An adult and a child are sitting on the floor, engaging with colorful building blocks in a bright, art-decorated classroom.

What is ABA Therapy?

ABA therapy uses evidence-based strategies to help people with autism build communication and social skills—fostering confidence, independence, and growth.

What is ABA Therapy?

Applied behavior analysis (ABA) uses evidence-based strategies to help children and adults with autism and other developmental disabilities build essential life skills. These may include communication, completing everyday tasks, building friendships, and engaging in play. The goal is to support independence and meaningful relationships.

How does ABA work?

ABA breaks big, complex skills into smaller, teachable steps to make learning easier and more fun. Therapists use positive reinforcement to celebrate and encourage progress in ways that are meaningful or joyful for each person, while data is used to track developments. If something isn’t working, the plan is adjusted to help the person succeed.

Why does ABA therapy vary from person to person?

Every person is different, so ABA is designed to reflect each person’s strengths, needs, and goals. Families and therapists work together to decide what skills matter most and how to support growth in those areas.

How has ABA changed?

ABA has come a long way since it began. Today’s ABA is shaped by feedback from autistic individuals, families, and decades of research. It focuses on respect, collaboration and choice, in support of positive, individualized outcomes.

Families now report greater satisfaction and better results. Modern ABA helps individuals gain independence, confidence, and emotional health.

What can ABA help with?

ABA therapy may be a good fit if your child needs help with:

Talking and communicating
Daily routines like getting dressed or brushing teeth
Making friends and playing
Staying safe and focused
Reducing behaviors that interfere with learning or
safety
Becoming more independent at home, school, or
in the community

What should you look for in an ABA provider?

A good ABA provider will:

Listen to your concerns and include you in planning
Welcome your questions and value your family’s
perspective
Use fun, positive ways to teach
Share updates and adjust strategies based on
progress
Support independence and real-world success
Encourage self-advocacy and choice

Voices That Shape Our Values

“The most important thing people did for me was to expose me to new things.” - Temple Grandin

“Interventions need to focus on life skills in a way that respects autistic identity and neurodiversity." - Dr. Nick Walker