A New Approach to Autism Care

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At Education Options, we hear from families every week who are trying to find the right fit for their children — including many navigating special education needs. Some of those conversations are difficult. Parents share stories of services that aren’t available, supports that fall short, or systems that simply can’t meet their child where they are, even when plans like IEPs are in place.

Our goal has always been to help families understand their options — not just within traditional school systems, but beyond them. That includes connecting families to people, programs, and organizations that can provide meaningful support.

That’s why I was so glad to learn about ABA Centers of America. They offer Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy, a well-established, individualized approach that helps children build communication, social, and life skills. As their overview explains, ABA is designed around each child’s unique strengths and needs, with a focus on real progress in everyday life  .

ABA Centers of America provides services that are typically covered through personal medical insurance. While they don’t operate through school funding or EFAs, their therapy can take place in a variety of settings — including at home, in clinics, in the community, or even in schools — depending on what works best for the child and family.

While EdOpt doesn’t provide services directly, we aim to surface resources that families may not know exist. For those looking for additional support — especially in the area of autism and developmental needs — ABA Centers of America is one more option worth exploring.

Come visit ABA Centers of America at the Candia Fair, just a week away. They’ll be at other EdOpt Fairs too. Please see the Fair listings below.

Warmly,
Jody

Jody Underwood, Ph.D.
President and Founder of Education Options

Understanding ABA Therapy—and a Mission to Transform Autism Care 

Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) is more than a clinical term—it’s a science-backed approach that has helped countless individuals build meaningful skills and lead more independent lives. Rooted in the principles of learning and behavior, ABA therapy focuses on increasing helpful behaviors while reducing those that may interfere with safety, communication, or daily functioning. 

Most commonly associated with individuals on the autism spectrum, ABA therapy is highly adaptable. While it is widely used with children, it can also support adolescents and adults in developing practical life skills. What makes ABA particularly effective is its individualized nature: every program is carefully designed around a person’s unique strengths, challenges, and goals. 

At its core, ABA is about progress—whether that means learning to communicate needs, improving social interactions, or building independence in everyday routines. 

A Growing Response to a Critical Need 

In recent years, demand for high-quality autism services has grown rapidly, exposing longstanding gaps in access, consistency, and timely care. ABA Centers of America emerged in response to these challenges, with a mission to redefine how autism services are delivered. 

Founded in 2020, the organization has expanded quickly—from a single clinic to nearly 70 operating areas across more than a dozen states. This growth reflects not only demand, but also a commitment to scaling thoughtfully: combining clinical excellence with strong operational systems and data-informed decision-making. 

The organization provides ABA therapy in a variety of settings, meeting clients where they are most comfortable and where learning is most impactful—whether at home, in clinics, at school, or within the community. 

A Personal Story Behind the Mission 

What sets ABA Centers of America apart begins with its origin story. The company was founded by a father who experienced firsthand the challenges of navigating autism care for his daughter. Long waitlists, inconsistent quality, and limited access revealed a system in need of change. 

That experience became the catalyst for building something better: an organization grounded in compassion, urgency, and a belief that every family deserves timely, high-quality support. The result is a care model designed not only to deliver therapy, but to create meaningful, lasting impact. 

What Makes the Approach Different 

ABA Centers of America emphasizes accessibility, personalization, and a holistic view of development. Their approach is built around several key principles: 

  • Immediate access to care, eliminating long and often discouraging waitlists 
  • Individualized treatment plans, tailored to each client’s needs and strengths 
  • Modern, thoughtfully designed environments that support learning and growth 
  • Skill-building through engaging, enjoyable methods, making therapy both effective and motivating 
  • A focus on functional outcomes, including communication, social interaction, and daily living skills 
  • Flexible service delivery, bringing care directly into the environments where clients live and learn 

Rather than taking a one-size-fits-all approach, the emphasis is on empowering individuals—helping them build on their natural abilities while developing tools to navigate challenges with confidence. 

Supporting Families Every Step of the Way 

Autism care doesn’t happen in isolation. Families play a central role, and effective support extends beyond the individual receiving therapy. ABA Centers of America aims to provide comprehensive care that helps families better understand, support, and advocate for their loved ones. 

From early diagnosis through ongoing therapy, the goal is to make the journey more navigable—reducing uncertainty while increasing access to meaningful resources. 

Connecting with the Community 

For those interested in learning more, exploring services, or becoming a referral partner, ABA Centers of America encourages open connection. They are also active in community events, including upcoming EdOpt gatherings, providing opportunities to engage in person and learn more about their work. If you have any questions, contact Andrea Macri, New Hampshire Business Development Representative, at 603-718-4272 or [email protected]. 

ABA therapy continues to be a powerful tool in supporting individuals with autism, but access and quality remain critical factors. Organizations committed to innovation, compassion, and accountability are helping reshape what care can—and should—look like. 

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Blue slide, tables and chairs, climbing facilities and swings.
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EdOpt Fairs!

Save the dates. Check out which education providers have already registered!

Candia (one week away!)

Goffstown (reg now limited!)

Swanzey

Claremont

We’re also working on a fair in Concord and other places in the summer and fall. Let us know if you want to organize one in your area!

Let your friends know about these fairs. Word of mouth is the best way to advertise. Follow us and share our events and posts on Facebook, Instagram, and X.

Double your impact for NH families!

Helping families discover all their school options is exactly why EdOpt exists. We hold in-person fairs all around the state and do not charge a fee to providers or attendees. We’d like to keep it that way.

To do that, we have to raise money.

For 2026, generous supporters have seeded an $18,000 matching campaign, which means your donation will be doubled until the match is met. We have already raised over $12,500 — only $5,500 to go!

You can donate here:
https://secure.anedot.com/edopt/donate
All the donation details can be found on this ^ page.

It’s now possible to donate using Bitcoin, making it even easier for supporters to contribute. Checks are always welcome, too!

Please help more New Hampshire families discover education options that fit their children, by making your most generous gift today.

Warmly,
Jody

P.S. EdOpt is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, so you can get tax benefits by donating to us.

About EdOpt

EdOpt is a 501(c)(3) non-profit whose aim is to help families understand all their education options, from non-traditional (homeschooling, homeschool co-ops, microschools) to traditional (charter schools, private schools, tech centers, dual enrollment, learn everywhere).

Use our website to find education providers options around the state. Please let us know if we’re missing any!

EdOpt also provides guidance to help you figure out what will suit your children. Set up a FREE Education Options consultation today. And check out our new AI Assistant, the EdOpt Navigator, available on every website page.

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EdOpt is a 501(c)(3) non-profit education organization. Our mission is to provide information, support, and connections to families who want to explore education options. We accept tax-deductible donations to help us with our mission.

Talk to us about education options for your family.