Tag: early intervention

New Autism Learning Center Now Open in Roxbury, MA

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FEATURED POSTS

New Autism Learning Center Now Open in Roxbury, MA
August 4, 2026
A New Chapter for All Autism Talk
July 29, 2026
Autism and the Two of Us: Love, Communication, and Neurodiversity
July 2, 2026
5 Sensory-Friendly Spots in and Around Roxbury, Massachusetts 
July 1, 2026

BCI Announces No Waitlist and Flexible Hours for Families

Behavioral Concepts (BCI), a provider of LEARN Behavioral, is proud to announce the opening of its new Roxbury Learning Center at 2565 Washington St., Suite B, Roxbury, MA 02119.

BCI is a leading contemporary applied behavior analysis (ABA) provider of center-based and in-home autism services for children with autism and Down syndrome. The Roxbury Learning Center provides Early Intervention, diagnostics, parent education, and center-based ABA therapy to children ages 2-6 with autism and Down syndrome, up to age 21. Outside of the center, the Roxbury team offers in-home ABA services for children with autism and Down syndrome.

“We are excited to open our doors and bring compassionate, contemporary ABA therapy for children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) to Roxbury and the surrounding area,” said Katie Corey, M.S., LABA, BCBA, Senior Regional Clinical Director. “We value being a part of the Roxbury community and look forward to helping find success for every child in our care.” 

Key Features of the Roxbury Learning Center:

  • An indoor gross motor space for physical and social development and an art room, in addition to the dedicated clinical space.
  • ABA therapy, which includes a learning-rich environment, unique play-based learning spaces, and one-on-one support.
  • No waitlist and flexible treatment hours to accommodate busy family schedules. 
  • Serving children 2- 6 years old with autism with personalized therapy plans.
  • Serving individuals with Down syndrome, up to age 21, with personalized therapy plans.
  • Conveniently located and easily accessible by public transportation.

BCI is now enrolling new clients based in Roxbury, Dorchester, and the surrounding South Boston area. The center accepts both commercial insurance and MassHealth.

About BCI

BCI, part of the LEARN Behavioral network, is one of the nation’s leading providers of compassionate autism care. For more than 20 years, BCI has been delivering evidence-based services, helping children with autism and Down syndrome find success and reach their unique potential.

In addition to the Roxbury Learning Center, BCI has existing center-based ABA therapy Learning Centers in Beverly, Brockton, Fitchburg, Framingham, Lawrence, Littleton, Lowell, New Bedford, Newton, Quincy, Springfield, Sturbridge, Taunton, Wilmington, two locations in Worcester, MA, and a location in Nashua, NH.

For more information or to enroll a child at the BCI in Roxbury, call (508) 363-0200 or visit bciaba.com/locations/roxbury

About LEARN Behavioral

LEARN Behavioral is a national leader in autism treatment, offering comprehensive diagnostic services and contemporary applied behavior analysis (ABA) therapy for children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). With a nationwide network of ABA providers and more than 100 Learning Centers across the country, LEARN delivers the highest standard of evidence-based care—customized to meet the unique needs and interests of each child and family. For more information, visit learnbehavioral.com

Early Intervention Services with BCI

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At BCI, early intervention sets us apart. We believe the earlier a child starts in applied behavior analysis (ABA) therapy, the better equipped they are for long-term success. We’re experienced in offering treatment that sets children up for success.

Autism Learning Center Opens Doors in Sturbridge, MA with Ribbon Cutting Celebration

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BCI welcomes families to their new location.

Behavioral Concepts (BCI), a provider of LEARN Behavioral, officially opened its doors with a ribbon-cutting ceremony at its new Sturbridge Learning Center, 179 Main Street, Suite 2, Sturbridge, MA 01566.

A ribbon-cutting ceremony hosted by the Worcester Regional Chamber of Commerce was held on March 26, 2026.

During the ceremony, State Representative Todd Smola and Amanda Hellyar, District Director for Senator Ryan Fattman, shared greetings and remarks. Erika Burrows, President of the Worcester Regional Chamber of Commerce, and Town Administrator Robin Grimm also shared remarks.

Members of the Worcester Regional Chamber of Commerce and other guests were in attendance.

Ribbon-cutting attendees were able to tour the facility, enjoy light refreshments, and meet BCI’s leadership team, Annaleisa Delgado, BCBA, LABA, Regional Clinical Director, and Tiffany Zayas, M.S., BCBA, LABA, Senior Regional Clinical Director.

“We’re proud to bring compassionate, high-quality ABA therapy to families in the greater Sturbridge area,” said Annaleisa Delgado. “At BCI, we tailor our services to each child and family—offering age-appropriate, engaging learning experiences rooted in science and guided by care.”

BCI is Sturbridge’s premiere contemporary applied behavior analysis (ABA) provider of center-based autism services for children ages 1-12 years. The Sturbridge Learning Center provides center-based ABA therapy, parent education, diagnostics, Early Intervention, and Social Skills Programs. Outside of the center, the Sturbridge team offers in-home ABA therapy.

Delgado continued, “Our new space was designed to support both individual growth and peer collaboration. It’s a place where children can gain essential skills—and where their journey toward success in school and life begins. We’re honored to be part of this community and grateful to offer life-changing services right here in Sturbridge.”

Left to right: State Representative Todd Smola; Robin Grim, Town Administrator; Annaleisa Delgado, Regional Clinical Director of the Sturbridge Learning Center (cutting the ribbon); Britney Catron; Amanda Robitaille; Irene Barajas; Tiffany Zayas; Makenzie Holm-Brien; Amanda Hellyar, District Director for Senator Fattman; and Erika Burrows, President of the Worcester Regional Chamber of Commerce

No Waitlist, Flexible Hours, and Convenient Location

The Sturbridge Learning Center offers after-school treatment hours to accommodate busy family schedules. There is no waitlist. The center is conveniently located near Old Sturbridge Village, I-84, and US-20, and easily accessible for families in the region.

For more information or to enroll a child at the Sturbridge Learning Center, call 508-363-0200 or visit https://bciaba.com/locations/sturbridge

About BCI

BCI, part of the LEARN Behavioral network, is one of the nation’s leading providers of compassionate autism care. For more than 20 years, BCI has been delivering evidence-based services, helping children with autism find success and reach their unique potential.

In addition to the Sturbridge Learning Center, BCI has existing Learning Centers in Beverly, Brockton, Fitchburg, Framingham, Lawrence, Littleton, Lowell, New Bedford, Newton, Springfield, Taunton, Wilmington, two locations in Worcester, MA, and one location in Nashua, NH.

About LEARN Behavioral

LEARN Behavioral is a national leader in autism treatment, offering comprehensive diagnostic services and contemporary applied behavior analysis (ABA) therapy for children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). With a nationwide network of ABA providers and more than 100 Learning Centers across the country, LEARN delivers the highest standard of evidence-based care—customized to meet the unique needs and interests of each child and family. For more information, visit learnbehavioral.com.

New Autism Learning Center Opens Doors in Quincy, MA

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No Waitlist for Families in Norfolk County Area

Behavioral Concepts (BCI), a provider of LEARN Behavioral, is proud to announce the opening of its new location at 8 Hancock Court, Quincy, MA 02169.

BCI is a leading contemporary applied behavior analysis (ABA) provider of center-based services for children with autism and Down syndrome. The Quincy Learning Center provides Early Intervention, diagnostic evaluations for autism, center-based and in-home ABA therapy to children with autism ages 2-6, and after-school programming for older children. It also offers center-based and in-home ABA therapy for individuals with Down syndrome, up to age 21.

“We are excited to have the opportunity to partner with South Shore families,” said Katie Corey, M.S., LABA, BCBA, Senior Regional Clinical Director. “We value being a part of the Quincy community and look forward to helping find success for every child in our care.” 

Key Features of the Quincy Learning Center:

  • Large facility that includes an indoor gross motor space for physical and social development, as well as an art room and a teaching kitchen for children.
  • ABA therapy, which includes a learning-rich environment, unique play-based learning spaces, and one-on-one support.
  • No waitlist and flexible treatment hours to accommodate busy family schedules.
  • Serving children 2-15 years old with personalized therapy plans.
  • Conveniently located near I-93 and easily accessible to public transportation.

The center is now enrolling new clients throughout the South Shore with no waitlist and flexible treatment hours.

About BCI

BCI, part of the LEARN Behavioral network, is one of the nation’s leading providers of compassionate autism care. For more than 20 years, BCI has been delivering evidence-based services, helping children with autism and Down syndrome find success and reach their unique potential.

In addition to the Quincy Learning Center, BCI has existing center-based ABA therapy Learning Centers in Beverly, Brockton, Fall River, Fitchburg, Framingham, Lawrence, Littleton, Lowell, Newton, New Bedford, Springfield, Taunton, Wilmington, two locations in Worcester, MA, and a location in Nashua, NH.

For more information or to enroll a child at the Quincy Learning Center, call (508) 363-0200 or visit https://bciaba.com/locations/quincy

About LEARN Behavioral

LEARN Behavioral is a national leader in autism treatment, offering comprehensive diagnostic services and contemporary applied behavior analysis (ABA) therapy for children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). With a nationwide network of ABA providers and more than 100 Learning Centers across the country, LEARN delivers the highest standard of evidence-based care—customized to meet the unique needs and interests of each child and family. For more information, visit learnbehavioral.com.

New Autism Learning Center Opens Doors in Fall River, MA

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No Waitlist for Families in Bristol County Area

Behavioral Concepts (BCI), a provider of LEARN Behavioral, is proud to announce the opening of its new location at 1151 Robeson St., Suite 101, Fall River, Massachusetts 02720.

BCI is a leading contemporary applied behavior analysis (ABA) provider of center-based services for children with autism and Down syndrome. The Fall River Learning Center provides Early Intervention, center-based and in-home ABA therapy, diagnostic services, and parent education to children with autism ages 2-6. It also offers center-based and in-home ABA services for individuals with Down syndrome, up to age 21.

“We are excited to have the opportunity to partner with families in the South Coast region,” said Aerin Parish-Toscano, MS, BCBA, LABA, Regional Clinical Director. “We value being a part of the Fall River community and look forward to helping find success for every child in our care.” 

Key Features of the Fall River Learning Center:

  • Large facility which includes an indoor gross motor space for physical and social development, as well as a dedicated family meeting/treatment guidance room for parent participation.
  • ABA therapy, which includes a learning-rich environment, unique play-based learning spaces, and one-on-one support.
  • Access to nearby public playground.
  • No waitlist and in-home afternoon and weekend services to accommodate busy family schedules.
  • Serving children 2- 6 years old with autism with personalized therapy plans.
  • Conveniently located near I-195 and Route 24.

The center is now enrolling new clients based in Berkley, Dartmouth, Dighton, Fall River, Freetown, Somerset, Swansea, and Westport with no waitlist and flexible treatment hours.

A ribbon-cutting ceremony will be held in the spring.

About BCI

BCI, part of the LEARN Behavioral network, is one of the nation’s leading providers of compassionate autism care. For more than 20 years, BCI has been delivering evidence-based services, helping children with autism and Down syndrome find success and reach their unique potential.

In addition to the Fall River Learning Center, BCI has existing center-based ABA therapy Learning Centers in Beverly, Brockton, Fitchburg, Framingham, Lawrence, Littleton, Lowell, Newton, New Bedford, Springfield, Taunton, Wilmington, two locations in Worcester, MA, and a location in Nashua, NH.

For more information or to enroll a child at the Fall River Learning Center, call (508) 363-0200 or visit https://bciaba.com/locations/fall-river.

About LEARN Behavioral

LEARN Behavioral is a national leader in autism treatment, offering comprehensive diagnostic services and contemporary applied behavior analysis (ABA) therapy for children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). With a nationwide network of ABA providers and more than 100 Learning Centers across the country, LEARN delivers the highest standard of evidence-based care—customized to meet the unique needs and interests of each child and family. For more information, visit learnbehavioral.com.

What’s Next After Early Intervention Services?

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What’s next after Early Intervention Services in Massachusetts? At BCI, you don’t have to experience a disruption in services after your child turns three. Learn more about how we bridge the gap for our early learners as they prepare for kindergarten by watching the video below.

Autism: Symptoms and Signs

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Dr. Genevieve Marshall, BCBA, breaks down myths about autism, the early signs of autism, and what you can do to keep yourself informed on best practices. To learn more about ABA therapy and services available to you, visit https://learnbehavioral.com/services/find-a-location

Recognizing Autism Symptoms: How to Spot Early Signs

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Clinically Reviewed By: 1

By Sabrina Daneshvar, Ph.D., BCBA-D, senior vice president of clinical services at LEARN Behavioral

Recognizing Autism Symptoms: How to Spot Early Signs

Autism isn’t always easy to spot. It’s a complex neurological and developmental disorder. It often shows up in early childhood and affects how a person interacts with others, communicates, and learns.

Since symptoms of autism vary so widely from person to person, it can be challenging to diagnose.

Recognizing early signs can be vital to getting help. If you suspect your child may be on the autism spectrum, talk to your pediatrician. A medical professional can guide you on the next steps. This may include a complete diagnostic evaluation.

Understanding Autism

You may be familiar with people talking about autism existing on a “spectrum.” This means a person’s symptoms can vary in severity across many areas. For example, some people might have trouble with social interactions and communication. They might have difficulty understanding body language or maintaining a conversation. Others might have repetitive behaviors or be intensely focused on certain interests.

Simply put, autism doesn’t look the same for everyone. Everyone experiences it differently.

Early Signs of Autism

While every child is unique, there are common signs of autism to watch for. Here are some:

  • Social Challenges: Your child may avoid eye contact. They might have yet to respond to their name. They may show little interest in people or toys.
  • Communication Difficulties: Look for delayed speech. Or your child might repeat words without understanding them. They may not use gestures like pointing.
  • Repetitive Behaviors: A child with autism may flap their hands. They might line up toys instead of playing with them. They could insist on routines and get upset with changes.
  • Sensory Sensitivities: Your child may react unusually to sounds, lights, or textures. They could either be overly sensitive or not sensitive enough.

Watch for signs such as:

  • Not smiling at others by six months
  • Not using gestures to communicate by 12 months
  • Not babbling by 12 months
  • Not speaking single words by 16 months
  • Not speaking two-word phrases by 24 months
  • Not reacting to voices, sounds, or their name

Remember, these signs don’t confirm autism. But they suggest you should check with your health care provider.

What to Do If You Notice These Signs

If you think your child may be showing signs of autism, early intervention is critical. Children’s brains are most adaptable and responsive to learning during the first few years of life. Research shows that high-quality early intervention can significantly improve essential skill development. These include communication, social interactions, cognition, and self-care.

So, if you notice signs of autism, document your observations. Talk to your child’s doctor, and stay patient and positive.

Getting a diagnosis of autism is not an end. It’s a beginning. It opens the door to getting the services and support that can help your child thrive.

Accessing therapies early can lead to better long-term outcomes. It reduces the need for intensive support in the future. It can also help foster supportive environments for your child’s growth.

Early intervention can also teach you strategies for navigating the world of autism.

Interested in learning more about the early signs of autism? Visit our website for additional information and how we can help you get started on your child’s journey to success.

Shaping the Future: Influential Women in Autism and ABA Therapy

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March is Women’s History Month. It’s a time to celebrate the accomplishments of women in all walks of life.

In the area of autism and contemporary applied behavior analysis (ABA) therapy, many women have made a lasting mark. They’ve broken barriers. They’ve conducted significant research, and they’ve paved the way for better understanding and treatment of autism.

Today, we spotlight seven women who have shown us what it means to lead with passion, dedication, and commitment. They are making a difference, and their work continues to inspire future generations of women in the field.

1. Temple Grandin: The Trailblazing Voice in Autism Advocacy

Temple Grandin, Ph.D., is a name synonymous with autism advocacy. Born in 1947, she was diagnosed with autism in early childhood. Despite the challenges, she went on to become an esteemed academic and animal behaviorist. She has gained recognition for writing books and delivering speeches on autism and animal behavior. Today, she is a professor of animal science at Colorado State University.

2. Greta Thunberg: Championing Climate Action and Autism Acceptance

Greta Thunberg is a Swedish environmental activist. She has gained global recognition for her efforts to fight climate change. She’s also known for being openly autistic. She has referred to her autism as her “superpower,” and has discussed how it has helped her in her activism by allowing her to focus intensely on topics that interest her. Greta has used her platform to advocate for acceptance and understanding of autism. On her Facebook page, she identifies herself as an “Autistic climate justice activist.”

3. Breanna Clark: Shattering World Records and Autism Stereotypes

Breanna Clark is an American Paralympic athlete who was diagnosed with autism at age 4. She competes in T20 category races, a classification for athletes with intellectual impairments. She has represented athletes with autism on an international stage. Off the track, she’s been an advocate and role model for people with autism.

4. Ronit Molko: A Powerful Force in Autism Therapy and Entrepreneurship

Ronit Molko, Ph.D., BCBA-D, is another luminary in the field. She is a thought leader and subject matter expert in autism spectrum disorder, developmental disabilities, and behavioral healthcare. She co-founded Autism Spectrum Therapies (acquired by Learn It Systems) and is a LEARN Behavioral board member. In this All Autism Talk podcast, she talks about how ongoing research is helping us better understand the unique challenges girls with autism face.

5. Devon Sundberg: Shaping the Future of ABA Therapy and Autism Awareness

Devon Sundberg, MS, BCBA, co-founded the Behavior Analysis Center for Autism (BACA). She has made significant contributions to the field of behavior analysis, both through her work at BACA and as the founder of the Women in Behavior Analysis conference. In this All Autism Talk podcast, she shares how raising three daughters helped open her eyes to how gendered life can be — and about the need for more women in the autism field.

6. Hanna Rue: Pioneering Innovations in Autism Treatment and Research

Hanna Rue, Ph.D., BCBA-D, is chief clinical officer for LEARN Behavioral. Her research interests are broad and include the identification of evidence-based practices for the treatment of autism. Her influence in the field of autism is evident in her wide-ranging work that spans clinical care, research, and advocacy. She has made significant contributions to STEM fields, sharing her insights through various platforms, including top-performing podcast episodes about autism, and extending her influence and reach in the autism community.

7. Sabrina Daneshvar: Revolutionizing the Field with Innovation and Compassion

Sabrina Daneshvar, Ph.D., BCBA-D, serves as the senior vice president of clinical services at LEARN Behavioral. Her research interests include video modeling and teaching social skills. This work has contributed to developing innovative strategies for improving social skills in children with autism. Sabrina has also taught, mentored, and trained many graduate students pursuing their degrees.

These are just a few women who have helped to shape the field of autism and ABA therapy. Their work underscores the importance of early intervention, peer support, and recognizing the diverse signs and symptoms of autism in girls and women.

We celebrate these women and everyone who has made contributions to advance our understanding of autism. They provide hope and inspiration to countless families across the world affected by it.

5 Benefits of Early Intervention for Autism

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Reviewed by Jocelyn Thompson, LCSW, BCBA
Vice President, Clinical Services, LEARN Behavioral

Discovering that your child has been diagnosed with autism can be an incredibly challenging and emotional experience for parents and caregivers. It can make you feel uncertain, overwhelmed, and worried about what to do next.

It’s important to know that early detection and intervention can not only make a significant difference in your child’s development — but also offer a sense of reassurance and ease for you as a parent.

What Is Early Intervention?

“Early intervention” for children with autism refers to the process of identifying and addressing developmental domains — including social, communication, and behavioral skills — as early as possible in a child’s life. It involves providing specialized support, therapies, and services designed to meet the unique needs of each child with autism.

The age range for early intervention is most effective when started as early as possible, ideally before the age of 3. Research has shown that the earlier a child with autism receives intervention, the better their outcomes are likely to be in terms of improved skills, reduced behaviors that interfere with development and learning, and overall quality of life.

The positive impact of early intervention for children with autism is undeniable. It paves the way for their growth and progress.

Here are five compelling reasons why embracing early intervention can put your mind at ease and set your child on a path toward fulfilling their potential:

1. Early Intervention Can Improve Your Child’s Socialization Skills

Children with autism often struggle with social interaction and communication, which can lead to isolation and difficulties in making friends. Early intervention can help children develop socialization skills by providing opportunities for them to interact with others in a structured and supportive environment. This can include teaching them how to initiate conversations, understand social cues, and form friendships.

2. Early Intervention Helps Improve Your Child’s Communication Skills

Many children with autism struggle with communication — whether it’s speaking, processing language, or using non-verbal cues. Early intervention through applied behavior analysis (ABA) can help children express themselves and better understand others, which can lead to improved socialization and overall quality of life.

3. Early Intervention Helps Your Child Learn Appropriate Behaviors

Sometimes life with autism can be challenging. There can be a fair share of meltdowns and tantrums. Early intervention through ABA addresses these often difficult moments and helps children learn appropriate behaviors and how to strengthen ways to learn and interact with others.

4. Early Intervention Sets Your Child Up for Academic Success

Children with autism can struggle academically, which can lead to frustration and low self-esteem. With the help of early intervention, though, children and families can prepare for future academic success. During early intervention, young learners develop social and communication skills that will benefit them not only in their daily lives but also in the classroom once they enroll in school.

5. Early Intervention Can Improve Family Dynamics

Autism can be challenging not just for the child, but for your entire family. Early intervention supports your family by providing resources and tools to help you better understand and support your child. It can also help reduce stress and improve overall family dynamics between you and your child, as well as your child and their siblings.

These are just a few of the many reasons why early intervention for kids with autism is beneficial. By starting treatment early, children with autism can develop the skills and abilities they need to lead fulfilling and successful lives.

Jocelyn Thompson, LCSW, BCBA, is the vice president of clinical services at LEARN Behavioral. During undergrad, she studied under the direction of Dr. Ivar Lovaas and completed an internship at the Lovaas Institute for Early Intervention. Jocelyn has worked with diverse populations as a behavior analyst and social worker for the past 15 years.

For more resources on early intervention, listen to our podcast episode featuring Dr. Geraldine Dawson, co-creator of the Early Start Denver Model, and read our blog on brain plasticity and early intervention written by Ronit Molko, Ph.D., BCBA-D and Dr. Evian Gordon, Chairman and CEO of Brain Resource.