What is ABA Therapy? | Guidepost ABA
Understanding ABA Therapy

What is ABA
Therapy?

A warm, evidence-based program that helps children with autism build meaningful life skills — one small step at a time.

Get Started Today →

ABA therapy, explained simply

ABA stands for Applied Behavior Analysis — a research-backed therapy that uses the science of learning to help children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) build practical, everyday skills.

At Guidepost ABA, our Board Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBAs) design a fully individualized plan for each child. Our skilled therapists then work one-on-one using positive reinforcement, structured teaching, and natural play — so every session moves your child closer to their goals.

"ABA is not about changing who your child is — it's about giving them more tools to communicate, connect, and thrive in the world around them."


How does ABA therapy help?

ABA helps children develop meaningful skills across every area of life, while also reducing behaviors that get in the way of learning and safety.

🗣️

Communication

Verbal and nonverbal skills — speaking, gesturing, eye contact, and understanding others.

🤝

Social skills

Turn-taking, starting conversations, peer play, and forming lasting relationships.

🎒

School readiness

Imitation, matching, categorization, and following directions for classroom success.

🧼

Self-care

Daily routines like handwashing, dressing, and potty training for independence at home.

😌

Behavior support

Replacing unsafe behaviors with safer, more effective ways to express needs.

🏠

Family confidence

Parents learn strategies to reinforce skills at home, not just in the therapy room.

Two teaching methods we use

Our BCBAs and therapists blend two core ABA methods — both backed by decades of research — to match how your child learns best.

Structured 📚

Discrete Trial Teaching

Skills are broken into small, manageable steps. Each trial involves a prompt, your child's response, and positive reinforcement. Great for introducing new skills step by step.

Play-based 🎮

Natural Environment Teaching

Learning happens through play and activities your child already enjoys. Therapists create teaching moments in real-life situations — so skills generalize beyond the therapy setting.

Real, practical goals

Every child's goals are personalized and developed together with your family. Here are examples of real goals your child might work toward:


What does a day at Guidepost look like?

Every day is warm, structured, and full of progress. Here's what your child's day looks like with us:

1

Warm drop-off

Your child is welcomed by their therapist. We take time to make sure every child feels safe and settled before the day begins.

2

Individualized sessions

Your child works toward their personal goals through structured activities, games, movement, and play.

3

Data-driven progress tracking

Therapists collect data every session. Your child's BCBA reviews this and adjusts the plan as your child grows.

4

Team-based learning

Kids rotate between therapists so skills generalize to different people, places, and situations — not just the therapy room.

5

Parent updates throughout the day

We send photos and progress updates so you always know what your child is doing and achieving in real time.

6

Pick-up & family guidance

At day's end, your child's BCBA shares highlights and practical strategies to reinforce learning at home.

Backed by decades of research

ABA is the most studied, most endorsed therapy for autism — recognized by the US Surgeon General and the American Psychological Association as an evidence-based practice.

📖 40+
years of peer-reviewed research
💳 90%
of insurance plans cover ABA
🧑‍🏫 1:1
therapist to child ratio

Common questions from parents

Is ABA therapy only for young children?
ABA therapy is most effective when started early, but children of all ages can benefit. Guidepost ABA works with children from 18 months through school age, tailoring every program to each child's current level and needs.
Will my child just sit at a table all day?
Not at all. While structured table work supports school readiness, most learning at Guidepost ABA happens through movement, play, and exploration. Our goal is to make every session engaging and motivating for your child.
Is ABA therapy covered by insurance?
Yes — ABA therapy is covered by most private health insurance plans in the US. Our admissions team will verify your benefits, explain your out-of-pocket costs, and handle all the paperwork so you can focus on your child.
How are parents involved in ABA therapy?
Families are a critical part of the team. Every child's program includes regular Family Guidance sessions with their BCBA — where we set home goals, share evidence-based strategies, and make sure progress carries over into daily life.
How do I know if ABA is right for my child?
If your child has been diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), ABA is widely recommended as a first-line treatment. Our team will conduct a full assessment to understand your child's unique strengths and needs before starting any therapy.