Anonymous wrote:We're in DC and just started ABA therapy for our 1st grader through The SPARKS Group (https://www.sparksaba.com/). I believe they also serve Montgomery County. They're based in Landover. It took about 4-5 months from when we got our initial referral to actually starting therapy.It's just started so I can't really say how effective it is. So far, it feels like having a nanny that insurance pays for. I am aware of some of the history of ABA and what autistic adults say about it, so I came into it with some of your same concerns, but it seems very play-based and non-punitive thus far.

Thank you, that's great to hear - I have also read what autistic adults have had to say about ABA and I'm glad to hear it sounds different now. - OP

We're in DC and just started ABA therapy for our 1st grader through The SPARKS Group (https://www.sparksaba.com/). I believe they also serve Montgomery County. They're based in Landover. It took about 4-5 months from when we got our initial referral to actually starting therapy.It's just started so I can't really say how effective it is. So far, it feels like having a nanny that insurance pays for. I am aware of some of the history of ABA and what autistic adults say about it, so I came into it with some of your same concerns, but it seems very play-based and non-punitive thus far.

I don’t know much about ABA providers in your area. However, it is important to realize that ABA has evolved from back in the day. It should not be all discreet trials or rigid. It should be mostly inchild’s natural environment.

My sister has received ABA services through the county

Anyone?

A search on ABA in Montgomery County yielded posts a year or more old, so I'm starting a new post in the hopes of getting some more current opinions. I have a first grader with autism and we are looking into ABA. I'd love to hear who people have worked with and had a good result - or places to potentially avoid as well. We are in the Rockville area but willing to travel if needed.

As a side question, this is the first therapy I've been hesitant to try, because I've read multiple pieces quoting adults with autism who have negative views of ABA. If you've gone this route for your child, are you glad you did?

Thank you.