What to ask during a clinic tour or intake call

A good tour helps you evaluate fit (not just availability)

Families often feel pressure to accept the first opening they can get. A short, focused list of questions can help you choose a clinic that matches your child’s needs and your family’s priorities.

Clinical care + goals

• How do you set goals? Are goals practical (communication, safety, daily living)?
• How do you measure progress? What data do you collect and how often is it reviewed?
• Who supervises the program? How often does the BCBA observe and update the plan?
• How do you handle challenging behavior? What’s your plan for safety and de-escalation?

Staffing + continuity

• Who will work with my child day-to-day? What training do they have?
• What is your staff turnover like? How do you maintain consistency?
• How do you communicate with parents? Session notes, parent coaching, meetings?

Setting + scheduling

• Where do sessions happen? Clinic, home, school support, community practice?
• What does a typical session look like? Play-based? Natural environment teaching?
• What’s the plan when my child is sick or dysregulated? Make-ups? Flexibility?

Insurance and logistics

• Do you take our insurance? In-network vs out-of-network?
• Who handles authorizations? What do you need from us?
• What will we owe? Copays, deductible, estimated monthly cost.

Red flags (it’s okay to notice them)

Be cautious if you hear promises of “quick cures,” refusal to explain goals, or plans that feel compliance-focused without respect for the child’s comfort and communication.