Wondering If ABA Therapy Is Right for Your Child? Start Here.

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Getting an autism diagnosis is a lot to take in, and finding treatments is challenging, stretching even dedicated parents. If this resonates with you and you live in Sterling Heights, keep reading: we’ll discuss one therapy that many families find helpful: Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) for kids with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). We won’t just tell you what it is; we’ll also explain how it works, share tips for getting started right away, and show you real results from local families giving it a go. We’ll touch on insurance coverage too as well as different therapy settings. Our team at Early Autism Services understands that starting can be tricky; that’s why children are flourishing with our help, whether they are newcomers wanting information or experienced folk ready for their next steps. This guide should provide anyone considering ABA with a better understanding and perhaps give them greater confidence as well.

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What is ABA Therapy & How It Helps Children with Autism

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Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) represents a proven, evidence-based approach, one that shows children on the autism spectrum can genuinely learn life skills that matter. Its focus is understanding actions: figuring out what triggers them and using positive reinforcement to encourage helpful behavior. At the same time, ABA reduces behaviors that get in the way of learning or simply getting through the day.

For kids, this might mean learning to communicate their needs, following instructions, playing nicely with others, or even staying calm when feeling upset. Because every child has different needs and strengths, our plans, which are designed by board-certified behavior analysts, vary considerably from one child to another.

At Early Autism Services (EAS), goals are often broken down into manageable steps; accomplishments along the way build towards greater independence. Many families report noticeable improvements in communication, emotional control, and self-assurance within a matter of weeks. And ABA’s approach works no matter where children are on the verbal spectrum: whether they use words easily, have few or no spoken phrases, or express themselves using sign language. It also provides consistent ways to deal with issues like tantrums or changes in routine, strategies that can be used at home, at school, and in everyday situations.

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Inside ABA Therapy at EAS Sterling Heights

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At Early Autism Services in Sterling Heights, we really get to know your child through a detailed intake and assessment for ABA therapy. Our Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) uses this information to identify strengths as well as areas of need and developmental goals. The result is a truly individualized plan: objectives may include improving communication skills so that the requests can be made verbally rather than through tantrums, boosting attention span, or reducing social “meltdowns”.

Sessions are usually one-to-one, so every child has their own therapist's full focus. Some families prefer venue-based therapy at our Sterling Heights center while others opt for in-home visits and we’re happy to discuss pros and cons of each with you.

Erin G., a local parent, shared:

“We initially did in-home, which was great. My husband and I learned a lot about how to help our son… At a certain point, we moved to in-clinic. My son is thriving!”

EAS also ensures continuity and consistency by assigning a small team of therapists under a dedicated BCBA. Families often work with the same therapist for months or even years, building trust, familiarity, and strong progress over time.

Whether you're beginning with 10 hours per week or a full-time therapy schedule, the team at Sterling Heights will guide you each step of the way, making sure you're involved and supported.

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Insurance Coverage for ABA Therapy in Sterling Heights

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Once a child is diagnosed with autism, one of the first things parents want to know is whether their insurance will pay for ABA therapy. Here in Michigan, there’s good news: state law says that if you have private insurance (not through Medicaid), your plan must cover ABA as well as other services for kids on the spectrum, and most major insurers do.

At Early Autism Services in Sterling Heights, the team works directly with insurance providers to help families access care without unnecessary delays. Common insurers in the region include Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan, Aetna, Cigna, UnitedHealthcare, Carelon Behavioral Health, and Medicaid. The intake team at EAS assists with benefit verification, prior authorizations, and any required documentation.

If you're unsure whether your plan covers ABA therapy, a quick call to EAS can help you understand your options. As one parent shared:

“They got him in so quickly, and the whole process was a breeze… Just awesome all around.”

Coverage typically includes a set number of therapy hours per week, often based on your child's needs and BCBA recommendations. EAS also helps families with reauthorization processes every six months, so your child’s care stays uninterrupted.

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Real Progress: Stories from Sterling Heights Families

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Behind every therapy session is a story of growth, and families at EAS Sterling Heights have experienced truly life-changing outcomes.

Michael Z., a parent from the area, recalls his son’s first day:

“Staff was very friendly, polite, and he even got around to saying his ABCs the first day. I appreciate this staff very much and am always so thankful for everything.”

Another parent, Kristin L., shared how ABA helped her son communicate better:

“He’s been communicating much more with his sign language as well as pronouncing many words… My husband and I can’t wait to see my son’s progress in a year from now.”

One of the most powerful stories comes from Erin G., whose son graduated after more than two years in the program:

“Each tech played a part in our son's success… We initially did in-home, then moved to in-clinic. My son is thriving!”

The experiences show more than just individual achievement; they show how consistent, committed, and professional the EAS staff is. From initial assessments to graduation, every child’s journey is treated with care and purpose.

The staff

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What Other Therapies Are Offered at EAS Sterling Heights?

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Early Autism Services offers ABA therapy as well as other autism treatments to families in Sterling Heights. At this center, you can also receive speech therapy and occupational therapy, both of which can be included in your child’s care plan.

In occupational therapy, kids work on the motor skills they need for everyday tasks (such as dressing/feeding themselves/toileting) plus ways to cope with sensory input so they stay regulated. Speech therapy addresses language issues; some children who have problems forming words also benefit from using PECS/AAC devices to communicate.

As one parent noted:

“They have ABA as well as OT and ST on site… Our experience here has been life altering.”

Having all three therapies under one roof means your child’s development can be supported holistically. The therapists collaborate with each other and with you to ensure consistency across sessions and settings.

Whether your child needs a full spectrum of services or just ABA, EAS Sterling Heights offers a coordinated and compassionate approach that meets families where they are.

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Getting Started: Tips for Caregivers Starting ABA Therapy

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The idea of beginning ABA therapy can seem like a big step. It definitely is one! But with the right support, it could be the most rewarding decision you make for your child. Here are some practical tips for caregivers who are newly involved:

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1. Ask questions right away: When you go in for your intake or consultation appointment, make sure to ask all the questions that come to mind about things like the therapy plan for your child, as well as how progress will be tracked.
2. Stay Patient and Consistent: Results don’t just happen overnight. ABA is about steady, measurable growth; every session builds on the last one.
3. Stay Involved: Children do best when their parents take an active role in therapy. Therapists often share strategies that can be reinforced at home.
4. Trust the Process: Some days will be easier than others. One parent said it best: “Each tech played a part in our son's success… We are forever grateful.”‍
5. Embrace the Support: Beginning ABA therapy at EAS Sterling Heights means signing up for a lot more than just weekly appointments. Whether it’s resources, progress updates, or just emotional encouragement, we are here for you.

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You become part of a team, and not just any team, but one made up of people who really want things to go well for your child both now and in the future.

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Conclusion

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ABA therapy can be life-changing for both, children undergoing treatment and their families. When you choose Early Autism Services in Sterling Heights, you don’t just get great care: you become part of a community that wants nothing more than to help your child flourish.

Every aspect of our service is tailored to your child’s specific requirements, whether it’s expert BCBAs, committed therapists, or available options at home or in our clinic. And thanks to support from most insurance companies, getting started could be simpler than you imagine!

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Ready to take the next step?
Book your free consultation with EAS Sterling Heights today and discover how ABA therapy can make a difference in your child’s life.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

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1. What age is best to start ABA therapy?

‍ABA therapy can be effective at any age, but early intervention, often between ages 2 and 6, tends to yield the best long-term results. EAS welcomes children of various age groups based on their developmental needs.

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2. How many hours of therapy does my child need?

‍The number of hours depends on your child’s assessment. Some children may benefit from 10–15 hours per week, while others may require up to 40 hours. EAS customizes therapy plans based on each child’s goals and abilities.

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3. Is ABA therapy covered by insurance in Michigan?

‍Yes. Most major insurance providers in Michigan including Blue Cross Blue Shield, UnitedHealthcare, Aetna, and Medicaid, cover ABA therapy. EAS helps families verify benefits and manage authorizations.

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4. What’s the difference between in-home and in-clinic ABA therapy?

‍In-home therapy takes place in your child’s familiar environment and focuses on everyday routines.      In-clinic sessions offer a more structured, distraction-free setting with access to specialized tools and social opportunities.

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