Frequently Asked Questions

If you don’t find the answer to your question here, please feel free to contact us directly, and we will be happy to assist you.

What is Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA)Therapy?

Applied Behavior Analysis, or ABA therapy, is an evidence-based approach that helps children learn meaningful skills by understanding how learning and behavior work together. ABA strengthens positive behaviors such as communication, social interaction, play, independence, and emotional regulation while reducing behaviors that may interfere with daily life.

At ABC Health, ABA is warm, playful, individualized, and never one-size-fits-all. We blend structured learning with natural play-based teaching so children learn in a way that feels enjoyable and empowering. Each treatment plan is fully customized to your child’s strengths, needs, and learning style, allowing for steady, meaningful progress that truly matters in everyday life.

How can I determine if ABA therapy is right for my child?

ABA may be a great fit if your child benefits from individualized teaching, clear structure, and tools that help build communication, play, social, and self-help skills. ABA can also be helpful for children who experience challenges with transitions, emotional regulation, or behaviors that make daily routines difficult.

At ABC Health, we begin with a thoughtful conversation and a comprehensive assessment. We take the time to understand your child as a whole person — their strengths, interests, and challenges, as well as your goals as a parent. Families frequently share that after meeting with us, they feel heard, supported, and confident about whether ABA is the right path.

What does a typical ABA session look like?

A typical session is active, engaging, and tailored specifically to your child. Depending on the goals of their treatment plan, a session may include play-based learning, communication practice, social interactions, and real-life skill-building, such as turn-taking or following routines.

Our technicians and BCBAs work one-on-one and in small groups, helping your child learn skills they can confidently use at home, in school, and in daily life. Sessions are designed to be enjoyable, motivating, and deeply supportive so children feel safe and excited to learn.

How long will my child need ABA therapy?

The length of therapy varies for each child and depends on their individual goals, learning style, and progress over time. Some children participate in ABA for a shorter period to focus on specific skills, while others benefit from longer-term support to build foundational communication, social, and independence skills.

We continually monitor progress and adjust goals, ensuring therapy remains purposeful, effective, and aligned with your child’s growth. Our goal is always the same: meaningful progress that supports long-term success.

Do you accept insurance?

Yes. We accept most major insurance plans for ABA services. Our team handles benefit checks, authorizations, and all required documentation so you have clarity about coverage before therapy begins. We know navigating insurance can feel overwhelming, so we walk with you through every step, making the process smooth and stress-free.

What age groups do you serve?

We specialize in early childhood and elementary-aged children, with a strong focus on early intervention through our Early Learners Program. These early years are a powerful time for growth, and our programs are designed to build strong foundations in communication, social development, school readiness, and independence.

How do you incorporate play into learning?

At ABC Health, play is at the heart of everything we do. Young children learn best when they feel safe, engaged, and joyful, which is why we use play as a natural and effective way to teach meaningful skills. Our team uses evidence-based ABA strategies within playful activities that capture your child’s interests, spark curiosity, and motivate learning.

During play, children practice communication, social interaction, problem-solving, emotional regulation, and early academic skills without even realizing they are doing something therapeutic. Whether it’s building with blocks, engaging in pretend play, playing simple games, or exploring sensory activities, every moment has purpose. Our technicians and BCBAs follow your child’s lead, turn their interests into learning opportunities, and gently guide them toward new skills within activities they already love.

This approach not only helps children make faster, more meaningful progress, but also builds confidence, strengthens relationships, and makes learning feel natural. Parents often tell us that the joy their child experiences in therapy carries over into home life — a sign that progress is truly taking root. Through play, we help children develop the foundational skills they need for long-term success, school readiness, and a lifelong love of learning.

What should I expect during the intake and assessment process?

During intake, we take the time to get to know your child and your family. You will meet with a BCBA who listens to your concerns, learns about your child’s needs, and answers all your questions. We then conduct a comprehensive assessment that includes observation, standardized tools, and parent input.

This process helps us create an individualized treatment plan that reflects your child’s unique strengths and developmental needs. Families often share that they leave the assessment feeling understood, supported, and hopeful about the path ahead.

How involved are parents in the therapy process?

Parents are at the heart of everything we do. We partner closely with families through ongoing parent training, coaching, and guidance sessions. Our goal is to empower you with tools that translate into real-life success at home, school, and in the community.

You will always know what your child is working on, how they are progressing, and how you can support their growth between sessions. We truly believe your voice and insight are essential to meaningful, lasting progress.

What makes ABC Health different from other clinics?

Families tell us the difference is clear the moment they walk through our doors. Our clinic was created by a mother and Board Certified Behavior Analyst who deeply understands both the emotional and practical sides of raising a child with unique needs. The space is warm, bright, and intentionally designed to feel inviting and hopeful — not clinical or impersonal.

We combine professional expertise with genuine compassion. Our center is BCBA-owned and clinician-led, not corporate or profit-driven. This means decisions are guided by what is best for your child, not by quotas or pressure. Every child receives individualized care, every family receives real partnership, and every milestone is celebrated.

Where is your clinic located?

Our clinic is located in Worth, Illinois, in the Southwest Suburbs of Chicago. We chose this location to make high-quality ABA services easily accessible to families throughout the surrounding communities.

Worried Your Child May Not Be Meeting Their Milestones?
Don’t Wait — Early Support Matters.

Every child grows at their own pace, but there are key milestones most children reach around certain ages. If you feel that your child is missing critical milestones, it’s okay to ask questions. Early support can make a big difference.

The M-CHAT-R (for ages 16–30 months) is a quick (AND FREE) research-based screening for parents. It takes about 5 minutes and helps identify when to seek further support.

ABC Health of Illinois
11220 S. Harlem Avenue,
Worth, IL 60482

p: (708) 671-8504 | f: (708) 671-8856

 

© Copyright ABC Health of Illinois, Inc.

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Thank you for your interest in joining our ABA team. Once completed and sent, please upload your resume to abchealthillinois@gmail.com

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Our Founder and Director

At ABC Health, we understand the hopes, challenges, and questions that come with raising a child on the autism spectrum, because we’ve been there too. Our founder, Lila Ayyad-Alharsha, M.Ed., LBA., BCBA., IBA, brings more than 28 years of experience and a unique perspective to ABC Health. As a parent of an adult on the autism spectrum, she built the company with a deep understanding of both the professional and personal sides of autism care.

With a background in early childhood education, special education, school leadership, and, as a Board Certified Behavior Analyst, Lila approaches every family with a 360° perspective — as a parent, educator, and clinician. This blend of personal experience and professional expertise allows her to meet each family’s unique needs.

In addition to her BCBA certification, Lila is certified in school administration with a Type 75 certification, and as a general and special education teacher. She has served as the Director of Education for a therapeutic day school serving students from more than 30 school districts in Illinois.

This blend of heart and expertise is at the core of everything we do. Our programs are designed to help children thrive while ensuring families feel guided, understood, and never alone.