FAQs
Beginning services or even starting fresh with a new provider can come with lots of questions, please take a look at some of the most frequently asked questions we get to help clear up any confusion or concerns! If you are still feeling lost or we haven't answered your questions schedule a call with us!
Which areas does Sonder currently service?
Currently we are servicing clients in Los Angeles county for ongoing services. If you have assessment needs and are located outside of Los Angeles County please contact us so we can discuss your needs.
Who works with me and my child?
Currently Sonder's services are offered by BCBAs including direct therapy. Our goal is to improve the implementation of ABA by having highly trained and educated individuals providing services.
Do you accept insurance?
At this time Sonder is not accepting insurance. Some insurance companies will reimburse families for out-of-network providers so we encourage you to call your insurance to find out what benefits and coverage are available to you.
How many hours a week do you recommend?
This is 100% based on the need of the learner and is determined based on results of the assessment conducted at the start of services and the learners stamina. We do not want our learners to feel burnt out or put overly restrictive expectations on them.
What should I prepare for the Initial Assessment?
Please send us a copy of your child's most recent evaluation, IEP, person centered plan, or past ABA reports. Any other information that you think would be helpful we are happy to review.
How long does it take to get started?
Our goal is always to start services within 4 weeks of initial contact or sooner! However, there are variables that may slow down the start of services including delays in receiving signed polices and procedures, difficult with scheduling assessments, illnesses or even vacations. We do our best to work quickly and efficiently!
Do you collaborate with my child's other providers?
Happily! Through years of experience, we have learned that some of our greatest successes come from a strong team approach. BCBAs are not replacement for speech, OT, or PT, but when we work as a team magic happens!
What ages do you work with?
We can provide services to children as young as 2 years through adulthood. We have a unique background and have worked with adults in residential facilities, children in home-based early intervention programs and school aged children in homes and school settings!
Does my child need to have an Autism diagnosis?
An Autism diagnosis is required to receive ABA services through your insurance so if you are looking to use out-of-network reimbursement then yes. However, ABA is a useful therapy for anyone with behavior (so all of us)! We will be upfront with you if your diagnosis or learning needs are not within our scope of practice.
Do I have to participate in Parent Collaboration?
Absolutely! Parent participation and collaboration is a non-negotiable aspect of the therapy we provide. Research has proven that parent participation leads to improved treatment outcomes including better generalization and maintenance of skills. We understand and respect that parent's have busy lives and will do our best to work within your schedule.
What teaching methods will you use?
The decision between strategies like natural environment teaching or discrete trail training are dependent on the learner and the skills being taught. Some learners thrive using DTT, for others it's overly restrictive. We focus on the needs of the learner and how they show us they acquire skills best!
Will you target self-stimulatory behaivor?
The short answer is no, we recognize and respect that stimming for many individuals can be a way to self-soothe, stay regulated in overly stimulating environments, release stress, or manage anxiety. However, at times some stims can be harmful to the learner in which case we will work on identifying a replacement stim that would not cause harm.