GETTING STARTED

Your first step is
a conversation.

We know reaching out for services can feel like a big step. We will explain the process, answer questions, and help you understand what information may be needed.

THE INTAKE JOURNEY

What the process looks like.

Each family's timeline is different. The sequence below is a general guide; payer rules, clinical needs, and service availability may affect individual steps.

1

Start with a phone call or email

Tell us where you live, how to reach you, and a little about the support you are seeking. We can discuss our service area, current availability, and general next steps. Please do not send sensitive health information through an ordinary email or general website form.

2

Initial conversation and caregiver interview

We learn about your child's strengths, interests, communication, developmental history, daily routines, family priorities, and concerns. We will also explain our services and answer questions.

3

Diagnosis and records review

For the ABA services EmberRise is planning to provide, families should have documentation of an Autism Spectrum Disorder diagnosis. We review the diagnostic evaluation and other relevant records. Specific documentation, referral, or provider-order requirements depend on the payer and applicable program. If you are unsure what you have, contact us and we can explain what to look for.

4

Insurance and benefit review

With your permission, we gather the information needed to check benefits, network participation, eligibility, referral rules, and prior-authorization requirements. We discuss any known family financial responsibility before services are scheduled. Benefit checks are not guarantees of payment.

5

Intake paperwork and consent

We explain required forms and obtain appropriate caregiver consent and releases. This may include contact and guardian information, insurance details, diagnostic records, medical history relevant to treatment, and permission to coordinate with other providers when appropriate.

6

Individualized intake assessment

A qualified BCBA completes clinically appropriate interviews, record reviews, observations, and assessment activities. Assessment tools are selected based on the child's age, skills, needs, and clinical questions—not every child receives the same assessment battery.

7

Individualized treatment plan

Assessment information and caregiver priorities guide recommendations and measurable goals. Goals may address functional communication, social interaction, adaptive and daily living skills, play, learning readiness, participation, and behavior support when clinically indicated.

8

Authorization and scheduling

When a payer requires prior authorization, clinical documentation is submitted for review. Services begin only after required approvals, provider/payer conditions, and scheduling arrangements are in place. The amount and type of service recommended are individualized and are not guaranteed by an initial inquiry.

9

Services begin and progress is monitored

The team reviews the treatment plan with the family, coordinates scheduling, and begins services. Progress is monitored through ongoing data collection, clinical supervision, caregiver collaboration, and periodic review of goals and recommendations.

WHAT TO HAVE READY

A few helpful items.

You do not need to have every document in hand before you contact us.

  • Autism diagnostic evaluation or documentation of diagnosis
  • Insurance card, if applicable (front and back, shared through an approved secure process)
  • Parent or legal guardian contact information
  • Relevant medical, developmental, school, or therapy records, if available
  • Referral or provider order, if required by the insurance plan or program
  • A list of questions or family priorities you would like to discuss

We can help you understand which items are needed for your particular situation.

INSURANCE & FAMILY ACCESS

We want to explore options with you.

EmberRise is committed to working with families across a variety of insurance and financial circumstances. We are willing to discuss a range of insurance plans and help families understand possible coverage and payment pathways. Actual participation, in-network status, covered benefits, eligibility, and authorization must be confirmed individually. We cannot promise that every plan will cover ABA services.

Our nonprofit mission includes a commitment to reducing barriers to care. Any charitable assistance program will operate under formally established eligibility, funding, and governance procedures.

Have questions? We are happy to talk.

You do not need to navigate the process alone. Start with a call or email and we can take it one step at a time.

Call 801-648-0113 Email us