# How do I start my own ABA practice as a BCBA?

> The main steps, from business setup and credentialing with payers to hiring and choosing tools, and the questions to answer first.

URL: https://theautismkit.com/guides/starting-an-aba-practice
By The Autism Kit team · Updated 2026-09-27

**Short answer:** Starting an ABA practice usually means forming a business, getting state licensure where required, credentialing with insurance payers, writing clinical and privacy policies, choosing practice management and data tools, and hiring and training RBTs. Credentialing can take months, so start early. Build quality in from day one with clear supervision systems and caregiver involvement.

**Key takeaways**
- Set up the **business**, **licensure** and **insurance** early.
- **Payer credentialing** can take **months**.
- Write **clinical, supervision and privacy policies** before hiring.
- Choose **tools** for scheduling, billing, data and caregiver training.

## What are the main steps?

1. **Plan the service model.** In-home, clinic, school consultation or a mix; ages and needs you'll serve.
2. **Form the business.** Entity, tax ID, business banking, professional liability insurance.
3. **Licensure.** Check your state's behavior analyst licensure rules.
4. **Credential with payers.** Commercial insurers, Medicaid and others, each with its own process.
5. **Write policies.** Clinical standards, supervision, privacy and security, incidents, and caregiver involvement.
6. **Choose tools.** Practice management and billing, data collection, and caregiver training.
7. **Hire and train.** RBT recruiting, the 40-hour training, and a supervision plan.

## How do billing codes fit in?

Most U.S. insurers use the adaptive behavior CPT codes. A new code set takes effect **January 1, 2027**.[2] See [What are the ABA CPT codes?](https://theautismkit.com/guides/aba-cpt-codes)

**Guidelines worth reading.** The Council of Autism Service Providers publishes practice guidelines that many payers and providers reference.
  [1]

## How do I build quality in from day one?

- A **supervision system** with clear expectations and regular observation
- **Caregiver training** built into every plan
- **Assent-based** practices and individualized goals
- An **ethics** culture where staff can raise concerns[3]

**Make home carryover easy.** When families use the same visual supports at home as in session, skills carry over better. The Autism Kit Pro gives
  families a discount on the home app.

## What can I do this month?

- [ ] Write your service model on one page
- [ ] Check your state's licensure rules
- [ ] List the payers you'll credential with
- [ ] Talk to a healthcare attorney and accountant

## Common questions

### How long does insurance credentialing take?

It varies by payer and state, and often takes several months. Many new practices start credentialing before they open.

### Do I need a lawyer or accountant?

It's wise. Business structure, contracts, employment law and privacy rules have real consequences. A healthcare-experienced attorney and accountant can save you trouble later.

### Can I start with private pay only?

Some practices do, especially for consultation or school services. It's simpler to launch but limits which families can access you.

## Sources

1. Council of Autism Service Providers: ABA practice guidelines for autism. https://www.casproviders.org/asd-guidelines
2. ABA Coding Coalition: ABA billing codes. https://www.abacodes.org/codes
3. Behavior Analyst Certification Board: Ethics codes. https://www.bacb.com/ethics-information/ethics-codes/

General guidance, not a diagnosis or treatment plan. Talk with your pediatrician or a developmental specialist about your child's care.