Our Approach

What ABA Looks Like With Us

We Start With Connection

Before we ever ask a child to learn a new skill, we focus on building a strong, trusting relationship. When children feel safe and understood, learning comes naturally.

Play-Based and Natural

Sessions are fun and engaging! We use:

• Play
• Games
• Daily routines
• Child-led activities

Skills are taught in real-life situations so children can actually use them at home, school, and in the community.

Skills That Matter in Real Life

We don’t focus on “compliance.” Instead, we teach skills that help children:

• Communicate their wants and needs
• Handle frustration and big emotions
• Build independence
• Feel confident and successful
• Participate more fully in family life

Every goal is chosen based on what is most meaningful for your child and your family.

Understanding Challenging Behavior

We view challenging behavior as communication, not something “bad” or intentional. When a child struggles, it’s usually because they don’t yet have the skills to express their needs, tolerate challenges, or manage big feelings.

Our job is to teach those skills—not to punish or suppress behavior.

Highly Trained Therapists You Can Trust

All of our therapists are specifically trained and credentialed in PFA and Skills-Based Treatment. Our team is supervised by experienced BCBAs who ensure therapy is ethical, effective, and individualized for each child.

We Partner With Families

Parents and caregivers are a vital part of progress. We collaborate closely with you, offering:

• Coaching and guidance
• Ongoing communication
• Support you can actually use in daily life

You are never expected to “do therapy at home,” but we make sure skills naturally carry over into everyday moments.

 PFA & SBT: Parent FAQ

 What is PFA (Practical Functional Assessment)?

PFA helps us understand why a child is engaging in challenging behavior. Instead of focusing on stopping behavior, we look at what the child is trying to communicate and what skills they may be missing.

This allows us to create a plan that meets your child’s needs in a safe, respectful way.

 What is SBT (Skills-Based Treatment)?

SBT is how we teach important skills once we understand your child’s needs. These skills include:

• Communicating wants and needs
• Waiting and tolerating frustration
• Flexibility and transitions
• Emotional regulation
• Cooperation and independence

Skills are taught slowly, positively, and at your child’s pace.

 Is this still ABA?

Yes. PFA and SBT are evidence-based ABA approaches supported by research. They are modern, ethical, and compassionate models of ABA therapy.

 Will my child be forced to do things they don’t want to do?

No. We do not use forced compliance or punishment-based strategies. Children are taught skills through choice, encouragement, and reinforcement, not pressure.

 What if my child has severe or aggressive behaviors?

PFA and SBT are especially helpful for children with big emotions and intense behaviors. The focus is on safety, emotional regulation, and teaching communication skills that replace unsafe behaviors over time.

 How long does it take to see progress?

Every child is different. Many families notice improvements in communication, emotional regulation, and overall happiness early on. Long-term progress happens through consistency, collaboration, and trust.

 How are parents involved?

Parents are partners in the process. We provide guidance and support so strategies feel doable and natural, not overwhelming or clinical.

 Why do you use this approach?

Because children learn best when they feel:

• Safe
• Respected
• Supported
• Empowered

And families deserve therapy that improves daily life—not adds stress.