ABA waitlist terms, explained
Looking for ABA therapy comes with its own vocabulary. Here are short, plain-language definitions of the terms families hear most on intake and insurance calls, with links to the guides that go deeper.
- ABA
Short for applied behavior analysis. ABA therapy is delivered by ABA providers, at home and in the community or in a clinic.
- ABA waitlist
A provider's list of families waiting for a first opening. Waitlists are not first come, first served everywhere. Providers may prioritize by age, insurance, location or schedule, so many families join several lists at once.
Read: How to get ABA therapy faster- Opening
A spot a provider can offer a new client now. On Waitless, providers update openings weekly and each listing shows when it was last updated.
- Intake
The first steps once a provider has a spot for your child, when they gather your paperwork and insurance details. Keeping the diagnosis report, any referral and your insurance card in one folder helps intake move quickly.
- Referral
A written request for ABA from your child's doctor or another clinician. Some plans require one before ABA can start, so ask your plan whether yours does.
- In-network provider
A provider that has a contract with your insurance plan. Your insurer's member services line can tell you which ABA providers are in network.
- Out-of-network provider
A provider without a contract with your plan. If no in-network provider can see your child in a reasonable time, ask your plan about out-of-network options.
- Single-case agreement
A one-time arrangement between your plan and a specific provider for one client. Families often ask about one when no in-network provider can see their child in a reasonable time.
Approval from your insurance plan before a service starts. When you call your insurer about ABA, ask whether prior authorization is needed.
- Case manager
A person at your insurance or Medicaid plan who helps members find care. Case managers often know which providers have openings.
- In-home ABA
ABA delivered at home and in the community, where parents can learn strategies directly.
Read: In-home vs center-based ABA- Center-based ABA
ABA delivered in a clinic, with peers for social practice and more resources.
Read: In-home vs center-based ABA- Capacity feed
The Waitless subscription for ABA agencies to publish openings and receive matched requests. It costs a flat $199 to $499 per month, never per referral.
Still have questions?
Start with what to do while you wait for ABA, or browse all guides.
See which providers have openings now and how long waits are for your insurance.
Find ABA openings near you