Maryland Applied Behavior Analysis Therapist | Move Up ABA

Two boys with autism react to a falling Jenga tower, one celebrating and the other upset.
The short answer is: it’s possible, but it’s not typical. Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a lifelong condition, but with the right support, many individuals experience improvements over time.  In some cases, people with Level 3 autism (the most severe) may show significant progress and move t...
A father and two children play with a toy train set on the floor after in-home ABA therapy session.
For many autistic individuals, trains aren’t just a form of transportation—they’re a source of comfort and fascination. Whether it’s the rhythmic sounds, the predictability, or the mechanical intricacies, trains often provide a unique sense of stability and enjoyment.  But why a...
An autistic toddler pointing at smooth wooden sensory stones in a white sensory bin during ABA therapy session in Maryland.
Autism is typically diagnosed between the ages of 2 and 3, though signs can be observed earlier. Early diagnosis is crucial as it allows for timely interventions that can significantly improve a child’s development. While some children may show early signs of autism as early as 18 months, a formal...
An autistic toddler playing with a wooden number toy and tools on the floor with adults during ABA therapy session in VA.
Identifying the signs of autism in a 4-year-old can help parents seek early intervention, which is crucial for their child’s development. Some common signs of autism at this age include: Social Challenges: Difficulty with making eye contact, limited interest in playing with others, or a lack of un...
Autistic students sitting at desks in a classroom, raising hands to answer a question during school-based ABA therapy in MD.
Yes, a child with autism can attend a regular school, and many do with the right support in place. Inclusion in a typical classroom offers children with autism opportunities to interact with peers, develop social skills, and participate in academic activities. However, children with autism may need ...
Three autistic kids focused on a paper craft activity at an art table during center-based ABA therapy in Maryland.
Yes, autism is more commonly diagnosed today than it was 20 years ago. In 2000, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimated that 1 in 150 children were diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). By 2022, that figure had increased to 1 in 31 children . This rise in prevalence i...
Close-up of an autistic kid's hands touching a colorful autism spectrum wheel chart on a table in Virginia.
Introducing the Autism Wheel The autism spectrum wheel provides a dynamic framework for understanding the diverse traits of Autism Spectrum Disorder. This circular model replaces the traditional linear spectrum by highlighting multiple domains of strengths and challenges that individuals may experie...