Celebrating Our 2025 Graduates This Back-to-School Season

As families across Texas prepare for another back-to-school season, we’re also celebrating one of our favorite traditions at Action Behavior Centers (ABC)—graduations!

For many families of children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), graduating from applied behavior analysis (ABA) therapy marks both the end of treatment and the beginning of new school journeys in general education classrooms.

We caught up with a few families who recently celebrated their child’s graduation and exited ABC services. Their stories remind us why we are so passionate about helping children and families reach their milestone moments.

Yessica’s story: finding a supportive community

In Houston, Yessica reflected on her son’s progress since starting therapy at ABC-Tomball. Today, he attends a mainstream kindergarten classroom at a private school, where he has friends, joins group activities, and even sang Christmas songs with his school choir.

At home, he has become “the most caring, loving little boy” and a devoted big brother to his baby sister.

“We came to ABC lost and searching for a way to help our son thrive,” Yessica said. “What we found was so much more—support, answers, and a community. I will forever be grateful to the teammates at ABC-Tomball for helping bring our little family back together.”

Theo’s journey: thriving in kindergarten

For Theo, age 5, from Princeton, Texas, the transition from ABC to kindergarten has been remarkable.

His mom, Ashley, called his graduation day unforgettable:

“His ABC team surrounded him with love, celebration, and encouragement, even giving him an astronaut outfit and building his name out of Legos. As his mom, I’ve never felt so much support for one of my children. That day marked not just an ending, but a new beginning, and today Theo is thriving in Kindergarten—making friends, sharing stories from school, and already being considered for the Gifted & Talented program. Without ABC, we may never have truly known the incredible person Theo is, and that’s a priceless gift.”

Noah’s story: discovering confidence & curiosity

In Austin, Noah’s graduation was marked by hugs, cheers, and even visits from his former therapists. His mother, Lora, reflected on the dedication of his BCBA, Lindsey Allen, who supported the family throughout his transition to kindergarten.

“That commitment has stayed with us long after graduation,” she said.

Now six years old, Noah is a curious, talkative child who loves animals, dinosaurs, and the solar system. He’s making friends, excelling in school, and was recently recognized with a Hardworking Historian award. 

“The care and belief ABC had in him gave us hope,” Lora added, “and helped Noah discover his bright future.”

Callum’s transformation: celebrating courage & new skills

For Callum, also from Austin, two years at ABC brought growth and transformation. “Callum tackled challenges with courage, mastered new skills, and learned how to connect with peers,” his dad, Blythe, shared.

His July graduation was both joyful and emotional, marking the moment he officially tested out of services and entered a general education classroom.

Today, Callum is thriving—earning star student of the day, singing in school concerts, and playing on his first soccer team. “He’s embraced new experiences with joy and blends in seamlessly with his peers,” Blythe said. “None of this would have been possible without the support and belief he found at ABC.”

The outcomes research that makes it possible

As we celebrate these August graduations and look forward to a new school year, we’re also proud to mark the one-year anniversary of the Action Institute for Outcomes Research (AIoR).

Under the leadership of Dr. Linda LeBlanc, Executive Director of AIoR, the institute is advancing behavioral early intervention through cutting-edge treatment outcomes research. 

Alongside Dr. Charna Mintz, Chief Clinical Officer, and Dr. Gregory Hanley, who is the Executive Director of Compassionate Care at ABC, we remain committed to helping every child embrace their unique abilities, grow in their strengths, and reach milestone moments.

✨ Congratulations to all of our 2025 graduates and their families—we can’t wait to see what the future holds for each of you! ✨ 

Want to learn more about ABA therapy for autism?

Action Behavior Centers offers diagnostic support, center tours, and ABA therapy tailored to each child’s unique needs. We are ready to answer your questions and help your family take the next step with confidence. Contact us today to learn how we can support you.

* All testimonials were solicited by exited ABC families and no children shown are affiliated with ABC services