The increasing use of telehealth in ABA therapy has transformed the behavioral analysis landscape. While in-person therapy sessions remain the cornerstone for most clients, virtual ABA therapy has opened the door for underserved and geographically distant communities. Telehealth provides a flexible and accessible alternative to traditional in-person sessions.
However, the virtual format of telehealth ABA services does present unique challenges. Here, we explore what telehealth ABA therapy is and the best practices that will help you maintain therapeutic progress with your clients.
What is telehealth ABA therapy?
Telehealth ABA therapy is an alternative to in-person therapy. Conducted via two-way video conference platforms or sometimes over the phone, it is a remote means of one-to-one therapy in real-time for clients who cannot physically attend sessions.
Client engagement is key
Maintaining client engagement on a virtual platform is more complex than in-person therapy and can be particularly challenging with young autistic children. Here are some strategies to enhance engagement throughout the virtual sessions:
- Interactive tools and visuals: Virtual platforms come equipped with interactive features like screen sharing, whiteboards, and drawing tools that can be used to represent concepts visually. Using colorful visuals, short videos, or animated rewards during sessions can help maintain concentration.
- Frequent breaks, movement, and shorter sessions: To avoid frustration or burnout, include regular movement breaks or incorporate physical activities. These “brain breaks” help the child reset and refocus on tasks. Shorter sessions can also be useful in the context of virtual learning.
- Clear, consistent routines: Consistency is key to building and reinforcing desired behaviors in ABA. Establishing a predictable structure for virtual sessions — including starting and ending routines — helps the client understand what to expect. Simple reminders such as “First we do this, then we take a break” reinforce the ABA approach and maintain engagement.
- Use technology to gamify sessions: Virtual platforms allow for creative ways to implement reinforcement. Turning tasks into games, introducing a point system, or using digital tokens as immediate rewards can motivate engagement. Progress can be tracked visually in a way that mirrors traditional token boards but with the added benefits of animation and instant feedback. Children respond well to gamification in particular.
Involve caregivers for continuity
One of the main benefits of telehealth ABA therapy is the increased opportunity for caregiver involvement. Most virtual sessions take place in a home environment, allowing caregivers to observe or participate (where appropriate).
Increased caregiver involvement allows clinicians and therapists to train and coach caregivers on continuing behavioral interventions and reinforcements during everyday activities and routines. This helps to maintain consistency outside of sessions.
As the setting is usually the home environment, it also makes it easier for therapists to provide real-world context for practicing daily living skills like getting dressed and hygiene routines.
Involving caregivers in the goal-setting process fosters a deeper investment in therapy. They should receive regular progress updates and adjust therapy goals based on behaviors and outcomes they observe at home.
Set achievable and measurable goals
Goal setting is a central part of any ABA program. However, adjustments may need to be made to accommodate the virtual format when transitioning to telehealth. Focus on behaviors that can be realistically addressed in a virtual setting, such as language and communication skills, rather than those that might need physical prompting. Break down goals into small, achievable steps.
Incorporate Natural Environment Teaching (NET). The home setting offers a unique opportunity to integrate ABA techniques into natural daily routines. Behavior analysts can incorporate real-life situations that the child encounters at home, such as meal times or play, to teach skills in context.
Utilize technology for progress tracking and data collection
Assessing and monitoring progress regularly is essential in ABA therapy, and telehealth sessions offer a unique opportunity to streamline data collection and progress tracking. Many telehealth platforms offer integrated data collection features that can be customized to track specific behaviors and monitor progress during sessions.
Use the platform’s video recording technology to record and review sessions to assess progress or give additional insights to caregivers. They can also be used to refine interventions or highlight successful strategies that should be repeated. Of course, caregiver consent must always be obtained before using recording technology.
Maintain telehealth billing best practices by outsourcing
The behavioral health billing landscape is complex, and the intricacies of telehealth services can make it even more challenging. One of the best ways to stay on top of the ever-evolving ABA and telehealth billing process is to outsource to industry professionals such as Missing Piece.
As an experienced ABA billing company, we understand your practice, treatment options, and methodologies. Our expertise allows us to establish an easy-to-use system for managing all components of the revenue cycle within your practice. We minimize the complexity of the billing process so that you can spend your time where it matters most — giving your clients the high-quality service and care they deserve.
Contact us today for more information or a free billing analysis.