Maryland Applied Behavior Analysis Therapist | Move Up ABA

A group of four teenagers walking together outdoors.
Teenagers want independence, but for those with autism, that desire can feel out of reach. Fortunately, ABA therapy provides practical, real-world tools to bridge that gap—without overwhelming them. One teen I worked with had trouble managing a simple routine. Through task analysis and a token eco...
A group of three teenagers laughing and having fun in front of a pink wall.
Adolescents with autism face a unique mix of challenges—and ABA therapy is uniquely equipped to help. Through targeted interventions, teens gain the tools to succeed at home, school, and beyond. One young man I supported had a tough time transitioning between classes and was often overwhelmed by n...
Autistic girl with pigtails smiling and painting at a chalkboard.
We hear it all the time: “Is my child too old for ABA therapy?” The honest answer? Age matters, but it’s not everything. I’ve worked with a 10-year-old who struggled with peer interactions and classroom transitions. In less than six months, he was confidently raising his hand, using calming ...
ABA therapist showing globe to group of curious children with autism in front of a world map.
Understanding Rigid ABA Therapy Evolution of ABA Therapy ABA therapy, or Applied Behavior Analysis, has come a long way since the 1960s. Back then, Dr. O. Ivaar Lovaas introduced Discrete Trial Training (DTT), a method that mixed rewards and punishments to curb harmful behaviors in residential setti...
ABA therapist and autistic child pointing at letters at an illustrated alphabet learning book in MD.
Understanding Rigid ABA Therapy Overview of Rigid ABA Techniques Rigid ABA therapy is like a one-size-fits-all sweater—great for some, but itchy and uncomfortable for others. It’s a structured approach used to help folks with autism, but sometimes it feels like trying to fit a square peg int...
ABA therapist helping autistic girl with her work at a modern library classroom setting in Maryland.
Understanding Rigid ABA Impact of Rigid Thinking Rigid thinking is like a stubborn mule for many folks on the autism spectrum, making it tough for them to roll with the punches in everyday life. This mental inflexibility can throw a wrench in their ability to handle changes and new situations, crank...
ABA therapist guiding red-haired autistic boy on a desktop computer at a study room in Maryland.
Understanding ABA Therapy Evolution of ABA Techniques ABA therapy has come a long way from its early days. Back then, it was all about strict routines and getting folks to follow the rules. But now, it’s more about kindness and making sure each person gets what they need. Today’s ABA the...
An ABA therapist assisting two students with their writing tasks at a classroom table in Maryland.
Understanding Rigid ABA Definition of Rigid ABA Rigid Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy is like following a recipe to the letter, without any room for improvisation. It’s all about sticking to the rules, no matter what. This approach is as flexible as a brick wall, focusing on consistenc...