The term “ABA programs online” can refer to two different things: online ABA therapy services for children with autism, and online degree programs for aspiring behavior analysts. Both have expanded significantly in recent years. Here is what you need to know about each.

Online ABA Therapy Services

Telehealth ABA therapy grew rapidly during the COVID-19 pandemic and has remained a valuable option for many families. Online ABA services typically include:

• Parent training and coaching: A BCBA guides parents through implementing ABA strategies at home via video call. This is often the most effective use of telehealth, as it empowers parents to support their child throughout the day.
• Direct therapy via video: For older, more verbal children, some therapy activities can be conducted through a screen. This works better for cognitive and language-based goals than for play-based or physical activities.
• Supervision and assessment: BCBAs can observe sessions conducted by in-home RBTs via video, allowing for supervision even when the BCBA cannot be physically present.
• Hybrid models: Many providers combine in-person direct therapy with virtual parent training and supervision sessions.

When Online ABA Therapy Works Best

Telehealth ABA is most effective in certain situations:

• Families in rural areas with limited access to local ABA providers
• Parent training and consultation sessions
• Older children and teens working on social, academic, or independent living skills
• Supplementing in-person therapy with additional virtual sessions
• Families who need schedule flexibility

For young children, children with significant behavioral challenges, or goals requiring hands-on interaction, in-person therapy typically produces better outcomes.

Online BCBA and BCaBA Degree Programs

For those interested in pursuing a career in ABA, several accredited universities offer online graduate programs that meet the coursework requirements for BCBA certification:

• Purdue University Global: Offers an online MS in Psychology with a concentration in Applied Behavior Analysis
• Arizona State University: Online Master of Science in Applied Behavior Analysis
• Ball State University: Online MA in Applied Behavior Analysis
• University of West Florida: Online MS in Applied Behavior Analysis
• Simmons University: Online MS in Behavior Analysis
• Florida Institute of Technology: Online MA in Professional Behavior Analysis

How to Choose a Quality Online ABA Program

Whether you are looking for therapy or education, quality indicators include:

For therapy services:

• BCBAs who are licensed in your state
• Individualized treatment plans, not one-size-fits-all curricula
• Regular data collection and progress monitoring
• Insurance acceptance and transparent pricing
• Strong parent involvement in treatment planning

For degree programs:

• Verification of ABAI (Association for Behavior Analysis International) accreditation or BACB-approved course sequence
• Supervised fieldwork hours included in the program
• Faculty who are practicing BCBAs
• High BCBA exam pass rates for graduates

In-Person ABA Therapy with Treetop

While online options serve an important role, most families benefit most from in-person ABA therapy, especially for young children. At Treetop, we provide center-based, in-home, and school-based ABA therapy with experienced, certified therapists.

We serve families across 11 states, making it convenient to access quality care near you. Contact us to get started. Most insurance plans are accepted, and 79% of families pay $0 out of pocket.