What Is ABA Therapy? A Quick Overview

Stephanie Rosales • September 10, 2025

If your child has been diagnosed with autism or is showing signs of developmental delays, you may have heard about Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy. But what exactly is ABA therapy, and how can it help your child thrive?

At CV Lighthouse, we understand that starting this journey comes with many questions. This guide breaks down the essentials of ABA therapy in a way that’s clear, supportive, and practical for parents.


What Is ABA Therapy?


Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) is a therapy that helps children build important life skills through positive reinforcement. Instead of focusing on what a child can’t do, ABA highlights strengths and creates small, achievable steps toward progress.


ABA therapy is based on decades of research and is considered the gold standard for autism treatment. It is used to improve skills in areas such as:

  • Communication (using words, pictures, or devices)

  • Social interaction (making friends, sharing, taking turns)

  • Daily living (eating, dressing, brushing teeth)

  • Emotional regulation (managing frustration, calming strategies)


How Does ABA Therapy Work?


Every ABA program is individualized. At CV Lighthouse, we begin with a detailed assessment to understand your child’s strengths and challenges. Then, our team designs a treatment plan with clear, measurable goals.

Therapy may include:

  • One-on-one sessions: Focused skill-building with a trained therapist.

  • Natural environment teaching: Practicing skills during play, meals, or routines.

  • Parent training: Helping families learn strategies to support progress at home.


Benefits of ABA Therapy


Research shows that ABA therapy can help children:

  • Improve communication and reduce frustration.

  • Learn independence with daily routines.

  • Build positive social connections.

  • Reduce behaviors that get in the way of learning or relationships.

Every child’s progress looks different, but consistent ABA therapy provides the structure and encouragement many families are looking for.


Who Can Benefit from ABA Therapy?


ABA therapy is most often used for children with autism, but it can also help children with other developmental delays or behavioral challenges. Whether your child is a toddler learning first words or a teenager building independence, ABA can be tailored to their needs.


What Makes CV Lighthouse Different?


Choosing an ABA provider is an important decision. At CV Lighthouse, we:

  • Create customized therapy plans.

  • Partner closely with parents and caregivers.

  • Focus on meaningful skills that improve daily life.

  • Offer services in [City/Region], making support accessible to local families.


Getting Started


If you’re wondering whether ABA therapy is right for your child, the first step is an assessment. Our team will guide you through insurance options, answer your questions, and develop a plan that fits your family’s goals.



👉 Schedule a consultation with CV Lighthouse today to learn how ABA therapy can support your child’s growth.


RBT in Palm Springs providing ABA therapy.
By Stephanie Rosales August 10, 2025
Help your child adapt to change with proven ABA therapy techniques. Learn strategies like visual schedules, social stories, and positive reinforcement.
By Stephanie Rosales July 9, 2025
Understanding and reducing aggressive behavior in children with autism is possible with Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA). Learn how ABA's evidence-based strategies, from functional behavior assessment to teaching replacement behaviors, can help your child and family.
By Stephanie Rosales July 9, 2025
Discover why parent involvement in ABA therapy is critical for your child’s success. Learn how families can actively support autism treatment and long-term progress.
By Stephanie Rosales May 12, 2025
The body content of your post goes here. To edit this text, click on it and delete this default text and start typing your own or paste your own from a different source.
Discover how play-based ABA therapy transforms learning for children with ASD. CV Lighthouse uses fu
By Stephanie Rosales May 5, 2025
Discover how play-based ABA therapy transforms learning for children with ASD. CV Lighthouse uses fun, engaging activities to develop essential life skills. Contact us for a consultation!
By Christine Kent March 23, 2025
Learn how to recognize the early signs of autism and when to begin ABA therapy. CV Lighthouse offers center based ABA therapy in Riverside, San Bernardino, and Imperial County.
aba therapy riverside ca
By Christine Kent February 20, 2025
Discover how ABA therapy and routines create consistency for lasting success. Learn more with CV Lighthouse—serving San Bernardino, Riverside & Imperial County!
By Christine Kent January 22, 2025
Learn how to advocate for ABA therapy services in schools, ensuring your child gets the support they need to thrive in their education.
By Christine Kent December 17, 2024
Discover key ABA therapy milestones with CV Lighthouse, providing expert care and support at locations across California. Progress starts here!
By Christine Kent November 1, 2024
Learn how ABA therapy strengthens sibling bonds in autism families, fostering understanding, connection, and positive relationships.