Autism Center Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

About Easterseals Washington Autism Centers 

Who do you serve? Individuals on the autism spectrum, ranging from ages 3 to 18 years old. 

What types of services are offered? Applied Behavior Analysis therapy 

What is ABA Therapy? ABA therapy is a way of helping people learn new skills and improve behavior by focusing on understanding what causes the behaviors to occur and what happens after they occur. That knowledge is used to teach new behaviors and reduce conduct that may be harmful or disruptive to the individual’s life, by breaking big skills into smaller, more manageable skills, using reinforcement to encourage new behaviors, and practicing the skills in a structured and supportive way until the individual is able to do it on their own. 

We work on a variety of skills such as communication, play, following directions, self-help, and safety. Everything is tailored to the needs of the individual and those supporting them, to help them thrive to the best of their ability.  

How are therapy goals developed? Goals are developed in collaboration with the client’s family/caregivers, in conjunction with evidence-based assessments. We spend time getting to know the client through direct observations and interactions as well as through a behavioral interview with their caregivers to find out what they’re good at, what’s hard for them, what support is needed, and what’s most important to the family. We aim to prioritize what’s most helpful or meaningful to the client and their family while also making sure that each goal is something the client can realistically learn, which may mean breaking big goals into smaller objectives. 

Who provides therapy? Direct therapy with clients is provided by Registered Behavior Technicians (RBT’s) on a one-to-one basis, with oversight by the Board-Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBAs). The BCBAs are responsible for developing and maintaining client treatment plans. BCBAs are also responsible for developing and delivering caregiver training as well as collaborating with other professionals. 

About Olympic Peninsula Autism Center  

What are your hours of operation? 9am-5pm Monday-Friday. Session times are 9am-1pm and 2pm-5pm 

Where are you located? Clinic is located in Silverdale WA 

What are your rates and insurance options? Washington state currently mandates that all medical insurances cover ABA therapy. We currently accept: Kaiser, Tricare, UnitedHealthCare, Regence, Premera, Aetna, and Medicaid: Molina, ProviderOne, Aetna. Other insurances may be accepted on a case-by-case basis. 

Is there a waitlist? Yes. There is currently a six month wait period. 

Do you offer tours or consultations? Scheduled tours are available. Consultations (with a signed release) with other service providers for current clients are available.  

How do I get started? Complete an ‘enrollment packet’ that provides basic information about child: insurance, brief background, preferences, other services, medications, challenging behaviors, vocal skills, educational placement, caregiver long-term and short-term goals. Completing and returning the enrollment packet will enter the client on the waitlist. Waitlist is prioritized based on need, which leads to improved access to timely care and ensure that we’re matching clients with the right level of service and practitioner. 

Is an autism diagnosis required to enroll? ASD diagnosis is required for insurance to cover services; however, ABA has been shown to be effective for individuals without autism.