ABA Services
Compassionate Autism Therapy Designed to Help Children Thrive
At Paper Lantern Therapies, we provide evidence-based, neurodivergent-affirming ABA services that help children with autism build essential skills in a supportive, child-centered environment. We use proven methods to meet your child’s unique needs, focusing on meaningful progress through compassionate care and joyful learning.
Common Challenges for children that come with an Autism Diagnosis
An autism diagnosis often comes with challenges in communication, social interactions, and navigating everyday routines. These hurdles can impact a child’s ability to connect with others, regulate emotions, and develop independence, creating unique needs for personalized support and care. Here are common indicators or challenges for a child associated with an autism diagnosis.
Communication and Language
Limited spoken language or vocabulary for their age
Difficulty understanding or using gestures, facial expressions, or body language
Trouble initiating or maintaining conversations
Sensory Processing Differences
Over- or under-sensitivity to sensory input, such as sounds, lights, textures, tastes, or smells
Avoiding or seeking out specific sensory experiences (e.g., covering ears, touching everything, or chewing on objects)
Difficulty filtering sensory information, leading to sensory overload
Behavioral and Emotional Regulation
Difficulty during transitions or changes in routine
Intense emotional responses, such as meltdowns when overwhelmed
Trouble identifying and expressing emotions
Difficulty with impulse control or managing frustration
Executive Functioning Skills
Struggles with planning, organizing, and completing tasks
Difficulty with focus, attention, and memory
Challenges with problem-solving or transitioning between activities
Social Interaction
Difficulty engaging in back-and-forth play or conversation
Trouble interpreting others' emotions, tone of voice, or nonverbal cues
Preference for parallel play over cooperative play
Adaptive and Daily Living Skills
Challenges with toilet training, feeding, dressing, or grooming
Selective eating or strong food preferences due to sensory aversions
Difficulty learning routines like bedtime, morning transitions, or school readiness
Limited safety awareness (e.g., running into streets, wandering away)

Building Skills for Everyday Success
We focus on helping children develop critical skills for independence, communication, and emotional well-being.
Communication
Social Skills
Daily Living
School Readiness
Behavior Management
Coping & Self-regulation
Toileting
and More!
Methods we use
Evidence-Based Approaches That Work
We focus on helping children develop critical skills for independence, communication, and emotional well-being.
-
The Early Start Denver Model (ESDM) is a play-based, evidence-based approach designed for young children with autism. It focuses on:
Building social, communication, and cognitive skills
Using natural, child-led interactions to strengthen relationships
Integrating developmental goals into everyday activities
By creating a supportive and engaging environment, ESDM helps children learn through fun, meaningful interactions.
-
Skills-Based Treatment (SBT), developed by Dr. Greg Hanley, is a compassionate and evidence-based method for addressing challenging behaviors. SBT focuses on:
Teaching practical skills like communication, cooperation, and tolerance
Understanding a child’s unique needs and motivations
Creating individualized plans that prioritize safety, positive relationships, and joyful progress
SBT ensures children feel supported while learning skills that lead to long-term success.
-
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) helps children with autism develop emotional resilience and essential coping strategies. Through playful, engaging activities, ACT focuses on:
Teaching children to accept and understand their thoughts and feelings
Encouraging meaningful actions aligned with their values
Building flexibility, self-awareness, and confidence
ACT empowers children to navigate challenges with greater emotional strength and independence.
