CenCal Health covers many services for the medical and behavioral health needs of children diagnosed with ASD.
Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy is based on science and learning. The goal is to increase helpful and appropriate behaviors (such as greeting others and responding to directions).
ABA therapy can help to improve:
- Language
- Communication
- Attention
- Memory
- Social skills
ABA services can be provided by:
- Board-certified behavior analysts (BCBA)
- Registered Behavior Technicians
ABA services offered through insurance do not replace ABA services your child may be receiving at school or a regional center.
Physical Therapy (PT) is provided by a licensed physical therapist. Physical therapy focuses on:
- Developing gross motor skills
- Improving balance and coordination
- Improving confidence in social situations
- Other specific goals (like increasing ankle mobility for those that walk on their toes).
Occupational Therapy (OT) is provided by a licensed occupational therapist. Occupational therapy focuses on improving skills to support independent learning, such as:
- Independently dressing and eating
- Fine motor skills
- Using the restroom
- Eating and swallowing
Speech Therapy is provided by a licensed speech therapist. Speech therapy focuses on:
- Improving language
- Improving verbal, nonverbal and social communication
- Enunciation (making clearer sounds)
- Strengthening muscles used to speak
- Modulating tone of voice
- Understanding nonverbal social cues (like body language and facial expressions)
Mental Health Services address co-occurring symptoms and conditions such as ADHD, anxiety, and mood disorders. Mental Health services may include:
- Medication management with a Psychiatrist or Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
- Individual or family therapy
Please talk to your child’s pediatrician for to learn more about these services.