Choosing the right therapy for a child with autism is one of the most important decisions any parent will make. Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) has long been recognized as the gold-standard treatment for autism spectrum disorders, backed by decades of research demonstrating its effectiveness in helping children develop essential skills and reach their fullest potential. In Chicago, families can find a variety of ABA services, which include comprehensive support from licensed professionals and guidance on insurance coverage and medically necessary treatment.
However, many parents today hear conflicting information about ABA therapy. Some praise its proven results, while others express concerns about outdated approaches that may have felt rigid or overwhelming for children. The reality is that ABA has evolved significantly over the years, and modern practitioners have developed more compassionate, child-centered methods that prioritize respect and collaboration. These advances are grounded in evidence-based practices, ensuring that interventions are supported by scientific research and validated methods.
At North Shore Pediatric Therapy, we practice assent-based ABA—a progressive approach that ensures every child has a voice in their therapy experience. This method combines the proven effectiveness of traditional ABA with a deep commitment to honoring each child’s autonomy, comfort, and individual needs. Our board certified behavior analysts oversee therapy to ensure the highest standards of care and expertise. Our assent-based approach creates a foundation of trust and safety, allowing children to engage more meaningfully in their therapy while building confidence and self-advocacy skills. The principles of ABA, such as individualization, ethical practice, and social significance, guide our interventions to ensure effective and responsible support for every child.
ABA therapy can benefit a wide range of individuals, but it is especially important for autistic children, as therapy can be tailored to their unique strengths and challenges. Early intervention is crucial for optimal outcomes, helping children acquire skills and make developmental progress as soon as possible.
Access to ABA therapy in Chicago is essential, and we are committed to making our services available to all families, ensuring equitable opportunities for support and participation.
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What Does "Assent-Based" Mean?
Understanding the concept of “assent” is crucial for parents considering ABA therapy for their child. Assent refers to a child’s agreement to participate in therapy, even when they cannot provide formal consent due to their age or developmental stage. Assent is considered for children of all ages and developmental stages, and it is important to recognize that ABA techniques are appropriate for people of all ages. Unlike consent, which is given by parents or guardians, assent focuses on the child’s willingness and comfort with the therapeutic process.
Assent-based ABA recognizes that children—regardless of their verbal abilities—can communicate their preferences, boundaries, and comfort levels through various means. This might include verbal responses, body language, facial expressions, or behavioral cues. The key principle is that therapy should feel like a partnership rather than something being done to a child.
Think of it this way: when you ask your child if they want to play a game, you naturally look for signs of enthusiasm or reluctance. Assent-based ABA applies this same sensitivity to therapeutic interactions. Therapists continuously monitor how a child is responding and adjust their approach accordingly, ensuring that each session remains a positive and collaborative experience. The behavior analyst plays a critical role in ensuring ethical practice by supervising and guiding the team in respecting the child's assent. Monitoring a child's response also involves recognizing assent withdrawal—when a child indicates, through words or behavior, that they no longer wish to participate. Withdrawing assent is respected in therapy, and procedures are in place to pause or modify activities when a child withdraws their agreement. For example, a child might show assent by smiling, nodding, or eagerly participating, while examples of assent withdrawal could include turning away, saying "no," or displaying distress. These examples help clarify how assent and assent withdrawal might look in practice.
This approach acknowledges that children are active participants in their own learning and development. By honoring their assent, we empower them to develop self-advocacy skills while building trust in the therapeutic relationship, both essential foundations for meaningful progress. Collaboration with teachers is also important in defining and recognizing assent and assent withdrawal behaviors, ensuring consistency and clear communication across different environments.
How Assent-Based ABA Looks in Practice
Assent-based ABA transforms the traditional therapy experience into something more natural and engaging for children. Our Board Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBAs), Registered Behavior Technicians (RBTs), and behavioral therapists are key team members who work directly with children, implementing therapy plans and supporting skill development under supervision. All are trained to read both verbal and non-verbal communication cues, creating sessions that feel more like guided play than formal instruction.
During therapy sessions, clinicians pay close attention to a child’s body language, facial expressions, and behavioral responses. If a child appears uncomfortable, overwhelmed, or disinterested, therapists immediately adjust their approach rather than continuing with a predetermined plan. This flexibility ensures that each child remains an active, willing participant in their learning journey. The data collected during these sessions informs ongoing adjustments, ensuring that interventions are responsive to the child's needs. Data helps therapists evaluate progress and refine their approach for better outcomes.
Our play-based approach makes therapy naturally engaging. Functional communication training is a core component, helping children learn to express their needs and choices effectively. Children might work on communication skills while playing their favorite games, practice social interactions during creative activities, or develop motor skills through movement-based play. Sessions are intentionally designed to build skills in communication, social interaction, and independence. There is a focus on individualized learning and participation, ensuring that each activity is meaningful and relevant to the child. The key is that these activities are chosen collaboratively, with the child’s interests and preferences guiding the session structure. Play and activities also target social interaction and social skills, supporting the development of relationships and meaningful engagement.
Choice and collaboration are central to every interaction. Children might select which toys to use, choose between different activities, or indicate when they need a break. This level of autonomy helps children feel empowered and respected while still working toward their therapeutic goals. These choices are aligned with individualized treatment goals, ensuring that every decision supports progress in key developmental areas.
When a child shows signs of resistance or discomfort, our therapists view this as valuable communication rather than non-compliance. They respond by offering alternatives, adjusting the environment, or taking a break—whatever the child needs to feel safe and ready to engage again. Therapists teach essential skills using systematic teaching strategies, breaking down complex tasks into manageable steps and providing guidance at each stage. This approach supports the child's development, improves daily living skills, and helps children achieve greater independence.
The Importance of Informed Consent in ABA
Informed consent is a foundational element of applied behavior analysis (ABA) therapy, ensuring that families and individuals with autism are fully aware of what to expect from their treatment. Before beginning any ABA therapy services, therapists take the time to clearly explain the goals, methods, and potential outcomes of the therapy, including how positive reinforcement, discrete trial training, and other ABA procedures will be used. This process is not just a legal requirement—it’s a vital way to respect the autonomy and dignity of every child and family.
Informed consent means that parents, guardians, or relevant stakeholders are given all the information they need to make thoughtful decisions about their child’s care. ABA therapists encourage questions and provide honest, understandable answers, so families feel confident in their choices. Importantly, children and their families are reminded that they have the right to withdraw assent or stop therapy at any time if they feel uncomfortable or unsure. This ongoing dialogue helps ensure that everyone involved understands the therapy process and feels empowered to participate in care decisions.
By prioritizing informed consent, ABA therapy builds trust and transparency, creating a partnership where families and therapists work together to support the child’s development in a way that feels safe, respectful, and effective.
The Importance of Autonomy in ABA
Autonomy is at the heart of compassionate ABA therapy. It means recognizing and honoring each individual’s right to make choices about their own care, no matter their age or ability. ABA therapists strive to create an environment where children with autism can express their preferences, set personal goals, and participate actively in their therapy journey.
Supporting autonomy involves more than just offering choices during therapy sessions—it’s about listening to the child’s voice, respecting their boundaries, and encouraging self-advocacy and self-care. ABA therapists work closely with children to help them understand that their feelings and opinions matter. If a child wishes to withdraw assent or refuses a particular activity, therapists respect that decision and look for alternative ways to support learning and growth.
By fostering autonomy, ABA therapy helps children build confidence, motivation, and a sense of control over their own lives. This approach not only supports skill development but also nurtures self-esteem and well-being, empowering children to become active participants in their own success.
Building a Strong Therapeutic Relationship in ABA
A strong therapeutic relationship is the cornerstone of effective ABA therapy. When children and families feel safe, understood, and supported, meaningful progress becomes possible. ABA therapists are dedicated to creating a welcoming, non-judgmental environment where open communication and trust can flourish.
To build this relationship, therapists take the time to learn about each child’s developmental abilities, cultural background, and unique life experiences. They listen carefully to both the child and their family, adapting therapy to fit individual needs and preferences. This personalized approach helps children feel valued and understood, making it easier for them to engage in therapy and try new things.
A positive therapeutic relationship also encourages families to share their insights, concerns, and hopes for their child’s future. By working together, therapists and families create a supportive environment that empowers children to reach their full potential, both in therapy and in everyday life.
Collaborating with Families in ABA
Family collaboration is a vital part of successful ABA therapy. ABA therapists recognize that parents and caregivers are experts on their own children, and their involvement is key to supporting lasting growth and development. By working closely with families, therapists can better understand each child’s strengths, challenges, and daily routines.
This partnership involves regular communication, education, and hands-on training for families, so they feel confident reinforcing new skills and behaviors at home. Therapists provide practical strategies and support, helping families integrate therapy goals into daily life and play. This consistency helps children generalize what they learn in therapy to other settings, making progress more meaningful and lasting.
Collaboration also ensures that safety concerns are addressed, with therapists and families working together to plan for emergencies or challenging situations. By building a strong team around the child, ABA therapy creates a network of support that helps every child—and their family—thrive.
Why Assent-Based ABA Matters for Children and Families
The benefits of assent-based ABA extend far beyond the therapy session itself, creating positive impacts that ripple through every aspect of a child’s life and family experience.
Building trust forms the foundation of effective therapy. When children feel heard, respected, and safe with their therapists, they develop stronger therapeutic relationships that enhance their willingness to engage and learn. This trust creates an environment where children can take risks, try new things, and push themselves to grow—all essential elements of meaningful progress.
Assent-based approaches actively support the development of confidence and independence. When children experience having their voices heard and their choices respected, they learn that their opinions matter. Children with disabilities should have the same rights as other children, including the ability to express their views and participate actively in decisions that affect them. This builds self-esteem and encourages them to advocate for themselves in other settings, including home, school, and community environments.
The alignment between a child’s natural motivation and therapeutic goals leads to more authentic and lasting progress. Children learn more effectively when they are genuinely engaged and interested in activities. By following their lead while skillfully incorporating learning opportunities, therapists can achieve better outcomes in less time. It is important to recognize each child as a unique person with their own needs, preferences, and rights.
Therapists seek to uphold each child's autonomy and rights by empowering them to participate in decisions and respecting their perspectives throughout the therapeutic process.
Families also experience significant benefits from assent-based approaches. Parents often report reduced stress and anxiety when they see their children happy and engaged in therapy. This positive experience helps families maintain consistency with therapeutic recommendations and creates a more harmonious home environment.
Measuring Progress in ABA
Tracking progress is a key part of ABA therapy, ensuring that each child’s unique needs are being met and that therapy is truly making a difference. ABA therapists use a variety of data collection methods—such as counting behaviors, timing activities, and using rating scales—to monitor how children are developing new skills and reaching their goals.
This careful data collection allows therapists to see what’s working well and where adjustments might be needed. By regularly reviewing progress, therapists can tailor the therapy plan to better support each child’s growth, making sure that every session is as effective as possible. Families are kept informed about their child’s achievements and areas for further development, creating a sense of shared accomplishment and direction.
A data-driven approach not only demonstrates the effectiveness of ABA therapy but also ensures that children receive high-quality, evidence-based support. By measuring progress, therapists and families can celebrate successes together and stay focused on helping each child reach their fullest potential.
North Shore Pediatric Therapy's Commitment to Assent-Based ABA
At North Shore Pediatric Therapy, our mission centers on helping each child blossom and reach their full potential in a safe, supportive, and nurturing environment. This philosophy guides every aspect of our assent-based ABA program across our multiple locations throughout the Chicago area, including Evanston, Elmhurst, Woodridge, Arlington Heights, Bucktown, Deerfield, Des Plaines, Glenview, Lake Bluff, Lincolnwood, Naperville, and Vernon Hills.
Our team recognizes that every child is unique, with their own personality, interests, strengths, and challenges. We respect each child's individuality and work collaboratively with families to develop personalized treatment plans that honor both therapeutic goals and the child's natural development.
All of our BCBAs and RBTs receive specialized training in compassionate, assent-based care. This training goes beyond traditional ABA techniques to include trauma-informed practices, neurodiversity-affirming approaches, and cultural sensitivity. Our clinicians learn to create therapeutic relationships built on mutual respect and understanding.
Partnership with families remains central to our approach. We believe that parents are the experts on their own children, and we value their insights, concerns, and goals. Regular communication ensures that therapy remains aligned with family values and priorities while addressing each child's specific needs.
Our comprehensive services extend beyond ABA therapy to include speech and feeding therapy, occupational therapy, physical therapy, mental health services, and neuropsychology. This integrated approach allows us to address the whole child, ensuring that all aspects of their development receive appropriate support.
How Parents Can Recognize Assent-Based ABA in Action
Parents considering ABA therapy can look for specific indicators that demonstrate whether a provider truly practices assent-based care. These signs help families make informed decisions about their child's therapeutic experience.
Observe your child's demeanor during and after therapy sessions. Children engaged in assent-based ABA typically appear happy, relaxed, and eager to participate. They may smile frequently, initiate interactions with their therapist, and show excitement about upcoming sessions. While some days may naturally be more challenging than others, the overall pattern should reflect positive engagement.
Pay attention to how therapists respond when your child expresses preferences or resistance. Quality assent-based practitioners will immediately acknowledge these communications and adjust accordingly. They might offer choices, suggest breaks, or modify activities rather than insisting on continued participation in something that causes distress.
Notice whether your child's progress feels authentic and meaningful. Assent-based therapy often produces skills that generalize naturally to other settings because they develop through genuine engagement rather than rote practice. Children may begin using new communication skills at home spontaneously or demonstrate improved social interactions with siblings and friends.
Ask potential providers direct questions about their approach to assent and autonomy. Quality programs will have clear policies and procedures for honoring children's communication about their comfort levels. Staff should be able to explain how they monitor for assent and what steps they take when children indicate discomfort or unwillingness to participate.
Finding the Right Path Forward
ABA therapy has evolved into a respectful, child-centered approach that can be both effective and joyful. Assent-based methods demonstrate that children can make meaningful progress while feeling heard, respected, and empowered throughout their therapeutic journey.
Families seeking compassionate autism therapy no longer need to choose between effectiveness and respect for their child's autonomy. Modern assent-based ABA provides a path that honors both therapeutic goals and children's individual needs and preferences.
If you're looking for ABA therapy in Chicago that truly values your child's voice and experience, we invite you to learn more about North Shore Pediatric Therapy's assent-based approach. Our experienced team is ready to partner with your family in creating a therapeutic experience that helps your child thrive while feeling safe, respected, and valued every step of the way.
Contact us today to discover how assent-based ABA can support your child's unique journey toward reaching their fullest potential.
