Supporting Children and Families Through Evidence-Based Autism Therapy
Finding the right support after an autism diagnosis can feel overwhelming. Families often want therapy that is effective, compassionate, and close to home. At North Shore Pediatric Therapy, we provide ABA therapy services for autism in Glenview, IL, helping children build meaningful skills while supporting the whole family along the way. Our therapists and care team are highly trained and dedicated to children's growth and well-being.
Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) is a research-backed therapy that supports children with autism in developing communication, social, behavioral, and daily living skills—always guided by the child’s unique strengths and needs. We offer individualized care and personalized care, tailoring each program to your child’s specific needs and progress. ABA therapy helps your child grow in confidence, independence, and everyday skills. Our therapy is designed to support growth in all areas of development. We use a multidisciplinary team approach, collaborating with specialists such as speech therapists, occupational therapists, and other professionals to provide comprehensive care. We also ensure a supportive environment where children and families feel encouraged and nurtured throughout their journey.
Families are encouraged to consult their child's doctor as part of the autism evaluation and diagnosis process.
What Is ABA Therapy?
Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy is an evidence-based approach commonly used to support autistic children. ABA focuses on understanding how behavior works and using positive reinforcement to help children learn new skills and reduce behaviors that interfere with learning or daily life.
ABA therapy work is based on personalized, data-driven interventions that teach essential skills and manage challenging behaviors. ABA therapy is grounded in the science of how people learn and change behavior over time.
ABA therapy for autism may support skills such as:
- Communication and language
- Social interaction and play
- Following routines and directions
- Emotional regulation
- Independence in daily activities
At NSPT, ABA therapy is individualized and goal-driven, ensuring each child’s therapy plan reflects their developmental needs and family priorities.
What is Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a complex neurological and developmental condition that affects how individuals communicate, interact socially, and behave. Because ASD is a spectrum, each person experiences it differently—some may have significant challenges with language and social interaction, while others may have milder symptoms or unique strengths. Common characteristics include difficulties with verbal and nonverbal communication, challenges in forming relationships, and engaging in repetitive behaviors or routines.
Applied behavior analysis (ABA) is a leading, evidence-based therapy for autism spectrum disorder. Through behavior analysis ABA therapy, children with autism can develop essential skills for daily life, improve social interaction, and make meaningful progress in areas that matter most to them and their families. ABA therapy is tailored to each child, helping them thrive in therapy and beyond.
How ABA Therapy Helps Autistic Children
ABA therapy supports children across many areas of development, including those with developmental delays as well as autism. No two kids are the same, so each therapy plan is tailored to the child's unique goals, strengths, and personality. ABA therapy is designed to help children grow in all areas of daily life. Therapy goals are broken down into manageable steps and taught in ways that feel motivating and achievable for each child.
Improving Communication Skills
ABA therapy often works alongside speech therapy to support language development, including:
- Requesting wants and needs
- Expanding verbal language or alternative communication
- Understanding and responding to others
- Reducing frustration related to communication challenges
ABA therapy also supports learning by helping children acquire essential communication and language skills.
Building Social and Play Skills
Through structured and naturalistic teaching, ABA therapy helps children:
- Engage in shared play
- Take turns and follow social rules
- Initiate interactions with peers
- Develop joint attention and engagement
- Participate in group learning opportunities that promote socialization and prepare them for classroom environments
ABA therapy also helps children engage and interact with other children during play and group activities.
These skills are critical for success in school and community settings.
Supporting Behavior and Emotional Regulation
ABA therapy helps identify the “why” behind behaviors and teaches appropriate alternatives. This may include:
- Reducing tantrums or aggression
- Teaching coping and self-regulation strategies
- Increasing flexibility with transitions and routines
- Supporting attention and task completion
- Developing self-care skills, such as managing daily routines and fostering independence in practical tasks
Encouraging Independence
ABA therapy services for autism often focus on real-life skills, such as:
- Dressing, feeding, and toileting
- Following daily routines
- Participating in school or group activities
- Building confidence and independence
- Developing everyday skills, including communication, social interaction, and self-care, to help children function more effectively in daily life
- Supporting school readiness by preparing children for transitions into classroom environments through the development of therapeutic, social, and functional skills
ABA Therapy Services in Glenview, IL
Families seeking ABA therapy in Glenview, IL often want a provider who understands both clinical best practices and the importance of family collaboration. North Shore Pediatric Therapy offers ABA therapy services in Glenview as part of a comprehensive, interdisciplinary pediatric therapy model.
Our ABA therapists work closely with:
- Parents and caregivers
- Speech-language pathologists
- Occupational therapists
- Physical therapists
- Schools and educators
This multidisciplinary team approach ensures that children benefit from the combined expertise of ABA, occupational therapy, and physical therapy, supporting developmental progress, sensory integration, and adaptive skills. This collaborative approach ensures skills learned in therapy carry over into everyday life.
Program Structure of ABA Therapy
The structure of ABA therapy is designed to provide individualized, goal-oriented support for each child. The process begins with a thorough assessment by a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA), who works to understand the child’s strengths, needs, and family priorities. Based on this assessment, a personalized treatment plan is created, targeting specific goals such as language and communication skills, social skills, and daily living skills.
Registered Behavior Technicians (RBTs), under the supervision of the BCBA, deliver therapy sessions using positive reinforcement to encourage new skills and behaviors. ABA therapy can take place in a variety of settings, including center based ABA therapy, in-home sessions, or a blend of both, depending on what best supports the child’s learning. This flexible, evidence-based approach ensures that therapy is both effective and responsive to each child’s unique needs, helping them build confidence and independence in daily living.
Natural Environment Teaching (NET) and Pivotal Response Training (PRT)
Natural Environment Teaching (NET) and Pivotal Response Training (PRT) are two powerful, evidence-based strategies used within ABA therapy to support skill development for children with autism. NET focuses on teaching important skills in the child’s everyday settings—like home, school, or the community—so that learning is meaningful and easily carried over into daily life.
Pivotal Response Training (PRT) targets key areas such as motivation and self-management, helping children become more engaged and responsive learners. By focusing on pivotal skills, PRT encourages broad improvements across many areas of development. Both NET and PRT are designed to make therapy engaging and relevant, supporting children as they learn to interact with their environment and develop new abilities that enhance their quality of life.
Parent and Caregiver Support
At the heart of effective ABA therapy is strong support for parents and caregivers. Therapists work closely with families, providing training and resources to help them understand and use ABA techniques at home. This partnership empowers families to reinforce new skills, manage challenging behaviors, and celebrate meaningful progress together.
Support may include individualized coaching, parent workshops, and access to support groups, all designed to help families feel confident and connected throughout their child’s therapy journey. By supporting families and caregivers, ABA therapy extends its impact beyond the therapy center, creating lasting change and helping children reach their fullest potential.
Why Families Choose North Shore Pediatric Therapy in Glenview
At NSPT, we believe therapy should support the whole child—not just target isolated skills. Our ABA therapy services in Glenview are built on trust, consistency, and meaningful relationships. NSPT is a wonderful place where children and families receive nurturing, effective support in a positive environment, helping each child make meaningful progress.
Families choose NSPT because we offer:
- Board Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBAs) and trained ABA therapists
- Individualized, child-centered treatment plans
- Family involvement and caregiver training
- Data-driven, evidence-based therapy
- A warm, welcoming environment for children and families
We are committed to providing therapy for autism that respects neurodiversity while helping children reach their fullest potential.
Insurance Coverage for ABA Therapy
Navigating insurance coverage for ABA therapy can feel complex, but many insurance providers in the Chicago area—including those serving Lincoln Park and surrounding communities—offer coverage for ABA therapy services for children with autism. It’s important to check with your insurance provider to understand your specific benefits, including whether your plan is in network with your chosen ABA therapy center.
Many centers have dedicated staff to help families understand their coverage, manage paperwork, and advocate for the services their child needs. Whether you’re just starting ABA therapy or looking to transition to a new provider, having support with insurance can make accessing high-quality autism services easier and more affordable for your family.
When Should a Child Start ABA Therapy?
ABA therapy can benefit children at many ages, from toddlers through school-aged children. In addition, ABA therapy can also benefit older children, such as those in upper elementary and middle school, with therapy plans tailored to their developmental stage. Early intervention is especially impactful, but it’s never too late to begin services. Therapy goals and intensity are always tailored to the child’s developmental stage and family needs.
If you have concerns about your child’s development or have recently received an autism diagnosis, connecting with an ABA provider can be an important next step.
Get Started with ABA Therapy in Glenview, IL
If you’re looking for ABA therapy services in Glenview or nearby communities, North Shore Pediatric Therapy is here to help. Our team will guide you through the process, answer your questions, and help determine the best path forward for your child.
📍 ABA Therapy for Autism in Glenview, IL
📞 Contact North Shore Pediatric Therapy to learn more about our ABA services and how we support children and families throughout the Chicagoland area.
