Maryland Applied Behavior Analysis Therapist | Move Up ABA
About Move Up ABA therapy
The story behind the support
How Move Up ABA became more than just another therapy company.
Move Up ABA was founded on a simple realization: families need more than clinically excellent therapy. They need it delivered of implementing strategies in actual family life.
Our Clinical Director, Tamar Varnai, spent nearly two decades building expertise at nationally recognized ABA companies. But it was her personal experience as a parent that transformed how she thought about service delivery.
She recognized that the most effective therapy happens when clinical expertise meets genuine empathy for the family experience.
Clinical director: Tamar Varnai, MA, BCBA, LBA
20 years of experience
Tamar holds a Master’s degree in Applied Behavior Analysis from Columbia University and an undergraduate degree from Indiana University. Before joining Move Up ABA, she held senior leadership positions at several nationally acclaimed ABA companies across Maryland, Washington DC, and Virginia.
Beyond credentials
Her innovative treatment approaches have impacted hundreds of children and families, but Tamar’s real expertise comes from understanding both sides of the therapy relationship. She’s been the clinician developing treatment plans and the parent implementing them during real-world challenges.
Building something different
At Move Up ABA, Tamar has created a company culture that prioritizes both clinical rigor and authentic connection. Her team combines evidence-based practices with the understanding that every family’s situation is unique and deserves individualized attention.
Our philosophy
Our philosophy is simple: families deserve ABA therapy shaped not just by credentials, but by empathy born from real experience. Only then can support feel genuine, practical, and life-changing. Because when you’ve walked this road yourself, you know it’s never just therapy, it’s about helping families breathe easier, celebrate small victories, and believe again in what’s possible.
The Move Up ABA difference
At Move Up ABA, what sets us apart isn’t just what we do, it’s how we do it. Our approach is guided by values that shape every session, every plan, and every conversation with families.
Compassion first
Every family’s journey is unique. We listen without judgment and meet you where you are, offering ABA therapy that feels supportive, not overwhelming.
Family partnership
Parents are the most important part of the team. Your insights and priorities guide our treatment plans, because lasting progress happens when therapy and family life work hand in hand.
Practical, real-world progress
Skills learned in therapy should make everyday life easier—whether it’s homework time, family dinners, or outings in the community. We design interventions that transfer into daily routines where they matter most.
Clear and accessible communication
You shouldn’t need a clinical degree to understand your child’s treatment plan. We explain our methods in straightforward language and provide regular updates so you always know what’s happening.
Responsive support
Questions and concerns can’t wait. When families reach out, they get prompt responses from a team who understands the urgency behind every call, text, or email.
Clinical excellence
Our Board Certified Behavior Analysts and Registered Behavior Technicians use evidence-based practices backed by decades of research—always tailored to your child’s unique learning style and needs.
Move Up’s service model
In-home therapy focus
We bring services directly to families because children often learn most effectively in familiar environments. This approach also allows us to work on skills in the contexts where they'll actually be used.
Flexible scheduling
Therapy sessions are scheduled around family routines and commitments. We adapt to your schedule, not the reverse.
Insurance navigation
Our team handles insurance verification, authorization, and billing processes. We work with most major providers and Medicaid to make services accessible.
Family training integration
Parents and caregivers receive ongoing training and support to reinforce therapy goals throughout daily routines and activities.
About your BCBA®
Board Certified Behavior Analysts® hold Master’s degrees and pass an exam required by the Behavior Analysis Certification Board. They conduct assessments, design customized client care plans, and supervise RBT®s.
About your RBT®
Registered Behavior Therapists are paraprofessionals who help your child improve critical skills in one-on-one sessions. Their work is guided by the treatment plan and closely supervised by a BCBA®.
Changing lives in Maryland and Virginia
Close to home, wherever you are
Autism doesn’t differ between zip codes, and neither do we. Whether you’re in a busy city or a quiet town, our team is coming to you, bringing you the expert care that will change everything.
Why families trust Move Up ABA
Nothing tells a story better than the families we’ve worked with
Frequently asked questions
ABA therapy FAQs for Maryland and Virginia parents
Does insurance cover ABA therapy?
Yes. Most insurance plans, including Medicaid, cover ABA therapy after an autism diagnosis. We handle all the paperwork so you can focus on your family.
How long does ABA therapy take to show progress?
Every child learns differently. Many families notice growth within a few months. Our goal isn’t to “fix” anyone, it’s to support your child’s development, confidence, and well-being.
Do you really come to our home?
Absolutely. We believe the best learning happens where your child is most comfortable—at home and in the community.
What makes Move Up ABA different?
We’re clinically strong and family-centered. Our leadership has lived experience as autism parents, so empathy and ethics guide everything we do. We focus on quality of service, realistic family balance, and individualized care—not just hours on a schedule.
What ages do you serve?
We support children and young adults ages 1–21, meeting each stage with strategies that respect their age, autonomy, and individuality.
How do I know if ABA therapy is right for my family?
Our intake specialist will walk you through the process and explain how ABA therapy works. Together, we’ll determine whether our approach aligns with your family’s needs and goals.
Who can I talk to about getting started?
Our team is here to help you every step of the way. You can call us directly or fill out our contact form to be connected with our intake specialist, who will guide you through the next steps.
Begin your journey with move Up ABA
We get it - because we’re more than therapists
Many of us are parents too, who’ve faced the same questions and worries you have now. We’ve been in your shoes, and we know what it takes to help a child truly thrive. We can’t wait to help yours.