A small boy practicing social skills with the guidance of a therapist

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.

Children interacting with toys in a child-led therapy environment
  • 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.

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Why Choose Us?

At Paper Lantern Therapies, we combine proven methods with a child-led, play-based approach that puts your child’s needs first.