Frequently asked questions
Getting started
Your first steps with Animate
How do I get started? +
Submit our short Request for Services form or call us at (510) 500-5124. A clinician reviews the needs of the person seeking services; then we discuss service fit and guide you through authorization and the BCBA assessment.
What happens after I reach out? +
Our client services team replies within one business day, and a clinician reviews every request.
Do I need a diagnosis or referral before reaching out? +
Not to start a conversation. Many funders do require an autism diagnosis to authorize ABA services, and some require a referral, but you don't need to have everything in hand before you contact us. Reach out and we'll walk you through exactly what your plan needs.
What happens during the first assessment? +
A Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) gets to know the person receiving care and their support team to understand strengths, interests, and goals. Your BCBA builds an individualized plan and reviews it with you before sessions begin.
Insurance & coverage
Funding, plans, and what it costs
What insurance do you accept? +
We're in-network with Kaiser Permanente and Contra Costa Health Plan (CCHP), and we work with the Regional Center of the East Bay (RCEB).
What if I have a different insurance plan? +
We may still be able to help through a single-case agreement, which lets us work with plans we aren't normally in-network with. Just ask. Fill out our Request for Services form and we'll help you find out what's possible.
How does Regional Center of the East Bay (RCEB) funding work? +
Regional Center funding depends on eligibility and authorization. If you already work with RCEB, tell us your service coordinator and we'll help coordinate next steps. If you're unsure whether you qualify, we can point you in the right direction.
Will I have out-of-pocket costs? +
It depends on your specific plan and benefits. Once we verify your coverage, we'll walk you through exactly what to expect before services begin, no surprises.
How do I check if I'm covered? +
Fill out our Request for Services form with your insurance details and our team will verify your benefits and let you know. Not sure where to start? Call us at (510) 500-5124.
Our clinical approach
How we practice ABA at Animate
What is ABA therapy? +
At Animate, ABA programs are built around each person's interests, assent, and goals, with BCBA leadership from day one. Teaching connects meaningful skills with everyday activities and the priorities of the person receiving care.
Who leads the care? +
A Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) designs and oversees each program from day one. Small caseloads help the analyst know the person receiving care, their goals, and their support team.
Do you use a set curriculum? +
No. Each program is built from scratch by a BCBA, reviewed with the person receiving care and their support team, and revised as needs and priorities change.
How are parents and caregivers involved? +
Caregivers and chosen support people review goals with the BCBA and learn strategies that connect sessions with everyday life. We adapt support to the person's preferences and the routines, culture, and priorities of their household.
What does “assent-based” care mean? +
We look for the person's willing participation and follow how they communicate their interests, choices, and need for a break. Teaching uses meaningful activities suited to their age and goals, with changes when an approach isn't working.
Sessions & settings
Where, when, and in what language
Do you offer in-home or in-center therapy? +
Both. Our Albany Early Learner Center is designed for young children. In-home care supports children, teens, and young adults across the East Bay. Your BCBA helps choose an appropriate setting based on individual needs, goals, authorization, and availability.
Where is your center located? +
Our Early Learner Center is at 979 San Pablo Ave, Albany, CA 94706, serving families across the East Bay. We also provide in-home services throughout the region.
Can we change settings later? +
Yes. An appropriate setting may change as goals and support needs change. Your BCBA can discuss adjustments with you, subject to authorization and availability.
Do you only work with young children? +
No. We support ages 2–25, from early learners through teens and young adults. For older learners, goals may include communication, self-advocacy, independence, daily living, and community skills, typically practiced at home. Reach out to discuss support for you or someone in your care.
Do you offer services in Spanish? +
Yes. Our clinicians reflect the communities we serve, and we deliver care in both English and Spanish. Visita nuestra página en español para más información.
Careers at Animate
For aspiring & current RBTs
Do I need experience to become an RBT here? +
Our current Behavior Technician and RBT openings ask for previous ABA experience, with a year preferred. Openings change, so if you’re newer to the field, check our open roles or reach out anyway. Every role comes with real BCBA mentorship and a team that supports you as you grow.
What's it like to work at Animate? +
Our RBTs deliver the day-to-day teaching and are often the first to spot a breakthrough. Because we stay small, technicians get real mentorship, close BCBA supervision, and manageable caseloads rather than a slot on a corporate roster.
How do I apply? +
Visit our Careers page to see open roles and apply. We respond to candidates personally. If there's a fit, you'll hear from a real member of our team.
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Still have a question?
Our client services team replies within one business day, and a clinician reviews every request. We’re happy to help you figure out coverage and next steps.