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Green Box ABA, PLLC
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Newletter
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Read the current newsletter below or visit the Newsletter Archive
Parent Newsletter
Volume 8, Issue 4
October 1, 2026
ABA in the News
Attention has recently been drawn to problematic business practices within the ABA industry. As I highlighted in the previous newsletter, specific guardrails exist within the TRICARE system and within Green Box ABA policies and procedures to prevent inappropriate billing. However, a recent series of articles in the New York Times detailed further instances where monetary motives, rather than clinical needs, appeared to drive decision-making.
Within the ABA community, there is a growing concern that these incidents may cause confusion between the therapeutic approach itself and the "ABA industry" or business side of the field. While some individuals may still question the ABA methodology, the existence of unethically or poorly managed businesses does not mean the treatment is inherently inappropriate. Addressing this distinction, the Association for Behavior Analysis International (ABAI) recently published a letter to the editor of the New York Times. You can access their more thorough and eloquent response here.
Navigating Together - Because TRICARE is a Journey
Every couple of years, I devote some space in one of the newsletters to summarizing the many TRICARE requirements, especially related to assessments, that you need to participate in. Below is a quick rundown. You can find more detail about each requirement in your Parent Handbook.
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Outcome testing (Vineland-3 and SRS-2) occurs on a 1-year cycle. You can complete outcome testing through Green Box if you are signed up for our automatic reminder and testing procedure. If you are not, and would like to be, contact tmcrae@greenboxaba.com.
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The Parental Stress Index or Stress Index for Parents of Adolescents is due at every 6-month authorization. This is sent directly to you by the office.
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The Pervasive Developmental Disability Behavior Index (PDDBI) is due at every 6-month authorization. This is sent directly to you by the office.
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Referral for ABA services by a qualified health professional (including developmental pediatricians) is due every two years. This includes the referral and completion of the DSM checklist. The office sends you a reminder, as well as a copy of the checklist, 6 months before the referral is due - because we know how long it can take to get an appointment!!
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Family ABA Training is required at least 6 times per authorization period. Failure to meet that requirement for 2 consecutive 6-month authorization periods will result in non-renewal of services.
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One more important item you will receive before each 6-month authorization is the "6-month Update" form. The “6-month Update” form, sent through DocuSign, is your official (not just “I mentioned it to our BCBA) opportunity to update your child’s health records. Please review the information on each section of the form carefully and indicate any updates/changes in the space provided. TRICARE requires this information to be included in the Treatment Plan. Careful attention to the “6-month Update” form will help the process proceed smoothly and with fewer delays.
Yes, it is a lot. We are here to help you navigate it all with our reminders, guidance, and nudges!
BLOG: Beyond Stickers and Rewards: Cultivating Intrinsic Motivation Through Natural Outcomes
ABA at home doesn't have to look like "What will you give me if I do what you ask." Everyday experiences can reinforce positive behavior more effectively than stickers or prizes. In this blog, we talk about how to use natural outcomes to build motivation that truly lasts.
