When a child is first diagnosed with autism, one of the biggest questions parents face is: Where do we start? From speech and occupational therapy to play-based interventions and ABA, this guide explains how evidence-based therapies work together to support communication, behavior, and daily living skills for children in Schaumburg and the Northwest Suburbs.
Understanding Autism Treatments in Schaumburg and the Northwest Suburbs
When a child is first diagnosed with autism — or when parents begin noticing early signs — one of the first questions that comes up is:
“What kinds of therapies are available, and where do we start?”
Families across Schaumburg, Arlington Heights, Palatine, and Elk Grove Village often begin by exploring different forms of support. Each therapy serves a unique purpose, and many families use a combination of them to help their child thrive.
At Adaptive Steps ABA Therapy, the team helps families understand how various therapies can work together — and where Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) plays a central role in creating lasting progress.
During a recent conversation, Clinical Director Matt Soloway, BCBA, described how ABA connects with other interventions: parents often hear about speech, occupational, or play therapy, but aren’t always sure how ABA fits into the larger picture. In practice, ABA complements these services by reinforcing learned skills and promoting consistency across environments.
Common Evidence-Based Therapies for Autism
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), children benefit most from early, evidence-based interventions that address communication, behavior, and daily living skills.
Here’s an overview of the most common therapies families explore — and how they may complement ABA therapy.
Speech and Language Therapy
Speech therapy helps children improve communication and social interaction. It may involve verbal language, picture systems like PECS (Picture Exchange Communication System), or tools such as AAC (Augmentative and Alternative Communication).
At Adaptive Steps, speech therapy goals often align closely with ABA strategies — both emphasize reinforcing positive communication and helping children express their needs effectively.
Occupational Therapy (OT)
Occupational therapy focuses on functional daily living skills, fine motor development, and sensory regulation.
Children who struggle with sensory sensitivities often benefit from OT to build comfort and independence in daily routines.
When combined with ABA, these therapies can support one another — especially when sensory regulation makes behavioral learning easier and more sustainable.
Physical Therapy (PT)
While less common, physical therapy is sometimes recommended to support motor coordination, balance, or overall body awareness.
For children who experience low muscle tone or difficulty participating in physical play, PT can be a helpful complement to behavioral and developmental interventions.
Play Therapy and Social Skills Groups
Play-based approaches help children learn through interaction and imagination. Social skills groups, for example, allow children to practice turn-taking, emotional expression, and cooperation.
Matt notes that generalizing skills across different environments — from therapy to school to family life — is a key goal of ABA. When children experience consistent reinforcement across therapies, progress becomes more natural and long-lasting.
Developmental and Educational Programs
Families may also explore structured educational models that emphasize learning through play and routine, such as:
- Early Start Denver Model (ESDM) – integrates developmental and behavioral techniques in natural settings.
- TEACCH – focuses on visual structure and individualized routines.
- DIR/Floortime – emphasizes relationship-based learning through play.
Each approach can complement ABA therapy depending on a child’s goals, age, and developmental profile.
Where ABA Therapy Fits In
Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) is a science-based approach that uses observation, reinforcement, and data-driven techniques to build new skills and reduce challenging behaviors.
At Adaptive Steps, every treatment plan is individualized. The BCBA designs the program, sets measurable goals, and determines the appropriate “dosage” of therapy hours — ranging from a few focused sessions each week to more intensive daily programs when needed.
ABA therapy at Adaptive Steps targets communication, self-care, flexibility, and social connection while helping parents understand the why behind behavior. In Schaumburg and surrounding communities, both in-home ABA therapy and parent coaching help families apply these strategies in everyday life.
Why Collaboration Matters
Children often make the most progress when therapy teams communicate.
Adaptive Steps’ BCBAs coordinate with speech and occupational therapists, teachers, and families to promote consistent expectations and reinforcement across all settings.
Matt emphasizes that collaboration is key — every provider plays a unique role, but alignment across therapies allows children to experience steady, measurable growth.
Why Families Choose Adaptive Steps ABA Therapy
- ✅ Locally Owned & Operated – Based in Schaumburg and dedicated to serving families in the Northwest Suburbs.
- 🏡 In-Home & Clinic-Based Care – Therapy built around your child’s natural environment.
- 👨👩👧 Parent Coaching & Family Support – Empowering parents to reinforce learning between sessions.
- 📈 Data-Driven Progress – Each plan is evidence-based and continuously refined by a BCBA.
Get Started with a Free ABA Consultation
If you’re exploring autism therapy options and want to understand how ABA fits into your child’s care plan, the Adaptive Steps team can help you map out next steps.
📞 Call or text (847) 200-5078
🗓️ Schedule a free consultation
📄 Download the ABA Checklist to start tracking early signs and goals.
