FAQs About Aspire
Counseling FAQs
Who do you provide counseling/psychotherapy for?
We provide therapy and counseling for children, teens, young adults, and adults. Sessions can be held in-person in Montgomery County or virtually across Pennsylvania.
What concerns do you treat in therapy?
Our clinicians support individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, ADHD, autism, trauma, grief, life transitions, behavioral challenges, and more. We use evidence-based approaches such as CBT, DBT, play therapy, trauma-informed care, and mindfulness.
What happens during the first few therapy session?
The first session (often called an intake) is a chance to discuss your concerns, goals, and history. It’s a time to build trust, ask questions, and begin developing a plan tailored to your needs.
How long do sessions last, and how often are they scheduled?
Sessions usually last 45–50 minutes and are often scheduled weekly. The frequency may be adjusted depending on your goals and progress.
Are sessions confidential?
Yes. Therapy is private and confidential, with a few legal exceptions related to safety (for example, if there is risk of harm to self or others, or suspected abuse).
Do you provide therapy for siblings or parents?
Yes, Aspire provides counseling and psychotherapy for children, teens, young adults, and adults. This means that siblings and parents can also access support if needed. For families seeking additional adult-focused services outside our scope, we can provide referrals to trusted providers.
Do you accept insurance for counseling/psychotherapy?
Insurance is not accepted for counseling/psychotherapy. We offer private-pay options and can provide a Good Faith Estimate. You can check out this page for information on reimbursement through your insurance.
Diagnostic Testing FAQs
How do I know if my child should be evaluated?
If your child is struggling with learning, social, emotional, or behavioral functioning, an evaluation can provide clarity. Our licensed psychologists conduct comprehensive diagnostic testing to identify autism, ADHD, learning disabilities, or other conditions.
What is the process for diagnostic testing?
Testing includes:
- A clinical interview to gather history
- One-on-one testing in areas such as cognition, academic skills, memory, executive functioning, and emotional/behavioral functioning
- Rating scales from parents, teachers, or caregivers
- A detailed written report with diagnoses (if criteria are met) and recommendations
- A feedback session to review results and next steps
Can testing support school accommodations (IEPs and 504 plans)?
Yes. Our evaluations often provide documentation needed for accommodations such as extended test time, alternative materials, or special education services. Many families come to Aspire for a second opinion or clearer guidance in working with their child’s school team.
How long does testing take, start to finish?
Most evaluations are completed over two to four sessions, depending on the type of testing. After the testing sessions, we schedule a feedback appointment to review results (in-person or virtual). Families receive the written report at feedback.
Do you accept insurance for Diagnostic Testing Services?
Insurance is not accepted for diagnostic testing services. We offer private-pay options and can provide a Good Faith Estimate. You can check out this page for information on reimbursement through your insurance.
What if my child doesn’t receive a diagnosis, will we still get recommendations?
Yes. Every evaluation includes a detailed written report with practical recommendations, whether or not a diagnosis is given. We focus on identifying strengths, areas of need, and specific strategies or accommodations that can help your child succeed.
Do you provide follow-up after the evaluation?
Absolutely. Families often schedule follow-up sessions to discuss progress, update recommendations, or review how supports are working in school or at home. We also provide re-evaluations when needed, such as during key transitions (elementary to middle school, high school to college).
ABA Therapy FAQs
What is IBHS?
IBHS stands for Intensive Behavioral Health Services. These services provide individualized behavioral support for children and adolescents up to age 21 in the home, school, community, or center-based setting.
What is ABA therapy, and how does it fit into IBHS?
Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) is an evidence-based approach that helps children build important skills (like communication, social interaction, and self-care) while reducing challenging behaviors. Under the IBHS model, ABA is delivered through structured treatment plans, progress monitoring, and family involvement.
Who provides IBHS-ABA services at Aspire?
Your child’s care team may include:
- A Licensed Behavioral Consultant (BC), such as a BCBA (Board-Certified Behavior Analyst) or Licensed Behavior Specialist, who completes assessments, develops the treatment plan, and oversees progress.
- A Behavioral Health Technician (BHT), who works directly with your child to implement strategies in home, school, or community settings.
How do we start IBHS-ABA services?
A licensed professional issues a Written Order confirming medical necessity and eligibility (often with an autism or behavioral health diagnosis). Aspire’s BC then conducts a Functional Behavior Assessment and develops an Individualized Treatment Plan (ITP). Services begin with a BHT working directly with your child, overseen by the Behavioral Consultant. Progress is monitored regularly, and plans are updated as needed (often every 6 months).
What types of skills does ABA help develop?
ABA can support skills in areas such as:
- Communication and language
- Social interaction and play
- Daily living/self-care
- Emotional regulation and coping
- Reducing aggression, self-injury, or other unsafe behaviors
How do parents participate in IBHS-ABA?
Family involvement is key. Parents receive training, updates, and strategies so that skills learned in therapy carry over into everyday life.
What outcomes can we expect?
With consistent therapy and family participation, ABA can help children gain independence, improve communication, reduce problem behaviors, and build confidence. Early engagement often leads to the best long-term results.
Do you accept insurance for ABA Services?
Yes, Aspire accepts many major insurance plans for IBHS-ABA services.
Additional FAQs Parents May Have
How do you support children who are anxious about testing or therapy?
We know new experiences can feel overwhelming. Our clinicians create a calm, child-friendly environment and take time to explain what will happen in simple, reassuring language. Breaks, play, and flexibility are built into sessions to help children feel comfortable and supported.
What makes Aspire different from other providers?
Aspire is more than an ABA agency; we offer a full spectrum of services under one roof: diagnostic testing, counseling, and IBHS-ABA. Our clinicians specialize in autism, learning differences, ADHD, and emotional/behavioral health, and we support individuals across the lifespan. This means your family doesn’t need to switch providers as your child grows. We combine clinical expertise with compassion and a family-centered approach so that you always feel supported and understood.
How do you involve parents/caregivers in therapy or testing?
Parents and caregivers are an essential part of the process. For therapy, involvement may include regular updates, parent sessions, and take-home strategies to practice between appointments. For testing, parents are included in the intake and feedback sessions, and recommendations always include ways families can support growth at home.
Do you coordinate with schools or pediatricians?
Yes. With your written consent, we are happy to collaborate with teachers, schools, and healthcare providers. This ensures consistent communication and that recommendations are applied across all settings.
How quickly can we get an appointment?
Availability varies depending on the service. We work hard to minimize wait times and often schedule intakes and initial consultations for counseling/therapy and diagnostic testing within a few weeks. IBHS-ABA services may take longer due to insurance approval and staffing needs, but our team will guide you step-by-step through the process.
Our goal is to make every individual feel supported, understood, and equipped with the tools they need to thrive. If you’re considering therapy, counseling, or diagnostic testing for yourself or a loved one, our team is ready to help you take the next step.
📞 Call 267-388-0670 or complete this form to reach out to our care team today.