Why choose our applied behavior analysis services for autism spectrum disorder
At Action Behavior Centers, our autism services help autistic children learn practical life skills, build independence, and reach milestone moments. We proudly provide evidence-based ABA therapy in a compassionate and supportive environment. Learn more about what sets us apart.
Quality attention
Every child is unique, and every case of autism is different. Our BCBAs, who are master’s-level clinicians, work closely with families to set individualized goals that reflect each child’s learning style and personality.
Immediate start, no waitlists
ABA therapy is most effective when it’s started early. You don’t have to wait months to get your child the help they need. We are ready when you are!
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Family support
Parental involvement is essential for your child’s ongoing success. Our Family Guidance sessions deliver the ABA support you need to help your child continue growing at home.
Proven ABA therapy outcomes
ABA therapy is one of the most effective methods for helping children with autism learn and grow. Families who work with us notice significant improvements in their child's communication, social skills, and ability to follow directions.
Have questions about what ABA therapy insurance coverage includes? Wondering which services are covered, whether prior authorization is required, how benefits are verified, or what financial assistance options may be available? Our insurance specialists are here to help!
If you don't see your insurance listed please contact us to verify. We accept over 120+ insurances and add more each day.
Help your child thrive with ABA therapy.
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Frequently asked questions at The Thornton Academy in Denver, Colorado
How does ABC Academy in Thornton support children who are already in school part-time?
ABC Academy was intentionally designed with flexibility in mind. Many children attend part of the school day at their local elementary school and spend the rest of the day at ABC Academy - The Thornton Academy. This allows children to:
- Continue building foundational skills through ABA therapy
- Practice classroom routines in a smaller, supportive setting
- Generalize what they learn in therapy to real-world school situations
Our clinical team partners with families and schools in the Denver area to make sure children get the right balance of ABA therapy and school participation.
What’s the difference between Early Intervention and ABC Academy?
Think of it like building a house:
- Early Intervention: This stage is like laying the foundation and framing. We focus on core skills such as asking for help, making choices, and building communication so children can get their basic needs met.
- ABC Academy: This stage is like decorating the inside and adding the finishing touches. Here, children build on their early skills, expand their language, and practice independence in settings that look and feel like school. The goal is to gradually reduce the level of support children need so they are ready to succeed in a classroom.
What steps do you take to help children get ready for school?
At The Thornton Academy, we have a clear process for helping autistic children prepare for school. This includes using data to track progress, making changes to their ABA therapy schedule, and helping them spend more time in school or group settings as they get closer to transitioning to the classroom.
Learn more about ABA therapy & autism
View all FAQs
Who can diagnose autism?
In the U.S., autism is diagnosed by qualified medical and mental health professionals through a comprehensive evaluation. This process may include direct observation, developmental history, caregiver interviews, and standardized diagnostic tools to determine whether a child meets criteria for autism spectrum disorder. Many children can be evaluated as early as 18 months old.
Professionals who may diagnose autism include:
- Developmental pediatricians
- Child psychologists or neuropsychologists
- Child psychiatrists
- Pediatric neurologists
Board Certified Behavior Analysts® (BCBAs®) may support the evaluation process, but a formal autism diagnosis is typically made by one of the specialists listed above.
What is ABA therapy and how does it work?
Applied behavior analysis therapy is a research-backed method that helps children diagnosed with autism learn new skills and reduce behaviors that may make learning harder. With ABA, children can improve communication, build daily living skills, and better understand their emotions. Our ABA therapists utilize different strategies, like Discrete Trial Teaching (DTT) and Natural Environment Teaching (NET), to support each child’s progress. Therapy is delivered through a compassionate care framework and emphasizes the child’s individual needs and goals.
I think my child is showing signs of autism. Should I wait to get my child evaluated?
Many parents hope their child will catch up naturally, and it’s normal to feel unsure about when to pursue an evaluation. However, waiting too long to seek an autism diagnosis can mean missing valuable opportunities for early support.
Early diagnosis allows children to begin therapies like ABA sooner, which can improve communication, social interaction, and everyday learning. Starting ABA therapy early, ideally between 18 months and 5 years old, can give children the strongest foundation for long-term development.
Will my child be sitting at a table all day during ABA therapy?
No way! At ABC, learning happens through a variety of engaging activities. While table time can be part of learning school readiness skills, children also enjoy:
- Circle Time with therapists and peers
- “Eats and Crafts” spaces for hands-on activities
- Group exercise, sensory rooms, and play-based learning
Therapy is designed to be fun, active, and motivating.
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