Pediatric Behavior Therapy
PEDIATRIC BEHAVIOR THERAPY
What is Pediatric Behavior Therapy?
PBT uses reinforcement learning to teach children to change maladaptive behaviors. These are behaviors that threaten the safety of the child or others, and may prevent them from participating in activities at home or in the community.
From the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention:
“Behavior therapy teaches children and their families how to strengthen positive child behaviors and eliminate or reduce unwanted or problem behaviors.
One type is parent training in behavior management. The therapist works with parents to learn or improve skills to manage their child’s behavior. Parents are encouraged to practice the skills with their child, either during the therapy session or at home. Teachers can also be trained in behavior management to help the child at their childcare center or school.
With older children or adolescents, the therapist usually works directly with the child to teach them how to choose positive behaviors. Parents can be involved to support and strengthen the skills their child is learning.”
Colorado Medicaid covers Pediatric Behavior Therapy for children aged 20 and younger. We provide these services at no cost to you!
Click here to learn more about Pediatric Behavior Therapy through Colorado Medicaid.
Does your child meet one of these qualifications?
Colorado Medicaid requires the presence of one or more of the following for an individual age 20 and younger:
The client has been diagnosed with a condition for which behavioral therapy services are recognized as therapeutically appropriate (i.e. evidence-based or evidence-informed), including autism spectrum disorder.
The client cannot adequately participate in home, school, or community activities because behavior or skill deficit interferes with these activities. The client must have a standardized assessment of maladaptive behaviors to show their abilities to function in these activities.
The client presents a safety risk to self or others. Examples include self-injury, aggression towards others, and destruction of property, stereotyped or repetitive behaviors, or elopement.
How to enroll in Colorado Medicaid:
Even if you do not typically qualify, your child may be able to receive Pediatric Behavior Therapy.
Click here to enroll in Colorado Medicaid.
Click here for more information about qualifications. Your child may still qualify if you are outside of these criteria!