What Is ABA Therapy?

Plain answers to the questions Oʻahu families ask us most.

What is ABA therapy?

Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) is a research-based therapy that helps children with autism and other developmental differences learn important life, communication, and social skills. It works by understanding the function of a behavior — why it happens — and teaching skills that meet that need in a better way.

At Golden Rule ABA, connection and understanding come first. We focus on communication from day one, because a child who can be understood is a child who can thrive. Our approach blends ABA principles with a deep understanding of each family’s circumstances, so treatment considers the whole child — well-being and quality of life, not just behavior.

Who is ABA therapy for?

Children with autism spectrum disorder and other developmental differences. Therapy typically begins after a physician or nurse practitioner makes the diagnosis and orders ABA therapy. Every program is individualized: goals come from your child’s assessment and your family’s priorities, not from a template.

Where do sessions happen, at home or in a clinic?

Both. Our clinic is at 1448 Liliha St, Suite 201 in Honolulu, open Monday to Friday, 8:30 AM to 6:00 PM. Many families choose in-home therapy so skills are learned where your child actually uses them. Sessions can also blend clinic, home, school, and community settings, and parent support is available by secure telehealth video.

What areas of Oʻahu do you serve?

We provide in-home ABA therapy across Oʻahu, including:

Who works with my child, and who supervises?

A Registered Behavior Technician (RBT) works with your child in each session — the same face, showing up consistently and building trust one visit at a time. A Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) assesses your child, writes the treatment plan with you, supervises the RBT regularly, reviews the data, and adjusts the plan as your child grows. Our staff are trained in Safety-Care Behavioral Safety Training, a leading crisis-prevention course.

How involved are parents?

Parents are team members. You will sometimes be in the session and always be kept up to date, session by session. Sometimes parents are the ones helping their child with treatment while the therapist checks in by telehealth to support them. We track data on every goal so we can show you, not just tell you, that your child is moving forward.

How long does it take to get started?

It depends on your insurance and staff availability. Waitlist time is 0–90 days, in the order requests are received. Checking eligibility and pre-authorizing assessments takes 1–3 weeks to hear back from insurance. Assessments are scheduled over 1–2 weeks, and insurance responds to the treatment authorization within 1–4 weeks. We handle the paperwork and keep you updated the whole way.

Which insurance plans are you in network with?

We are in network with:

Private pay is also available.

How do I get started?

Email aloha@goldenruleaba.com or use our secure intake form. A real person responds, asks about your child and your family, and guides you through every step.

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