Compassionate ABA is a way of supporting behavior change through kindness, respect, and understanding. It’s based on the principles of traditional ABA (Applied Behavior Analysis), but with a stronger focus on building trust, listening to the person’s needs, and ensuring they feel safe and supported.

Instead of just asking “How do we change this behavior?”, we ask:

• Why is this person doing this?

• What are they trying to communicate or cope with?

• How can we help in a way that honors their feelings and dignity?

 Our ABA program is comprehensive and autonomy-focused. This means:

• Clients help choose their own goals.

• No one is ever forced to participate in a target or activity.

• We build learning plans that fit each client’s unique needs and preferences.

We believe progress happens best when clients feel respected, safe, and in control of their own learning.

We use various assessments, including the Vineland-3, Assessment for Functional Living (AFLS), and PEAK. This gives us valuable insight into current skills and daily living abilities. We use this information — together with your input — to select meaningful, realistic goals.

Yes! Clients always have the choice to say “no” to a goal or activity. Autonomy is central to our approach, and we find that giving clients control builds motivation and trust.

We focus on a wide range of skills, including communication, self-advocacy, daily living skills, social interaction, time management, executive functioning, coping strategies, and any skill needed to live an independent and fulfilling life. Every program is individualized to help clients gain the skills to live as independently as possible.

 We specialize in working with teens and adults. Our programs are individualized to match each person’s developmental stage and goals.

 It depends on the client’s needs and personal/family goals. Some stay for a few months to target specific skills, while others participate for several years to build broader life skills and independence.

 Frequency is determined during the intake process and depends on needs, availability, and your schedule. We offer both part-time and full-time schedules.

Yes, if that is wanted. We believe family participation is essential. Parents can be included in goal planning, progress updates, and training when appropriate, so you can support your child’s skills at home and in the community.

While we currently do not work with severe injurious behaviors, we approach challenging behaviors with understanding, not punishment. We work to understand the reason behind the behavior and teach safer, more effective ways to communicate or cope.

Sometimes — but we use them thoughtfully. Rewards are always respectful and never used to force participation. We focus more on natural motivation, choice, and making activities enjoyable.

We use data collection to track skill growth, but we also look at how you feel about the learning process. True progress is when skills transfer into everyday life and your  is happier and more confident.

Treatment hours are based on your assessment and what is best for you and your family. We do not have a set minimum hours required.