Question 1

What is ABA therapy?

Accepted Answer

Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy is an evidence-based treatment for autism spectrum disorder. It uses positive reinforcement and data-driven techniques to build communication, social, and daily living skills while reducing behaviors that interfere with learning.

ABA is endorsed by the U.S. Surgeon General and the American Psychological Association as the most effective treatment for autism.

Question 2

Is ABA therapy covered by insurance in Illinois?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Illinois state law (Public Act 095-0584) requires most private insurance plans to cover ABA therapy for autism spectrum disorder. Medicaid (All Kids, Medicaid Managed Care) also covers ABA therapy in Illinois. Contact Brown Bear and we will verify your insurance coverage at no cost to you before services begin.

Question 3

What ages do you serve?

Accepted Answer

Brown Bear provides ABA therapy for children from early toddlerhood (18 months+) through school age and beyond. Early intervention — beginning therapy as soon as an autism diagnosis is received — produces the best long-term outcomes.

Question 4

How do I get started with ABA therapy at Brown Bear?

Accepted Answer

Step 1: Contact us to schedule a free consultation. Step 2: We review your child's autism diagnosis and goals. Step 3: We verify your insurance coverage. Step 4: A BCBA conducts an initial assessment. Step 5: We create an individualized treatment plan and begin therapy. Most families begin services within 2–4 weeks of their first contact.

Question 5

Do you provide in-home ABA therapy near Schaumburg?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Brown Bear provides in-home ABA therapy throughout Schaumburg and the northwest Chicago suburbs including Hoffman Estates, Palatine, Arlington Heights, Rolling Meadows, Streamwood, Hanover Park, and Bartlett, IL.

Question 6

What qualifications do your ABA therapists have?

Accepted Answer

All ABA programs at Brown Bear are designed and supervised by Board Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBAs). Direct therapy is provided by Registered Behavior Technicians (RBTs) under close BCBA supervision. Our director, Dr. Jawahar Alvi, holds a BCBA certification and a Doctoral degree in Clinical Psychology with 23+ years of experience.

Question 7

How many hours of ABA therapy does my child need per week?

Accepted Answer

The recommended intensity varies based on each child's needs and goals. Research-based recommendations typically range from 10 to 40 hours per week for intensive programs. Your child's BCBA will assess their individual needs and recommend the appropriate number of hours during the initial evaluation.

Question 8

What is a BCBA and why is BCBA supervision important?

Accepted Answer

A Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) is a licensed professional credentialed by the Behavior Analyst Certification Board (BACB). BCBAs design individualized ABA treatment plans, supervise RBTs, analyze data, and adjust programs to maximize your child's progress. BCBA supervision ensures your child receives accountable, evidence-based care.

Question 9

What assessments does Brown Bear use?

Accepted Answer

Brown Bear uses industry-standard ABA assessment tools including the ABLLS-R (Assessment of Basic Language and Learning Skills), AFLS (Assessment of Functional Living Skills), and VB-MAPP (Verbal Behavior Milestones Assessment and Placement Program) to comprehensively evaluate each child and create a targeted treatment plan.

Question 10

What services does Brown Bear offer besides ABA therapy?

Accepted Answer

In addition to ABA therapy, Brown Bear offers occupational therapy, speech therapy, social skills training groups, parent training, school consultation, school advocacy, wraparound consulting for mainstreaming, behavior management, and comprehensive skills assessments.

Question 11

Do you offer parent training?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Parent training is a core part of our ABA programs. We provide individualized training so families can support their child's goals at home, in the community, and at school. Parent involvement is one of the strongest predictors of positive ABA therapy outcomes.

Question 12

Where is Brown Bear located?

Accepted Answer

Brown Bear - ABA Therapy for Autism is located at 1325 Wiley Rd, Schaumburg, IL 60173. We also provide in-home ABA therapy throughout the northwest Chicago suburbs.