Taking the first step toward ABA therapy for your child can feel overwhelming. You may have questions about the process, concerns about what to share, or simply wonder what happens next. The intake call is your first real conversation with an ABA provider—and being prepared can help you feel more confident and ensure your family gets the support you need.

This guide walks you through everything you need to know about the ABA intake process, from what to expect during the call to what information you should have ready.

What is an ABA Intake Call?

An intake call is typically a 15-30 minute phone conversation that serves as the first step in starting ABA therapy services. During this call, you’ll connect with someone from the ABA provider’s team who will:

Learn About Your Child
Gather basic information about your child’s needs and diagnosis

Explain Services
Describe what ABA therapy looks like and how their program works

Verify Insurance
Confirm your insurance coverage and explain any costs

Answer Questions
Address your concerns and provide clarity about next steps

Assess Fit
Determine if their services align with your family’s needs

Schedule Next Steps
Set up the initial assessment if you decide to move forward

Information to Gather Before Your Call

Having the right information ready will make your intake call smoother and more productive. Here’s a checklist of what to prepare:

Basic Information

• Your child’s full name, date of birth, and age
• Your address and phone number
• Parent/guardian names and contact information
• Best times for therapy sessions (general availability)

Diagnostic Information

• Diagnosis (autism spectrum disorder, developmental delay, etc.)
• Date of diagnosis and who provided it
• Copy of diagnostic report (if available—you may need to send this later)
• Any previous evaluations (speech, OT, psychological, etc.)

Insurance Information

• Insurance company name and plan type
• Member ID and group number
• Subscriber name and date of birth (if different from child)
• A photo of the front and back of your insurance card (to send via email)

Current Services & History

• Any current therapies (speech, OT, PT, etc.)
• Previous ABA therapy experience (if any)
• School placement and any IEP/504 plan
• Medications your child is currently taking

Don’t worry if you don’t have everything! The intake call is a starting point. If you’re missing some information, the provider can tell you what’s essential and what can be gathered later.

What Questions Will They Ask?

During the intake call, the provider will ask questions to understand your child and your family’s situation. Common topics include:

About Your Child’s Strengths & Challenges

• What are your child’s biggest strengths?
• What challenges are you hoping ABA can address?
• How does your child communicate (verbal, nonverbal, AAC device)?
• Are there any safety concerns (elopement, aggression, self-injury)?

About Your Goals

• What would you most like to see improve?
• Are there specific skills you want your child to learn?
• What does a successful outcome look like for your family?

About Your Family’s Schedule

• What days and times work best for therapy?
• Does your child attend school or daycare?
• Are there other therapies or activities to work around?

About Your Home Environment

• Where would therapy take place in your home?
• Are there other children or pets in the home?
• Is there anything the therapist should know about your home?

Questions YOU Should Ask

Home environment prepared for ABA therapy

The intake call is also your opportunity to learn about the provider. Here are important questions to consider asking:

About Their Services

• Do you provide in-home therapy?
• How many hours per week is typical?
• How often will a BCBA supervise sessions?
• Do you offer parent training?
• What is your approach to ABA?

About Their Team

• How do you match therapists with families?
• What training do your RBTs receive?
• Will we have the same therapist consistently?
• How do you handle therapist absences?

About Insurance & Costs

• Do you accept my insurance?
• Will you handle the authorization process?
• Are there any out-of-pocket costs?
• What happens if authorization is denied?

About the Timeline

• How long until we can start services?
• What does the assessment process look like?
• Is there a waitlist?
• How quickly can we get an initial assessment scheduled?

What Happens After the Intake Call?

If you decide to move forward after the intake call, here’s what typically comes next:

Insurance Verification

The provider will verify your insurance benefits and begin the authorization process. This can take 1-4 weeks depending on your insurance company.

Document Collection

You’ll be asked to submit diagnostic reports, insurance cards, and consent forms. Many providers use secure online portals for this.

Initial Assessment

A BCBA will conduct a comprehensive assessment of your child, usually over 2-4 sessions. This helps create an individualized treatment plan.

Treatment Plan Development

The BCBA will create a personalized treatment plan with specific goals based on the assessment findings.

Therapist Matching

You’ll be matched with an RBT (Registered Behavior Technician) who will provide direct therapy.

Services Begin

Regular in-home ABA sessions begin based on your authorized hours and schedule.

Tips for a Successful Intake Call

Find a Quiet Space

Try to take the call when you can focus without distractions. If your child is present, that’s okay—but having a few minutes of uninterrupted time helps.

Be Honest

Share both strengths and challenges openly. The more accurate picture you provide, the better equipped the team will be to help your child.

Take Notes

Write down important information, next steps, and any follow-up items. It’s easy to forget details after the call ends.

Trust Your Instincts

Pay attention to how the conversation feels. Do they listen to your concerns? Do they explain things clearly? You’re looking for a partner in your child’s care.

It’s Okay to Shop Around

If you’re not sure after one call, it’s completely acceptable to speak with multiple providers before making a decision. Read our guide on how to choose an ABA provider in Maryland for more tips.