What Is the First Line of Therapy for Autism?

October 17, 2025

The first line of therapy for autism is Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), a proven, evidence-based approach that helps children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) build communication, social, and daily living skills. ABA therapy focuses on understanding why behaviors occur and using positive reinforcement to encourage meaningful progress.

Through structured, play-based learning, ABA helps children improve focus, reduce challenging behaviors, and develop independence. Each therapy plan is customized to meet a child’s unique needs, ensuring that progress feels natural and rewarding.


When started early, ABA can make a significant difference in long-term outcomes, but it’s also beneficial for older children and teens.


Parents play a key role, too. When families reinforce ABA strategies at home, children learn faster and maintain their skills more effectively across different environments.


At Divine Steps ABA, we provide compassionate, personalized ABA therapy in Maryland, Virginia, and North Carolina to help children reach their fullest potential, one skill at a time.

Ready to begin your child’s journey toward growth and confidence? Contact us today!



SOURCES


https://ceufast.com/blog/autism-spectrum-disorder-a-guide-for-parents?gad_source=1&gad_campaignid=21079871925&gbraid=0AAAAAD_vKCWE3OVxlRV2b4qbkAmrJCISY&gclid=CjwKCAjwr8LHBhBKEiwAy47uUgM1tToyTpeMOUoD5Ffrf1Z6q8ysYAbiXdSUtp6Hr03xFkdezMdjlhoCBWYQAvD_BwE


https://www.cdc.gov/autism/signs-symptoms/index.html#:~:text=Autism%20spectrum%20disorder%20(ASD)%20is,%2C%20moving%2C%20or%20paying%20attention.


https://www.psychiatry.org/patients-families/autism/what-is-autism-spectrum-disorder


https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/articles/autism


https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Autism


Looking for Guidance?

We're Here for You!

Our dedicated professionals are committed to helping your child thrive. Connect with us to learn how our ABA therapy can make a difference.


Get In Touch With Our ABA Experts Today

Contact Us
The autistic gentleman sitting by the water holding his head in distress after this ABA therapy.
October 17, 2025
Learn why autism isn’t something to “recover” from, and explore supportive approaches that focus on strengths, growth, and neurodiversity in Maryland. URL Permalink: /can-autism-be-fully-recovered
Female ABA therapist on bed with laptop, headphones on, taking notes and planning tasks in Maryland.
October 17, 2025
Learn respectful, effective ways to support individuals with autism. Discover essential do’s and don’ts for parents, educators, and caregivers in Maryland.
ABA therapist by wall, holding glasses, looking stressed and deep in thought about next steps.
October 17, 2025
Explore effective alternatives to ABA therapy for autism, including speech, occupational, & play-based interventions that support skill growth and independence.
Show More