Caregivers

What Is ABA?

“Applied Behavior Analysis”

Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) is a therapy based on the science of learning and behavior.  At Dogwood, ABA involves careful design of learning opportunities that motivate your child. 

Our application of developmentally appropriate goals provides your child with individualized opportunities to expand their skills for communication, play, social interactions, and school readiness in a natural environment. 

We consistently monitor your child’s program and their progress, and we make regular adjustments to keep your child on track to meet their goals.

Early Signs of Autism

The autism diagnosis age and intensity of autism’s early signs vary widely. Some infants show hints in their first months, in others, as late as two or three years of age.

Not all children with autism show all the signs. Many children who don’t have autism show a few. That’s why we recommend a professional evaluation as early as possible.

This list of early signs may indicate your child is at risk for an autism spectrum disorder. If your child exhibits any of the following, ask your pediatrician or family doctor for an evaluation right away.

Early Signs of Autism information provided by the CDC

    • Few or no big smiles or other warm, joyful, engaging expresssions

    • Limited or no eye contact

    • Little or no babbling

    • Little or no back-and-forth gestures such as pointing, showing, reaching or waving

    • Little or no response to name

    • Very few or no words

    • Very few or no meaningful, two-word phrases (not including imitating or repeating)

    • Loss of previously acquired speech or social skills

    • Avoidance of eye contact

    • Persistent preference for solitude

    • Difficulty understanding other people’s feelings

    • Delayed language development

    • Persistent repetition of words or phrases

    • Resistance to minor changes in routine or surroundings

    • Restricted interests

    • Repetitive behaviors (flapping, rocking, spinning, etc.)

    • Unusual and intense reactions to sounds, smells, tastes, textures, lights and/or colors

Diagnostic Referrals

Referral list created and maintained by Southside Support Group

Provider Referrals

Speech, OT, PT + More!

Referral list created and maintained by Southside Support Group

In-Network Insurances*

Aetna

Amerigroup

Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield

CareSource

Cigna

Georgia Medicaid

United Healthcare

* In-network insurance is NOT required for services. We gladly accept direct fee for service AND we work with most out-of-network insurances that cover ABA!

Peach State Health Plan

Katie Beckett Medicaid

The Katie Beckett Deeming Waiver is a non-income based form of Medicaid intended to help families cover out of pocket costs associated with ABA services beyond what private insurance will cover.

If you plan to apply for the Katie Beckett Deeming Waiver, please consider consulting an advocacy group to expedite the process.