Autism Scholarship Program
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Educational Services
Ohio Autism Scholarship Program
The Ohio Autism Scholarship Program at Illuminate ABA Therapy is an initiative that provides financial support to families in Ohio seeking quality ABA therapy for their children who are diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD).
It provides scholarships to eligible students with autism who are between the ages of 3-21 and enrolled into their district’s school.
At Illuminate ABA Therapy, we integrate speech therapy with ABA to provide comprehensive support for children with autism. Our speech therapists are available across our locations to conduct evaluations and deliver personalized therapy sessions tailored to each child’s needs.
Who is Eligible for the Ohio Autism Scholarship Program?
- Child must be enrolled into their district’s school.
Your child may also be enrolled in another non-public school. In this situation, we would provide a request to a new service provider. Please contact us to talk about this option.
- Child must have a current ETR and IEP.
- Child must be diagnosed with autism on their IEP.
If they do not have autism on their current IEP, but are diagnosed with autism, the IEP can be amended to add to qualify. Reach out to talk about this option.
- Child must be aged 3-21 to be eligible.
- Children in Pre-K do qualify under “non specified disability”, but must be enrolled into district school and have current ETR and IEP.
How many hours will Illuminate provide with ASP?
Illuminate will provide 6.5-26 hours weekly, in addition to weekly insurance hours.
Ratio (Child:RBT) & Hours Provided:
- 1:1 – 6.5 hours a week
- 2:1 – 13 hours a week
- 3:1 – 19.5 hours a week
- 4:1 – 26 hours a week
Ohio Autism Scholarship Program
How To Apply
- Proof of Address (within 60 days) e.g. gas, electric, trash, water, or internet bill, monthly mortgage statement or lease agreement with current address listed
- Provide a copy of (electronic or paper) IEP
- Provide a copy of ETR
- Copy of Birth Certificate
- Acceptance of scholarship funds form (once application and documents are submitted and approved within the system)
Meet the Team
Common Questions About Speech Therapy in ABA
What is the role of speech therapy in ABA?
Speech therapy in the context of ABA (Applied Behavior Analysis) focuses on improving communication skills in children with autism. While ABA addresses behavioral challenges, speech therapy targets specific speech and language issues, helping children develop the ability to communicate more effectively, whether through verbal speech or alternative methods.
How does speech therapy help children with autism?
Speech therapy helps children with autism by addressing the unique challenges they face in communication. Therapists work on improving articulation, understanding social cues, strengthening the muscles involved in speech, and practicing conversation skills. For children who are nonverbal, therapists may introduce Alternative Augmentative Communication (AAC) methods to enable effective communication.
How long does ABA therapy take to show results?
Yes, speech therapy can be highly effective for nonverbal children. Therapists often use AAC methods like sign language, speech output devices, or Picture Exchange Communication Systems (PECS) to provide alternative ways for nonverbal children to communicate. These tools, combined with consistent practice and therapy, can greatly improve a child's ability to express their needs and interact with others.
At what age should a child start speech therapy?
It’s generally recommended to start speech therapy as early as possible, ideally soon after an autism diagnosis. Early intervention is crucial as it can significantly impact a child's developmental trajectory, helping them to develop essential communication skills during their formative years. However, speech therapy can be beneficial at any age, and it’s never too late to start.
What techniques are used in speech therapy for children with autism?
Speech therapists use a variety of techniques to help children with autism. These may include exercises to strengthen the muscles used in speech, practicing articulation and pronunciation, learning to match emotions with facial expressions, and improving social interaction skills. For nonverbal children, therapists may introduce AAC methods to provide alternative ways to communicate. Each therapy plan is customized to meet the specific needs of the child.
