Texas Connections Podcast

Inside TxABA: Leadership, Advocacy & the Future of Behavior Analysis in Texas   Join Texas Association for Behavior Analysis leadership as President Berenice de la Cruz and Executive Director Rachel Kramer share the story behind the organization’s 40+ year impact, growth, and mission to support behavior analysts across Texas.   Objectives: Mission: To disseminate and support the science and practice of behavior analysis throughout Texas. Advocacy: Secure a year-round lobbyist to obtain a seat at the decision-making table in Austin, which is currently prevented by low TXABA and Public Policy Group (PPG) membership levels. Licensure and Policy: Continue the work that led to licensure for behavior analysts in Texas in 2018, which paved the way for Medicaid benefits. Community: Unify behavior analysts, foster community, and support members across the state, including establishing local Special Interest Groups (SIGs).   🎓 Earn 1 FREE CEU/PDU Listen for the code word at the end and email your name + code to: [email protected]   📍 Upcoming Conference: April 9–12 Connect with professionals across Houston, San Antonio, Dallas-Fort Worth—and beyond!   TxABA is more than an organization—it’s a community. Whether you're a seasoned BCBA or just entering the field, your voice and involvement matter.   👉 Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more conversations shaping the future of behavior analysis.

In Episode 2, we dive into one of the biggest challenges families face after an autism diagnosis—how to afford quality care. This conversation focuses on funding opportunities and scholarships available for children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), especially for families seeking Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy when cost becomes a barrier.   We’re joined by Lauren McCown, Executive Director of the Foundation for Autism Care, Education and Services (FACES Autism), who shares her journey into the autism community and the life-changing impact of ABA therapy. She also gives an inside look at how FACES Autism is helping families across Houston access critical services through scholarships and community support. With ABA therapy costs reaching up to $5,000 per month, many families struggle even with insurance due to deductibles, co-pays, and coverage gaps. Since its founding in 2006, FACES Autism has awarded over $3.4 million in scholarships to help bridge these financial gaps—supporting dozens of families each year.   📌 Important for families: FACES Autism’s next board meeting is in June. If you are interested in applying for scholarship support, be sure to submit your application by May 5th to be considered. In this episode, you’ll learn: How autism therapy funding and scholarships work What the FACES Autism scholarship process looks like Who qualifies and how applications are reviewed Additional support opportunities for families and professionals How community partnerships and donations directly impact access to care We also highlight the importance of early intervention, current ASD prevalence (now affecting approximately 1 in 31 children), and how community involvement plays a critical role in improving outcomes for children and families. Whether you’re a parent, provider, or community member looking to make a difference, this episode offers valuable insight into navigating the financial side of autism care. 🔗 Learn more or support FACES Autism: facesautism.org 📞 Contact: 281-757-6750   #AutismAwareness #ASD #ABATherapy #AutismSupport #SpecialNeeds #Nonprofit #Houston #AutismResources

Episode 1: Navigating Health Insurance Plans for Autism Services   Choosing the right health insurance plan can make a huge difference for families seeking Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy for children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). In this first episode, we break down the complexities of insurance coverage and the challenges families face when trying to access autism services.   Insurance specialist Justin B., who has worked in the industry since 2004, shares practical insights on how families can avoid common pitfalls when selecting a plan. We discuss the Texas insurance landscape, differences between Gold and Bronze plans, dual coverage options, Medicaid considerations, and how state law impacts ABA coverage.   We also explore long-term planning for families, provider network considerations, and how to evaluate the true cost of an insurance plan beyond the monthly premium.   If you’re a parent, caregiver, or professional supporting children with autism, this episode provides helpful guidance on making informed insurance decisions.   Resources mentioned: Justin B. – [email protected] (consultations available) Insurance navigation support – [email protected] Facebook group – Texas Autism Insurance Group 👍   Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share if you found this helpful.   #Autism #ABAtherapy #AutismSupport #HealthInsurance #TexasAutism