ACES ABA - Autism Therapy Center

🎓 What is a BCBA? ✨

A Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) is a skilled professional in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) who uses evidence-based techniques to understand and improve socially significant behaviors. 💡 BCBAs work in various settings, including schools, clinics, and hospitals creating personalized plans that lead to positive, lasting change. 📋✨

BCBA responsibilities include:

➡️Conducting functional assessments
➡️Developing individualized treatment plans
➡️Providing direct therapy services
➡️Collaborating with other professionals
➡️Managing client data
➡️Providing training and supervision
➡️Staying up-to-date on the latest research
➡️Observing patients and assessing their behavior
➡️Meeting with families, teachers, or doctors to discuss treatment and progress
➡️Developing plans to correct, maintain, or improve specific behaviors

BCBAs make a real difference by improving lives through science and compassion, every day. 🌟📊

Discover our tailored schedule for the 8-13 age group at ACES Learning Center! 🌟

Children rotate through engaging stations designed to nurture essential skills while reducing disruptive behaviors. With a 1:1 behavior interventionist in a group setting, we focus on behavior management, communication, socialization, and emotional and adaptive skills.

Each station serves a unique purpose:

🗣 Talk Time: Check in and discuss emotions, daily experiences, and age-appropriate themes. 💬

🎮Experiments/Projects/Games: From Battleship to science experiments—learning has never been so fun!

🏃‍♂️Movement: Stay active with yoga, freeze tag, and more!

Join us and watch your child thrive!
https://www.acesaba.com/our-services/learning-center/

📞(855) 223-7123
📧 [email protected]

Autism is NOT an "epidemic"!

According to the CDC, the increase in autism diagnosis has “largely been interpreted as improvements in more equitable identification of ASD, particularly for children in groups that have less access or face greater barriers in obtaining services." 💡

Here are some factors contributing to the increase:

Professional Training: Healthcare professionals, including pediatricians, psychologists, and educators, are better trained to recognize the signs of autism, leading to more referrals for diagnostic evaluations. 🩺

Expanded Diagnostic Criteria: The diagnostic criteria for autism have expanded and become more inclusive over time. For example, the DSM-5 (published in 2013) merged several related conditions into a single diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorder, capturing a wider range of symptoms and presentations.
Understanding that autism is a spectrum has allowed for the identification of individuals with varying levels of severity, including those with less pronounced symptoms.

Better Diagnostic Tools: The development and refinement of diagnostic tools and assessments have improved the accuracy and reliability of autism diagnoses.

Specialized Clinics: There are more specialized clinics and professionals focused on diagnosing and supporting individuals with autism. Like us at ACES! 🤗

Reduction of Stigma: Increased acceptance and inclusion of individuals with autism have encouraged families to seek diagnoses and support without the fear of stigma. 💙

Public Awareness: Campaigns, media coverage, and advocacy efforts have educated people about the signs and characteristics of autism.

The rise in autism diagnoses is multifactorial, involving better awareness, improved diagnostic practices, expanded criteria, early screening, and a more inclusive understanding of autism as a spectrum. These changes have collectively contributed to more individuals being accurately identified and supported. 🫂

We are here for you!

📞(855) 223-7123
📧 [email protected]
🛜https://www.acesaba.com

From starting as a Behavioral Interventionist (BI) at ACES in 2008 to becoming a Treatment Manager in 2020, Diego has worn many hats and worked in multiple offices across California, including Fresno, Irvine, and Cerritos. Whether leading groups, training new hires, or supervising as a BCBA, Diego's commitment to helping others has been unwavering. ✨

As a Treatment Manager, he serves as the first face-to-face contact point for ACES clients and families. He completes a thorough assessment and writes an individualized treatment plan to work on what matters most to our clients. He works with various ACES departments to ensure everything goes smoothly for families as they start up ABA.

Diego - here's to celebrating your incredible career development and the impact you've made! 🚀 Thank you for all you do for our clients! 💙

We're hiring! Join our award-winning team: https://www.acesaba.com/careers

How cool is our Long Beach Clinic? Check it out with a 360° virtual tour!

Explore 4300 Long Beach Blvd, Suite 100, Long Beach, CA 90807 in 3D Matterport 3D Showcase.

Empowering Caregivers: ABA Workshops at Your Fingertips 💛✨

ACES is dedicated to educating and training caregivers with a collaborative approach. Every month, we offer virtual workshops to provide ACES families with the resources they need to achieve their goals. 🎓

These workshops, designed for caregivers of current ACES clients, enhance your toolkit to optimize ABA services. Topics include:

🛌 Managing sleep and behavior
🤝 Enhancing interactions with your child
🧠 Strategies for teaching your child

Feel less stressed and more confident with ACES! ✨Access our extensive library of ABA webinars and join a community that supports families.

Join us today for resources and support: https://www.acesaba.com/aba-on-demand

📞(855) 223-7123
📧 [email protected]

Aetna and ACES teamed up to create Aetna’s first Institute of Quality for Autism! 🎉

Aetna members have access to top-notch autism care from ACES. This collaboration improves the quality of life for many families, providing consistent, quality care and industry-leading services. 💙

Learn more: https://blog.acesaba.com/news/institute-of-quality-for-autism/

📞(855) 223-7123
📧 [email protected]
🛜 https://www.acesaba.com/

🌟 Celebrating Lauren's incredible journey at ACES! 🌟

Starting in 2014 as a Behavioral Interventionist in Carlsbad, she quickly moved up to New Hire Trainer and Supervisor Intern in 2015. By May 2016, she became a Supervisor; by November 2016, she passed the BCBA exam. Her dedication led her to the role of Clinical Quality Manager of Group Programming in October 2018, where she created
and supported the implementation of peer group curriculum using the principles of ABA.

In 2019, she transitioned to Area Manager in Colorado Springs, and by 2022, she was appointed Clinical Director in Escondido, where she collaborates with others to foster a positive nurturing environment where both team members and clients can thrive. From her beginnings as a Behavioral Interventionist to becoming our Clinical Director, Lauren's journey is a testament to hard work and passion. Congratulations, Lauren! 🚀👏✨

Swipe to see Lauren's impressive career growth at ACES. ➡️

Interested in a fulfilling career? Join our award-winning team: https://www.acesaba.com/team

Did you know we have over 20 downloadable visuals on our website?

At ACES, we believe in using as much visual support for our clients as possible to help them be as independent in their daily activities. Visuals can clarify instructions, expectations, and routines, making it easier to follow along and learn.

Print your visuals here: https://blog.acesaba.com/school-age/visuals/

📞(855) 223-7123
📧 [email protected]

Compassionate, Research-Based ABA Therapy Tailored for You! 💙

ACES values stem from our commitment to delivering research-based therapy that’s enjoyable, respectful, and unique.

Our ACES team is composed of dependable, and compassionate people, and if you or a loved one is impacted by autism or other special needs, we are here for you!

📞(855) 223-7123
📧 [email protected]
💻www.acesaba.com

“If you’ve met one person with autism, you’ve met one person with autism.” -Dr. Stephen Shore 💭

Despite increased awareness, numerous misconceptions about autism still exist, causing confusion, stigma, and obstacles to understanding and acceptance.

Let's create a world that fosters empathy, awareness, and opportunities for growth and inclusion for people with autism. 💛💙

Let's talk about personalized care! 🌟

Every ACES client gets a unique care plan. Our compassionate team is highly trained in creating, developing, and implementing various ABA programs.

With over 400 Board Certified Behavior Analysts, we're one of the most comprehensive national teams. 🌍

Your child’s own Behavior Technician will bring the program to life, sharing fun, engaging, and life-changing activities together. 💙✨

Want to learn more? Contact us today!

📞(855) 223-7123
📧 [email protected]
💻www.acesaba.com

Meet Abby Zern, our Senior Director of Population Health and a member of the Clinic Practice Committee here at ACES! 🌟

Abby has been a dedicated team member at ACES for over 16 years. She started as a BI in 2008, fell in love with ABA, and worked her way up to Senior Director of Population Health. Abby oversees strategies and programs to improve ABA outcomes, focusing on data-driven approaches and collaborating with various departments to enhance our clients' well-being.

Abby, your dedication and hard work have been invaluable to our team. Thank you for your incredible contributions and commitment! 🙌👏

Learn what to look for! 👀

It could be a pediatrician asking probing questions. It could be sensing that your child isn’t keeping up in playgroup. It could be wondering what’s normal when it comes to emotional regulation. If something is leading you to suspect autism, here’s what to look for:

✅By 9 Months: Little or no back-and-forth sharing of sounds, smiles, or facial expressions. Lack of imitated gestures such as waving or pointing.

✅ By 12 Months: Lack of babbling that includes long and short chain sounds like “bababa.” Limited use of gestures such as reaching, showing, pointing, or waving. Little or no response to name. First words are not emerging or not increasing in use.

✅ By 16 Months: Lacks consistent use of single words. Not saying “mama” and “dada” with the intent to gain attention. Does not turn pages of a book or give hugs to stuffed animals. Does not seek help to fix a toy or get an object. Lacks imitation of simple movements such as marking paper with a crayon.

✅ By 24 Months: Very few or no meaningful two-word phrases (not including imitating or repeating). Limited pretend play and reduced interest in other children as compared with peers. Not following simple instructions. Doesn’t comfort others in distress. Doesn’t calm within 15 minutes of a tantrum.

✅ Between 2 and 3 Years: Lacks interest in discovering “why” and “how.” Doesn’t consistently show interest in longer stories. Cannot identify own body parts. Not using three- and four-word phrases to express self. Not comfortable with feeding utensils. Less interest in hugs and giving affection. Higher activity level than peers.

We are here to help. Connect with us to get services today!

📞(855) 223-7123
📧 [email protected]
💻www.acesaba.com

Wishing everyone a star-spangled 4th of July!💙❤️

The 4th of July is a time of celebration, but it can be overwhelming for children with autism due to sensory needs. Here are some tips to help ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for the whole family:

🔊 Noise-Cancelling Headphones: Reduce the booms!
🏠 Safe Space: Have a quiet retreat.
📅 Visual Schedules: Outline the day’s fun.
🗣️ Social Narratives: Explain sensory experiences.
🚨 Safety First: Monitor closely and have a plan.
🎨 Sensory-Friendly Activities: Enjoy water play, crafts, and picnics.
✨ Watch Fireworks from a Distance: Enjoy the show with less noise.

At ACES Learning Center, we get your child ready for school! 💙

We offer 1:1 support for children with autism, using evidence-based, effective, and fun methods. Over 80% of our students demonstrate the skills needed to advance to school. Our structured environment promotes interaction and independent learning through playtime, circle time, and more.

Join us at ACES Learning Center, where your child will learn the building blocks to succeed in a classroom or group setting. 🌟📚

The 4th of July is a time of celebration, but it can be overwhelming for children with autism due to sensory needs. Here are some tips to help ensure a safe and enjoyable experience:

🔊 Noise-Cancelling Headphones: Reduce the booms!
🏠 Safe Space: Have a quiet retreat.
📅 Visual Schedules: Outline the day’s fun.
🗣️ Social Narratives: Explain sensory experiences.
🚨 Safety First: Monitor closely and have a plan.
🎨 Sensory-Friendly Activities: Enjoy water play, crafts, and picnics.
✨ Watch Fireworks from a Distance: Enjoy the show with less noise.

Read more here: https://www.acesaba.com/blog/tips-for-an-autism-friendly-4th-of-july

Comment your favorite 4th of July activities below!

"My journey at ACES has been incredibly rewarding, filled with mentorship and growth opportunities! I began as a Behavioral Interventionist (BI/RBT) and quickly moved my way up to an Outcomes Manager after obtaining my BCBA.

As an Outcomes Manager, I support and provide feedback to the supervisory team, discuss client progress, and conduct performance reviews for clients who've been with ACES for six months or longer. My passion for mentorship continues as I train and support new OMs and lead the regional pods.

I'm proud to be part of such an amazing journey!"

Interested in a fulfilling career? Join our award-winning team: https://www.acesaba.com/careers

Home is where the heart is, so we created ACES at Home. 🏠

Did you know we offer in-home ABA therapy in nine states? Our attentive care team supports our clients’ physical and emotional needs by bringing autism and special needs support and services to you through home-based therapy. We work closely with you and your child to create individualized programming that can help your child learn routines, and new skills and foster independence. 💙

📞(855) 223-7123
📧 [email protected]

🌟 The Power of Early Intervention 🌟

The American Academy of Pediatrics and the CDC recommend early intervention for children with autism by age 5, and at ACES, we couldn't agree more. We've witnessed firsthand the transformative, long-term benefits of our early intervention programs. Early intervention can enhance your child's cognitive and language skills, build social connections, and improve overall quality of life.

ABA therapy, designed for natural settings, capitalizes on your child's interests and motivation, making learning fun and effective. At ACES, we're committed to supporting your child's development during these formative years, providing them with the skills to thrive.

Contact us and ask us about our programs today!💙

📞(855) 223-7123
📧 [email protected]

ACES is not a daycare, we're a Learning Center specializing in early intervention ABA Therapy for children with autism. We help your child build the skills to succeed in school and beyond! 🏫✨

Over 80% of our kids demonstrate the skills necessary to advance to school settings. Everything we do is structured to promote interaction and independent learning through fun rotations like playtime, circle time, snack time, and more. 🍎🎨

Here is what a typical schedule looks like at ACES Learning Center:

🎒8:00-8:20 Arrival
🏃8:20-8:40 Large Motor (jumping, running, etc.)
✍️8:40-9:00 Group Work (modeling preschool/kindergarten activities)
🎭9:00-9:20 Play
🧒9:20-9:40 Turn-taking (following rules in a simple structured activity)
🚽9:40- 10:00 Wash Hands & Toileting
🍴10:00-10:20 Snack
👩‍🏫10:20-10:40 1:1 Work (individualized client programs in a structured setting)
📖10:40-11:00 Circle Time (books, reading, time concepts, imitation, movement, music, and fingerplays)
🎨11:00-11:20 Language Center (creative art stimuli, language practice to request and respond to adults and peers, and small motor practice)
🚽11:20-11:40 Wash Hands & Toileting
🍴11:40-12:00 Lunch
👨‍🏫12:00-12:20 1:1 Work (individualized client programs in a structured setting)
👋12:20-12:40 Clean-up / Departure

Interested to hear more about our Learning Centers? Reach out to us today!

📞(855) 223-7123
📧 [email protected]

Celebrating Juneteenth with gratitude for the journey toward freedom and equality. Let's honor the past, recognize the present, and work towards a brighter future. 💛🧡

Meet Kristin Lundbohm, our Regional Director for CO, UT, WA, NC, and AZ clinics, and a key member of our Clinical Practice Committee(CPC)! 🌟

Kristin is passionate about mentoring and supporting clients, families, and staff, driving clinical excellence and collaboration. 🩷

Curious about ABA Therapy? 💡

Check out our latest blog post to learn how ABA can improve communication, social skills, and more.

Discover why early intervention matters! 🌟

https://blog.acesaba.com/autism/what-is-aba-therapy/

Celebrating love, diversity, and the beauty of being our authentic selves this Pride Month! 🏳️‍🌈

💜💙💚💛🧡❤️

You’re not alone. We’re here for you. 🤗

Our goal is simple: help people with autism and other developmental disabilities fulfill their full potential. We understand that this journey can feel like an insurmountable obstacle, especially at the beginning, especially if you’re a parent. But that’s why we’re here to help: nobody should have to do it alone. ❤️‍🩹

Stephanie is ACES's Senior Director of Research and Innovation and a Clinical Practice Committee (CPC) member.

CPC empowers our most experienced clinicians to drive evidence-based practices and enhance goal achievement and prescription fulfillment within ACES through collaboration with industry leaders.

We asked Stephanie what gets her out of bed every morning and this was her answer: "Increasing the quality of life for a family and helping them achieve their potential." 💙

Celebrating National Smile Day at ACES! 😊

Every day, we’re proud to create joyful moments and spread happiness together. Each smile represents the joy and progress of our amazing ACES kids and tells a story of resilience, growth, and triumph. We LOVE what we do here at ACES! 💙

Saturday, June 8th, from 10AM-Noon in Cedar Park - Join Autism Society of Texas for ACES ABA's Touch a Truck event alongside Cedar Park, TX Police, Fire, and Williamson County EMS Departments at the Veteran's Memorial Park!

This free community event is for families with kiddos of all ages and abilities to interact with first responders, learn about the 'Bring Me Home' program, resource vendors, face painting, balloon animals, and more!

Questions? Contact Ashleigh Alvarez: [email protected]

Seeing a loved one experiencing a meltdown due to sensory overload is difficult. Here are some tips to help support their sensitivities. 💙

At ACES, we utilize ABA therapy to help children on the autism spectrum develop social skills, adaptive skills, academics, and more. We are dedicated to improving the lives of children with autism through one-on-one counseling, school therapy, and community sessions. If you want to learn more about ABA therapy or any of our other services, contact us today!

📞(855) 223-7123
📧 [email protected]

We ❤️ our clients!

Every ACES client gets a fully customized care plan. Our compassionate team has extensive training and experience designing, developing, implementing, and evaluating various ABA programs.

Experience personalized care with ACES! 💙 https://www.acesaba.com/

Happy Memorial Day from all of us at ACES! Today we honor and remember those who made the ultimate sacrifice for our freedom. Let's take a moment to reflect, celebrate, and express gratitude for their bravery. Wishing you a safe and joyful holiday with loved ones. 🇺🇸

Did you know that children with autism are at a higher risk of drowning?

Visuals are a great way to teach your child about pool rules and help them feel more comfortable. Swipe now to see more! ➡️

Let’s make sure every child can enjoy the water and have a great summer! 🏊‍♂️🌊☀️

https://blog.acesaba.com/school-age/visuals/
📞(855) 223-7123

🌻Little Acts, Big Impact: Empowering Children with Self-Care Essentials!

Let's nurture young minds this Mental Health Awareness Month! 🌟 Teaching children self-care isn't just a lesson, it's a lifelong gift. Here are some simple tips to spark joy and cultivate calm in their world. 💖

Happy Earth Day! 🌎 Let's all come together to celebrate and protect our beautiful planet. Plant a tree, clean up a park, or simply appreciate the nature around you. Remember, every small action makes a big difference. Together, we can create positive change for our Earth!

Happy Education and Sharing Day! 🎉 Today we celebrate the importance of learning, growth, and giving back to our community. Let's continue to educate, inspire, and support one another on this special day. Share your knowledge and kindness with others! 💙✨