Get the Best Behavioral Therapy for Your Child with Autism

Some parents have the luxury of choosing and hiring their own behavioral therapist. Others have therapists selected for them by their child's school, early intervention agency, or other institution. No matter what the source of your child's therapist, though, you should be able to learn more about the therapist. Questions to ask include:

• Does this therapist have Behavior Analyst Certification Board (BACB) certification? Most qualified therapists do have this certification. If yours does not, you can almost certainly find a qualified local therapist through the BACB database.

• Has this therapist worked with children on the autism spectrum before?

• What is your therapist's educational background? Behavioral therapists should have a college degree and (ideally) formal training in special education, child development, or a related field.

• Does your therapist take part in continuing education programs?

• Is the therapist aware of your child's individualized education plan (IEP), and is he or she involved with team meetings and/or working closely with your child's teacher?