comes to ensuring continuity of care for your children. My own son has a complex, chronic medical condition and securing top notch care for him was a top stressor for me as we prepared for our assignment in Germany.

Likewise, transitioning to a new location can be daunting, particularly for families who rely on ABA services. At adaptABILITY, our aim is to provide you with a useful checklist of questions to ask while searching for quality ABA programs in your new area. It is crucial to find not just any ABA provider, but an excellent ABA provider that will partner with you to provide quality services for your family. Unfortunately, not all ABA centers are created equally, and we want nothing less than excellent therapy for your child! My hope is that this checklist will serve as a useful tool as you research and choose a new center. 

Questions to Ask Potential Providers

1. What is the current waitlist situation?

• Why Ask This: Understanding wait times can help you plan accordingly. If there’s a long waitlist, you might want to explore multiple options.

• What to Look For: Programs that actively communicate their waitlist status and provide an estimated timeline for when services can begin. If you cannot find at least two centers in your projected new location with an estimated waitlist of 6 months or less, contact your leadership with this information, as it may be necessary to request a new assignment based on lack of access to care. 

2. Are your services center-based, home-based, or a combination of both?

• Why Ask This: Understanding the service delivery model is vital, as some children may thrive better in specific settings, or have specific needs like a peer group.

• What to Look For: Flexibility in service delivery based on the child's needs, including options for in-home therapy, community outings, and center-based services.

3. How do you involve families in the treatment process?

• Why Ask This: Family involvement is key to the success of ABA programs. Programs that prioritize this will likely have better outcomes.

• What to Look For: Regular communication, training for family members, and opportunities to participate in sessions.

4. Can you provide references or testimonials from other families?

• Why Ask This: Hearing from other families can give you insight into the program’s effectiveness and how they treat their clients.

• What to Look For: Positive testimonials and tangible success stories from families who have used the service. Don’t forget to also check Google Reviews and to search previous posts on local community Facebook pages. 

As you prepare for your PCS, gathering this information will help you make an informed decision about your child’s ABA needs. It's crucial to start this process as early as possible, as soon as you receive soft orders. Reach out to potential providers in your new area to collect this information and ensure they have openings soon after you arrive.

As a military spouse, I've experienced the anxiety of PCSing and the uncertainty that comes with finding new medical services. Remember, you’re not alone in this journey. Network with fellow military families, join support groups on social media, and seek recommendations from your current ABA provider. Building a community can make the transition smoother and offer you additional resources.

As a BCBA and a military spouse, my hope is that you approach this transition with confidence. Trust your instincts, rely on the support of your community, and prioritize your child's well-being throughout the move. Your proactive approach can lead to a successful transition and continued growth for your child in their new environment.

If you have any questions or need further guidance, feel free to reach out to our office. We’re here to support you and your family during this transition and beyond. Safe travels, and best of luck in your new adventure!