If you’re a parent of a child with autism in Maryland, you may be wondering where to begin when searching for effective, personalized care. Applied behavioral analysis therapy (ABA) is one of the most evidence-based, trusted therapies available, but not all programs are the same. Understanding what to look for and what your child needs can help you find the right support at the right time. 

Whether you’re searching for “ABA therapy near me” or just beginning to learn about ABA therapy in Maryland, this guide will walk you through what to expect and where to find high-quality care that supports your child and your family. 

Why ABA therapy matters 

ABA therapy is a research-backed approach that helps children diagnosed with autism develop communication, social, behavioral, and life skills. By reinforcing helpful behaviors and reducing behaviors that interfere with learning, ABA creates a measurable, individualized, and practical framework for progress. 

Quality ABA programs don’t take a one-size-fits-all approach. Instead, they focus on your child’s unique needs, strengths, and developmental stage—something we prioritize at every Children’s Specialized ABA location. 

What to look for in ABA services in Maryland 

If you’re evaluating ABA services in Maryland, here are a few key elements to consider: 

• Comprehensive support: The best programs provide more than therapy—they guide your family through the entire process, from diagnosis to treatment to ongoing progress. 
• Licensed professionals: Look for care delivered by Board Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBAs) and trained behavior technicians under professional supervision. 
• Multiple care settings: Depending on their goals and learning style, children may benefit from center-based, home-based, or a combination of both. 
• Family involvement: Parent and caregiver guidance should be integral to any quality ABA program, helping you extend learning and support into daily life. 
• Related services: Some children may benefit from speech therapy or occupational therapy in addition to ABA. 

At Children’s Specialized ABA, we offer all of the above at our Maryland locations in Beltsville and Owings Mills. 

ABA services available at Children’s Specialized ABA in Maryland 

Children’s Specialized ABA provides a full spectrum of autism services across Maryland, all grounded in clinical best practices and delivered with compassion. 

Center-based ABA therapy 

At our Beltsville and Owings Mills centers, children work with behavior technicians in a safe, structured environment designed to minimize distractions and maximize learning. These centers also support social development through peer interactions, group activities, and play-based learning. Center-based ABA allows children to build critical skills, like communication, following directions, and turn-taking, while receiving support from our trained clinical team. 

Home-based ABA therapy 

Some families prefer care delivered in the home, where children can learn in their natural environment. Home-based ABA helps generalize skills across routines like mealtime, playtime, and bedtime. It also allows our clinicians to work directly with parents and caregivers on implementing strategies that reinforce progress at home. 

After-school ABA support 

We understand that families need flexibility. That’s why all of our Maryland locations offer extended therapy hours from 5–7 p.m. This option is ideal for school-aged children who need additional support outside of regular school hours or for families balancing busy schedules. 

Additional services 

We’re proud to offer more than ABA therapy alone: 

• Speech therapy (by referral): Focuses on expressive and receptive language development 
• Occupational therapy (by referral): Supports fine and gross motor development, as well as daily living skills 
• Parent and caregiver guidance: Helps families learn how to reinforce therapy goals in everyday situations 

These services are integrated into our whole-child approach, helping children not only learn but thrive. 

Getting started with ABA therapy in Maryland 

Finding the right care starts with understanding your child’s needs. Here’s how the process works at Children’s Specialized ABA: 

Step 1: Diagnostic evaluation 

If your child hasn’t received a formal autism diagnosis, we’ll help connect you with a licensed psychologist to complete a comprehensive diagnostic evaluation. 

Step 2: Initial assessment of treatment goals 

Once a diagnosis is in place, a BCBA will meet with your family to identify strengths, challenges, and goals. This includes determining the number of therapy hours recommended, identifying whether center-based or home-based care is most appropriate, and outlining a plan tailored to your child. 

Step 3: Therapy begins 

Your child will begin therapy with our team, supported by board-certified clinicians and registered behavior technicians who follow the treatment plan and adjust as needed to ensure ongoing growth and engagement. 

Throughout this journey, you’ll receive regular updates, support, and opportunities for collaboration—because when families and clinicians work together, children succeed. 

Why families trust Children’s Specialized ABA 

Families across Maryland choose us because of our commitment to quality, transparency, and compassionate care. Our team is trained through our Foundations of Compassionate ABA Program, which ensures every clinician understands how to deliver therapy and why the approach must be centered in kindness, dignity, and respect. 

Our locations in Beltsville and Owings Mills are part of a growing network dedicated to providing outstanding ABA therapy in Maryland—wherever families need us most. 

Contact Children’s Specialized ABA 

If you’re searching for ABA therapy near me or trying to understand the best options for ABA therapy in Maryland, we invite you to contact Children’s Specialized ABA today. 

We’re here to guide your family through each step of the process with clarity and compassion. From diagnostic evaluations to personalized treatment plans, our goal is to help your child grow in confidence, skills, and independence—at home, at school, and beyond. 

Learn more about our Beltsville and Owings Mills locations, and call 201.979.0772 or complete our online form to schedule a consultation. Let’s work together to build a brighter future for your child.