We know reaching out can feel like a big step. This page is here to make it easier. Browse common questions below, or simply reach out — there's no wrong place to start.
Our answers are guided by the same commitments that shape our care: seeing the whole child, partnering with families, practicing with integrity, and focusing on growth that matters.
Whole-Child Care
Family Partnership
Clinical Integrity
Meaningful Growth
How Do We Begin?
You don't need to have everything figured out before reaching out. Here's what the process typically looks like.
Reach Out
Fill out a short inquiry form or give us a call. Tell us a little about your child and what's on your mind.
Intake Conversation
We'll connect to learn about your concerns, answer questions, and discuss what services may be a good fit.
Assessment & Planning
We gather information, observe your child, and develop individualized recommendations with your family.
Begin Services
Services start with clear goals, family collaboration, and a plan built around your child's strengths and your family's priorities.
Frequently Asked Questions
Browse by topic below. If you don't see your question, just reach out — you don't need to know the right service or have everything figured out before contacting us.
Services FAQ
Do you provide ABA therapy?
Yes. We provide ABA services grounded in the science of learning and behavior, with an emphasis on individualized care, caregiver involvement, and neurodiversity-affirming practices.
Do all children receive direct ABA therapy?
No. Some children benefit from direct ABA services, while others may benefit from caregiver coaching, consultation, or a combination. Recommendations are based on assessment findings and family needs.
What is caregiver coaching?
Caregiver coaching helps parents and caregivers build practical strategies to support their child in everyday life. It focuses on real situations at home, in the community, and in daily routines.
Do you provide parent training?
Yes. Parent and caregiver training is a core part of our model. We work alongside families to build skills and confidence — not just provide services to the child.
Do you offer consultation only?
Yes. Families who are not seeking ongoing direct services may be eligible for developmental consultation or caregiver guidance. Contact us to discuss what may be a good fit.
Do you offer group programs?
We offer group-based services when clinically appropriate and available. Contact us to learn about current group offerings.
Our Approach FAQ
How is Ascent's ABA model different from traditional ABA?
We don't use one-size-fits-all programs. Our approach is individualized, caregiver-centered, and focused on goals that improve real quality of life — not compliance or appearance of normalcy.
What does neurodiversity-affirming ABA mean?
It means we use the science of behavior while respecting each child's autonomy, communication style, sensory needs, and identity. We focus on communication, independence, self-advocacy, and participation.
What does assent-based ABA mean?
Assent-based ABA means we pay close attention to a child's willingness to participate and signs of discomfort. We prioritize trust, choice, and respectful interactions throughout every session.
Will my child be forced to participate?
No. We create supportive environments that respect each child's communication and autonomy. Engagement is built through relationship, not pressure.
Do you focus on compliance?
No. Compliance-based approaches are not consistent with our model. We focus on meaningful skills, self-advocacy, and goals that matter to the child and family.
How do you choose goals?
Goals are developed collaboratively with families based on assessment findings, the child's strengths, family priorities, and what will make the most meaningful difference in daily life.
Getting Started FAQ
How do I get started?
Fill out our inquiry form or give us a call. We'll schedule a brief intake conversation to learn about your child, answer your questions, and help determine next steps. You don't need to have everything figured out first.
What happens after I submit the inquiry form?
A member of our team will follow up within 3–5 business days to schedule an intake call. We'll reach out by phone or email based on your preference.
Do I need to know what service my child needs before reaching out?
No. Many families contact us without knowing exactly what they're looking for. That's what the intake conversation is for — we'll help you understand your options.
How long does it take to hear back?
We aim to respond within 3–5 business days. If you have an urgent concern, please note that in your inquiry form.
Assessment & Treatment Planning FAQ
What happens during the assessment process?
The assessment typically includes reviewing developmental history, discussing family concerns and goals, observing the child, and developing individualized recommendations. We involve families throughout the process.
Will my child receive a treatment plan?
Yes. Service plans are individualized based on assessment results, family priorities, and clinical recommendations. Goals are developed collaboratively with caregivers.
How long does the assessment take?
Assessment timelines vary depending on the type of evaluation and the child's needs. We'll give you a clear sense of what to expect during the intake conversation.
Telehealth & Service Location FAQ
Where are services provided?
Services may be provided in the clinic, home, community, or school setting, depending on the type of support and what is most appropriate for the child and family.
Do you offer telehealth?
Some caregiver coaching and consultation services are available via telehealth when it is a good clinical fit. We're committed to making quality support as accessible as possible.
Do you serve families outside Charlotte?
Our primary service area is the Charlotte, NC region. Contact us to discuss whether services may be available for your location or whether telehealth is an option.
Collaboration FAQ
Do you work with schools?
Yes. Depending on the child's needs, we may provide consultation, caregiver guidance, and collaboration related to school participation, behavior, communication, and daily functioning.
Do you collaborate with other providers?
Yes. With caregiver consent, we collaborate with pediatricians, psychologists, speech-language pathologists, occupational therapists, educators, and other professionals involved in a child's care.
Can my child receive Ascent services while also receiving speech, OT, counseling, or other supports?
Yes. We regularly work alongside other providers. Coordinated care is often in the best interest of the child, and we welcome collaboration with your existing team.
Do you provide school-based services?
School-based observation, consultation, collaboration, or support may be available when clinically appropriate and permitted by the school setting. Availability depends on family consent, school approval, provider availability, insurance requirements, and whether the school allows outside providers on campus.
Are school-based services covered by insurance?
Sometimes, but not always. Coverage depends on the insurance company, plan, medical necessity, authorization requirements, service type, and how the service is structured. Some school consultation services may be private pay or consultation-based.
Can Ascent Developmental Group attend school meetings or collaborate with my child's school?
With caregiver consent, Ascent Developmental Group may collaborate with school teams, teachers, and other providers when appropriate. Ascent Developmental Group does not replace IEP, 504, or school-based services, but we may help support consistency across home, school, clinic, and community settings.
Insurance and Funding FAQ
Navigating insurance and funding can feel overwhelming. We'll walk you through your options clearly — no jargon, no pressure.
Do you accept insurance?
Ascent Developmental Group is preparing to accept insurance for eligible ABA services. Many ABA services, including caregiver training or group-based services, may be covered depending on the insurance company, plan, diagnosis, documentation, medical necessity, and authorization requirements. We can help you understand what may apply before services begin.
Is ABA covered by insurance?
Many insurance plans cover ABA therapy when it is medically necessary and properly authorized. Coverage varies by plan. We'll help you understand what may apply to your situation.
Do I need a diagnosis to receive ABA services?
For insurance-funded ABA therapy, most plans currently require a formal diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorder (F84.0). The diagnostic report typically needs to come from a qualified developmental physician, psychologist, or psychiatrist and may need to include tools such as the ADOS-2, ADI-R, or CARS-2. Insurance companies may also require documentation of autism-related symptoms, DSM criteria, severity level, and medical necessity. If you are unsure whether your child's report includes the information needed, you can still reach out — we can help you understand what documentation may be required before authorization can be requested.
What if my child does not have an autism diagnosis?
You can still reach out. Some services may require an autism diagnosis for insurance authorization, especially ABA therapy. However, families may still have questions about caregiver coaching, developmental consultation, private pay options, referrals, or next steps. We can help you think through what may be available and what documentation may be needed.
Do I need a referral?
It depends on your insurance plan and the service requested. Some plans require a referral from a pediatrician; others do not. We'll help you figure out what applies.
What if insurance does not cover the service?
If insurance does not cover a service, we can discuss private pay or consultation-based options when available. We will explain costs and options clearly before services begin.
How We Think About Fit
We believe the best care happens when families and providers are genuinely aligned. Here's a transparent look at who we serve best — and where we may not be the right match.
Ascent may be a good fit if...
- You want caregiver-centered support.
- You value assent-based, neurodiversity-affirming care.
- You want goals tied to real-life outcomes.
- You want a collaborative provider who listens.
- You want support that respects your family's priorities, culture, and values.
We may not be the right fit if...
- You want compliance-based services as the primary approach.
- You want goals focused on making a child appear more neurotypical.
- You prefer high-intensity, one-size-fits-all programming.
- You want services without caregiver collaboration.
What Families Can Expect From Ascent
From your first conversation to ongoing care, these are the commitments that guide everything we do.
Clear Communication
We explain things in plain language and keep you informed.
Respectful Collaboration
You are a partner in your child's care.
Individualized Recommendations
Our recommendations are tailored to your child's unique strengths and needs.
Honest Guidance
We tell you what we genuinely believe is best.
Compassionate Care
Every interaction is grounded in warmth and respect.
Meaningful Outcomes
We focus on goals that improve daily life.
Dignity & Autonomy
We approach every child and caregiver with profound respect.
Caregiver Confidence
We invest in helping families feel supported and capable.
Simple Steps
A clear, low-pressure path from first inquiry to beginning services.
Core Commitments
Values that guide every interaction, recommendation, and moment of care.
Wrong Questions
There's no wrong way to start. Reach out with whatever's on your mind.
Still unsure? That's okay.
You can reach out with questions before starting any formal intake process. There's no pressure and no commitment — just a conversation.
📞 (704) 397-3405 — HIPAA-secure phone
📠 (704) 519-2845 — HIPAA-secure fax
Ascent Developmental Group
ABA Services · Caregiver Coaching · Developmental Support
Charlotte, NC
Get Started
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