1. Credentials & Qualifications
What are your qualifications and credentials?
Why: Ensure proper training and oversight.
Good answer: "Our clinical supervisor is a BCBA with 10+ years experience. Senior therapists have minimum 5 years experience."
Is the agency OAP-approved?
Why: Only approved providers can accept OAP funding directly.
Good answer: "Yes, we're on the OAP provider list and can direct bill OAP for approved services."
What ongoing training do staff receive?
Why: Autism treatment evolves. Staff should stay current.
Good answer: "Monthly clinical training, annual certification updates, and weekly team supervision."
2. Treatment Approach & Philosophy
What is your treatment philosophy?
Why: Align on values and approach to your child's development.
Good answer: "Family-centered, neurodiversity-affirming, focused on functional skills and quality of life."
Red flag: Focus only on compliance/elimination of autistic behaviors.
How do you individualize programs?
Why: Cookie-cutter approaches don't work for autism.
Good answer: "Each child has a unique assessment and customized goals based on their strengths and needs."
How do you measure progress?
Why: Data should drive decisions about your child's program.
Good answer: "We track daily data, review weekly, and provide comprehensive progress reports monthly."
3. Practical Logistics
What is your current waitlist?
Why: Some providers have additional waitlists beyond OAP.
Good answer: "We have openings in 2-3 months. We can provide interim support while you wait."
What are your hours and location options?
Why: Sessions need to fit your family's schedule and logistics.
Good answer: "We offer in-home, center-based, and virtual options. Hours include evenings and weekends."
What is the therapist-to-child ratio?
Why: Individual attention vs. group settings affect outcomes.
Good answer: "1:1 for intensive ABA, small groups (2-3) for social skills programs."
What happens if my child is sick or we need to cancel?
Why: Know cancellation policies and make-up options.
Good answer: "24-hour notice for cancellations. We offer two make-up sessions per month."
4. Parent & Family Involvement
How are parents involved in treatment?
Why: Parent involvement is critical for generalization of skills.
Good answer: "Parents observe sessions, receive training, and we have regular team meetings."
Red flag: "We prefer parents not be present during sessions."
How do you communicate with families?
Why: Regular communication keeps everyone aligned.
Good answer: "Daily session notes via portal, weekly emails, monthly in-person meetings."
Do you offer parent training?
Why: Parent training empowers you to support your child's development.
Good answer: "Yes, we include parent training as part of our service package."
5. Financial & Insurance
What are your rates?
Why: Know costs upfront. OAP funding has hourly limits.
Good answer: Clear breakdown of rates by service type (ABA, OT, Speech, assessment).
Do you direct bill OAP or private insurance?
Why: Direct billing saves you out-of-pocket expenses and paperwork.
Good answer: "We direct bill OAP and most major insurance plans."
Are there additional fees (assessments, materials, reports)?
Why: Hidden costs add up. Know the full picture.
Good answer: "Transparent fee schedule with no surprise charges."
Red flag: Evasive about fees or charges for basic items.