ABA Therapy in New Jersey

Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) is a scientific, evidence-based approach to understanding and improving behavior. ABA therapy focuses on teaching essential skills, reducing challenging behaviors, and creating meaningful, lasting change in individuals’ lives. This therapy is effective for people of all ages and can be implemented in various settings, including schools, homes, and communities, to support independence and growth.

What's the best therapy for autism?

ABA (Applied Behavior Analysis) is the only scientifically validated treatment for individuals on the autism spectrum. It uses evidence-based techniques to increase positive, socially significant behaviors and decrease undesirable behaviors, helping individuals develop skills for a better quality of life.

“The goal of ABA is two-fold: to increase useful behaviors that improve quality of life and decrease those that are harmful or interfere with learning or relationships. It is a structured teaching approach that can be implemented in many settings to teach skills from many domains (communication, self-care, academic, play/leisure, social skills, etc.). It involves understanding patterns of behavior and examining the influence of environmental factors including what happens before and after the behavior”

Who’s involved in ABA therapy?

ABA therapy is provided by a team of trained professionals:

  • Board Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBAs): These are highly trained experts who design and oversee therapy plans, as well as supervise other team members.
  • Board Certified Assistant Behavior Analysts (BCaBAs): These professionals work under the supervision of a BCBA to assist in implementing therapy plans.
  • Registered Behavior Technicians (RBTs): RBTs are paraprofessionals who carry out the direct implementation of therapy under the supervision of a BCBA or BCaBA.

At Graham Behavior Services, our behavior therapists typically have a minimum of a bachelor’s degree and one year of ABA experience, and many are certified teachers, social workers, or graduate students studying behavior analysis.

What ages do you service?

We provide ABA therapy for individuals of all ages, starting as early as 12 months through adulthood. Early intervention is especially impactful, as research shows that children who receive intensive therapy before age 5 often make significant developmental gains. ABA therapy can even influence brain development and improve social, communication, and behavioral skills.

While early intervention is critical, ABA remains highly effective for individuals over age 5, including teens and adults. Consistency in therapy is essential for success—just like physical therapy after an injury, regular sessions are needed to achieve lasting progress.

Where does therapy occur? What skills are taught?

ABA therapy takes place in various settings to best support your child’s needs. Therapy is most commonly provided in the home, school, and community, ensuring skills are learned and applied in real-life situations. Depending on the goals, sessions may involve structured table work, play-based learning, or outings to practice skills in different environments. Some skills may start in one setting before being generalized to others.

ABA therapy focuses on developing essential skills tailored to your child’s needs. These may include:

  • Communication & Social Skills – Improving interactions and expressive language
  • Self-Care & Daily Living – Toileting, dressing, feeding, and sleep routines
  • Academic & Play Skills – Learning, problem-solving, and structured activities
  • Job & Independence Skills – Preparing for work and daily responsibilities
  • Behavior Management – Reducing challenging behaviors and increasing tolerance

How much does autism therapy cost? Why is it so expensive?

The cost of ABA therapy can vary based on your insurance and how many hours of therapy are needed. Many children with autism benefit from 25–40 hours of therapy per week, which can add up.

Fortunately, New Jersey law requires most health insurance plans to cover ABA therapy for autism. Insurance usually covers most of the cost, but families may still need to pay some out-of-pocket costs like deductibles, co-pays, or co-insurance.

At Graham Behavior Services, we’ll help you understand your insurance benefits and clearly explain any costs before starting therapy. 

We accept DDD and Medicaid, as well as most major insurances.

Have questions? Fill out our contact form, and we’ll get back to you within one business day.

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