If you’re a parent looking for ways to support your child with autism or other developmental needs, you’ve probably heard of something called ABA therapy. But what does that really mean?
Let’s break it down in a simple, easy-to-understand way—because we know you’ve got enough on your plate already!
So, What Is ABA Therapy?
ABA stands for Applied Behavior Analysis. It’s a type of therapy that helps kids learn new skills and improve behaviors by focusing on how they learn and respond to the world around them.
At Verbal Beginnings, ABA therapy is all about meeting your child where they are and helping them grow—step by step. Whether your child is learning to communicate, build friendships, follow routines, or gain independence, ABA can make a big difference.
How Does ABA Therapy Work?
ABA therapy at Verbal Beginnings is always personalized because no two children are exactly alike. That’s the point of starting with understanding and developing a plan for the therapists that will work with a child. Here’s how it works:
- We Get to Know Your Child
A member of our clinical leadership team meets with your family to understand your child’s strengths, challenges, and goals. - We Build a Custom Plan
Our team creates a step-by-step plan tailored to your child—focused on building skills like communication, self-care, or social interaction. - We Make Learning Fun
Sessions feel more like play than work! Our team uses games, toys, and lots of encouragement to teach and motivate your child. - We Track Progress Together
We are all about that data! We collect data at every session to see what’s working and adjust the plan as your child grows and learns. - We Partner With You
You’ll get support and tools to carry those new skills into everyday life, so the progress continues at home too!
What Can ABA Help With?
ABA can help your child with important everyday skills, including those needed to enter a traditional classroom environment. Things like:
- Talking and communicating
- Playing and socializing with others
- Potty training and self-care
- Following routines and directions
- Managing emotions and behaviors
- Trying new foods
- Staying safe
No matter where your child is starting from, ABA therapy at Verbal Beginnings is designed to meet them right where they are and help them move forward.
What is the Format for Therapy?
There are many formats or contexts that can work depending on the intensity of the therapy needed, parent availability, and location. At Verbal Beginnings, we have tried to create the most flexible options possible! That includes:
- Full-Time therapy in one of our 7 centers
- Part-Time therapy in one of our 7 centers
- In-Home therapy across MD, DC, VA, DE, and PA
- Outpatient Feeding Therapy in Columbia, MD
- After school social skills group
- Summer programs focused on social skill building
- Speech and OT as part of our center services as well!
Why Families Choose Verbal Beginnings
At Verbal Beginnings, we believe every child deserves the chance to thrive. That’s why we focus on high-quality, compassionate care that helps kids unlock their full potential. Our team is dedicated, experienced, and excited to celebrate every step of your child’s journey.
