Lesson 1

Session 1: Foundations of ABA Documentation

Topic: The Role of Session Notes, Assessments & Treatment Plans in Quality Care and Billing

• Key Concepts:

  • How documentation drives client progress, staff accountability, and clinic sustainability.

  • Connection between accurate notes, individualized treatment plans, and insurance reimbursement.

  • Ethical and legal implications of poor documentation (e.g., audit risks, service denials).

• Activities:

  • Case Study Analysis: Compare poorly vs. well-documented cases and their impact on care/billing.

  • Group Discussion: “How documentation standards protect clients and clinics.”

• Materials:

  • Excerpts from The Essential First Step (Chapter 1: “Why Documentation Matters”).

  • Sample billing forms and audit checklists.