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Since 2005, Butterfly Effects has supported over 15,000 children and families affected by autism. Our extensive experience and expertise have established us as a trusted national leader in ABA therapy. With our strong leadership, proven clinical model, and robust business infrastructure, we are fully prepared to provide families with professional, high-quality services quickly and efficiently.

Referral for ABA therapy

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Supporting documentation checklist

A step-by-step guide for submitting a referral form, with clear visual aids.

A guide to in-home ABA therapy

Make sure your patients understand their best options for treatment. Download our free guide and discuss with them the advantages of in-home ABA therapy for their family.

Frequently asked questions

What makes Butterfly Effects unique from other ABA service providers?

We learn by listening to the needs of families and change our approach accordingly. We create learning environments where children are happy, relaxed, engaged and feel safe, and we make learning fun by embedding treatment in play routines. Empowered families who participate in their child’s treatment experience the best outcomes. We have a strong parent-training model because families are the most important teachers and are constant in a child’s life. We seamlessly imbed intervention into the child’s natural routines, so treatment occurs naturally throughout the day. Our organization is led by a BCBA-D (which is unique among other companies) and all of our BCBAs are supervised by local regional directors who, along with our clinical case review committee, ensure that our services are of the highest quality.

What outcomes can families expect after sustained ABA-based treatment?

The length of time a child requires ABA therapy depends on the needs of the child. A child with significant behavioral needs and limited functional communications skills may require a high number of weekly hours for an extended amount of time (2 to 3 years on average). Other children with less intensive needs may master their treatment goals within 6 to 12 months. Overall, the length of treatment is individually determined by the number of goals identified by the family, needs of the child, and availability for treatment.

When should a child receive comprehensive therapy vs. focused therapy?

YES! The great majority of the ABA services provided by Butterfly Effects occur in the home. Providing treatment in the home allows the family to observe sessions, provide feedback to our staff, and participate in sessions. Home-based are designed to transfer skills from the teaching sessions to the child’s home routines.

What can families expect during the first 90 days of treatment?

YES! The great majority of the ABA services provided by Butterfly Effects occur in the home. Providing treatment in the home allows the family to observe sessions, provide feedback to our staff, and participate in sessions. Home-based are designed to transfer skills from the teaching sessions to the child’s home routines.

What is the best outcome for children that receive ABA therapy.

The best outcomes for children affected by autism who receive ABA therapy include significant improvements across various areas of development and daily life. While individual results vary based on the child’s needs, goals, and the intensity of therapy, here are some of the key outcomes commonly achieved through ABA therapy:

  1. Improved Communication Skills
  2. Development of verbal or non-verbal communication to express needs, emotions, and ideas.
    Enhanced ability to engage in meaningful conversations or interactions.

  3. Increased Social Skills
  4. Better understanding of social cues and improved ability to interact with peers and adults.
    Development of skills like sharing, turn-taking, and cooperative play.
    Ability to build and maintain friendships.

  5. Enhanced Independence
  6. Mastery of daily living skills such as dressing, grooming, hygiene, and meal preparation.
    Greater ability to manage routines and tasks independently.

  7. Reduction in Challenging Behaviors
  8. Decrease in behaviors such as aggression, self-injury, or tantrums through replacement with appropriate communication or coping strategies.
    Increased emotional regulation and self-management.

  9. Academic Success
  10. Improved focus, attention, and ability to follow instructions.
    Enhanced readiness for classroom settings, leading to better engagement with academic content.

  11. Better Family Dynamics
  12. Strengthened family relationships through improved communication and participation in shared activities.
    Reduction in caregiver stress as children develop more independence and manage behaviors effectively.

  13. Long-Term Functional Outcomes
  14. Increased ability to transition to less-intensive supports over time, including mainstream schooling or employment.
    Development of vocational skills for young adults, enabling meaningful participation in community and work settings.
    ABA therapy focuses on building essential skills tailored to each child, helping them thrive in their environment and achieve their full potential. Early and consistent intervention is key to maximizing these outcomes.

What are the benefits of in-home ABA therapy vs. clinic-based ABA therapy?

Benefits of in-home ABA therapy

  • Natural environment learning
  • Children practice skills directly in their familiar surroundings, making it easier to apply these skills to daily routines and activities
  • Promotes generalization of skills across real-life settings like home, family meals, and bedtime routines
  • Family involvement
  • Parents and caregivers can actively observe and participate in therapy sessions
  • Provides opportunities for hands-on parent training, helping families reinforce skills and strategies
  • Individualized focus
  • Therapy is tailored to the specific dynamics and challenges of the home environment
  • The child benefits from direct attention to behaviors or skills relevant to their home life
  • Convenience
  • Families save time by not traveling to a clinic
  • Sessions are conducted in the comfort and privacy of the home

Benefits of clinic-based ABA therapy

  • Structured learning environment
  • Clinics are designed to mimic school and community settings, helping children develop skills needed for those environments
  • Provides controlled settings for focused, distraction-free therapy
  • Socialization opportunities
  • Clinics offer interaction with peers, allowing children to practice social skills like sharing, turn-taking, and cooperative play
  • Ideal for children who benefit from small group instruction
  • Access to specialized equipment and resources
  • Clinics often have tools, materials, and activities that can enhance skill-building
  • Therapists can use a wider variety of approaches and activities tailored to specific goals
  • Team collaboration
  • Multiple therapists and supervisors are on-site, allowing for greater collaboration and observation
  • Easier access to specialized support and expertise for complex cases

Choosing the best option

  • In-home ABA therapy may be ideal for younger children, those with severe behaviors, or families who want more direct involvement and flexibility
  • Clinic-based ABA therapy is often better for children needing structured environments, social interaction, or preparation for school settings
  • Many families benefit from a hybrid approach, combining the strengths of both settings to meet their child’s needs. A consultation with your ABA provider can help determine the best fit for your family.

What to expect in the first 90 days of treatment?

At Butterfly Effects, we want to ensure a smooth start to your child’s care. Here’s what you can expect during the first 90 days:

  • Initial assessment: We will schedule an assessment with one of our Board Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBAs). During this time, the BCBA will evaluate your child’s needs, listen to your recommendations and concerns, and work with you to develop a personalized care plan.
  • Care plan approval: Once the care plan is approved by your healthcare provider, services will begin within 30 days.
  • One-on-one services: Your child will receive one-on-one therapy with a Butterfly Effects Behavior Technician, tailored to their specific goals and needs.
  • Ongoing support: The BCBA will oversee your child’s case, provide training to the Behavior Technician, and keep you informed about progress through regular communication with your family and treatment team.

We are committed to working closely with you every step of the way to ensure your child receives the best possible support.

Comprehensive or focused therapy approach?

Butterfly Effects is a full-service ABA therapy provider, offering support in homes, schools, communities, and centers. For children with significant needs and a higher number of treatment goals, we offer comprehensive programs that range from 25 to 40 hours per week. For children with fewer goals or those receiving additional auxiliary services, a focused program of 12 to 24 hours per week may be more appropriate.