Hello Bloom Besties! Welcome back to Bloom Diaries. Today, we’re opening up a respectful and honest conversation about a topic that is deeply personal for many: ABA Therapy (Applied Behavior Analysis). ABA has a complicated history – one that includes both life-changing impact for some families and painful harm for others. In this post, we’ll explore the past, present, and progress of ABA therapy, honoring every perspective along the way.

The Reality of ABA

ABA therapy has been around for decades, and with that comes a wide range of experiences.

• Some families found ABA to be transformative and supportive, helping their children build meaningful skills and independence.

• Others experienced harm and trauma, often due to outdated methods that prioritized compliance over well-being.

Both experiences are real. Both are valid. And both deserve acknowledgment.

Acknowledging Historical Harm

It’s important to recognize the harm caused by some early ABA practices:

• Suppressing natural stimming behaviors

• Using punishment and compliance-based methods

• Prioritizing conformity over communication and autonomy

Much of this came from a desire to “normalize” autistic individuals rather than honor their authentic selves. Autistic voices were often ignored, and individuality was replaced with compliance.

We see and validate those who experienced this pain. No one should dismiss or minimize these truths.

My Experience as a BCBA

As a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA), I’ve witnessed firsthand the life-changing impact ABA can have when practiced ethically and with compassion. I’ve seen individuals and families experience moments they thought might never come – like a parent hearing their child say their name for the first time, or the words “I love you.” I’ve seen children learn skills that will support independence and greatly improve their quality of life for years to come.

But I’ve also seen the other side. I do not agree with certain approaches used in therapy and I know there are still, to this day, poor-quality therapy standards and ABA clinics that need to do much better.

At the same time, I want to acknowledge and celebrate the BCBAs and ABA companies who are working tirelessly to raise the bar – those practicing neuro-affirming, client-led services and prioritizing dignity, autonomy, and joy. Progress is happening, and I believe in supporting the professionals and organizations that are truly striving for a higher standard of care.

How ABA Has Evolved

Thankfully, the field of ABA has grown and changed. Modern, ethical ABA looks very different from its past.

• No punishment or compliance-focused goals

• Respect for stimming and self-regulation

• Individualized goals that prioritize autonomy

• Play-based, compassionate, and child-led approaches

• Consent and choices woven into therapy

ABA continues to evolve as practitioners learn from past mistakes and listen more closely to autistic voices.

What Quality ABA Includes Today

High-quality ABA therapy is rooted in dignity, respect, and collaboration. It focuses on building a meaningful life – not conformity.

• Collaboration with families and integration with speech, OT, and other supports

• Strength-based, individualized approaches

• Celebrating neurodivergent identity while building practical skills

• Prioritizing self-advocacy, independence, and quality of life

The best practitioners today are focused on helping children and families thrive without compromising identity.

Holding Space for All Experiences

It’s possible for multiple truths to coexist:

• ABA has helped many families flourish.

• Past practices have caused very real trauma.

• The field still has room to grow.

The path forward requires humility, listening, and improvement – centered on autistic voices and lived experiences.

Moving Forward Together

This isn’t about defending or attacking ABA. It’s about:

• Honoring lived experiences – good and bad

• Supporting ethical, evidence-based practices

• Choosing compassion over judgment

• Continuing to evolve, guided by autistic voices

Whether you support ABA, reject it, or feel conflicted – your perspective matters.

~Grace 🌸