Tag: LEARN Behavioral

New Autism Learning Center Opens Doors in Fall River, MA with Ribbon Cutting Celebration

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FEATURED POSTS

New Autism Learning Center Opens Doors in Fall River, MA with Ribbon Cutting Celebration
September 1, 2026
New Autism & Down Syndrome Learning Center Opens Doors in Littleton, MA with Ribbon Cutting Celebration
August 20, 2026
New Autism Learning Center Now Open in Roxbury, MA
August 4, 2026
A New Chapter for All Autism Talk
July 29, 2026

BCI welcomes South Coast families to their new location.

Behavioral Concepts (BCI), a provider of LEARN Behavioral, officially opened the doors of its new Fall River Learning Center with a ribbon-cutting ceremony on August 3, 2026.

Hosted by One SouthCoast Chamber of Commerce, the ribbon-cutting ceremony was held at BCI’s new location at 1151 Robeson St., Suite 101, Fall River, Massachusetts 02720.

During the ceremony, Massachusetts State Representative Carole Fiola and Maureen Flanagan of the Office of Senator Michael J. Rodrigues shared remarks. Fall River Mayor Paul Coogan and Mike O’Sullivan, CEO of One SouthCoast Chamber of Commerce, also shared remarks. Members of One SouthCoast Chamber and other guests were in attendance.

Ribbon-cutting attendees were able to tour the facility, enjoy light refreshments, and meet BCI’s leadership team: Abigail Godon, MS, BCBA, Center Director, and Aerin Parish-Toscano, MS, BCBA, LABA, Regional Clinical Director.

“Our Fall River Learning Center was built to help children grow at their own pace and learn alongside others,” said Abigail Godon, Center Director. “BCI is a place where children can build important skills—and begin their path toward success in school and life. We’re honored to be part of the Fall River community and grateful to offer these life-changing services right here.”

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 ABA therapy, diagnostic services, and parent education to children with autism ages 2-6. It also offers ABA services for individuals with Down syndrome, up to age 21. Outside the center, the Fall River team offers ABA support in the home and community settings.

“At BCI, our mission has always been simple: to give every child caring, proven support that helps them reach their full potential,” said Aerin Parish-Toscano, Regional Clinical Director. “We look forward to helping find success for every individual in our care.” 

Front row from left to right: Aerin Parish Toscano; Abigail Godon; Carole Fiola, MA State Rep; Paul Coogan, Mayor Fall River; Joscelyn Varieu; Gina Mazza. Back Row from left to right: Chris Johnson; Maureen Flanagan, Office of Senator Michael J. Rodrigues; Tiago Pereira; Carl Sawejko Vice Chair of One SouthCoast Chamber; Lisa Lebreux; Mike O’Sullivan, CEO One SouthCoast Chamber; Ian Trombly, VP of Public Policy; Clifford Athouriste, Dir. Of Membership and Retention.

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.
  • Serving children and young adults with Down syndrome ages 2-21 with personalized therapy plans.
  • Conveniently located near I-195 and Route 24.

The center is now enrolling new clients in the South Coast region with no waitlist and flexible treatment hours.

Open House in September

Families are invited to a sensory-friendly fall carnival/open house at the Fall River Learning Center on September 11, 2026, from 4 to 6 pm. This event will feature sensory-friendly carnival-themed activities for the whole family to enjoy in a welcoming, inclusive environment. 

For more information or to enroll a child at the Fall River Learning Center, call (774) 379-0442 or visit https://bciaba.com/locations/fall-river.

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, Quincy, Roxbury, Springfield, Sturbridge, Taunton, Wilmington, two locations in Worcester, MA, and a 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 & Down Syndrome Learning Center Opens Doors in Littleton, MA with Ribbon Cutting Celebration

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BCI welcomes Middlesex County area families to their new location.

Behavioral Concepts (BCI), a provider of LEARN Behavioral, officially opened the doors of its new Littleton Learning Center with a ribbon-cutting ceremony on July 29, 2026.

Hosted by Nashoba Valley Chamber of Commerce, the ribbon-cutting ceremony was held at BCI’s new location at 295 Foster Street, Suite 130, Littleton, Massachusetts 01460.

During the ceremony, Melissa Fetterhoff, President of Nashoba Valley Chamber of Commerce, and Massachusetts State Representative James Arciero shared greetings and remarks. Gary Wilson of the Littleton Select Board and Lyn Snow, Director of Student Services for Littleton Public Schools, also shared remarks. Members of the Nashoba Valley Chamber of Commerce and other guests were in attendance.

Ribbon-cutting attendees were able to tour the facility, enjoy light refreshments, and meet Katherine Connolly, M.A., BCBA, LABA, Regional Clinical Director of BCI Littleton, and her team of board certified behavior analysts (BCBAs) and behavior technicians.

“BCI is excited to bring compassionate, high-quality ABA therapy to families in the greater Littleton area,” said Katherine Connolly, Regional Clinical Director. “We tailor our services to each child and family, providing engaging, evidence-based care in an environment designed to help children build skills, confidence, and independence.” 

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 Littleton Learning Center provides Early Intervention, center-based and in-home ABA therapy, Social Skills Programs, and parent education to children with autism and Down syndrome.

“At BCI, our mission has always been simple: to provide every child with compassionate, evidence-based care that helps them reach their fullest potential,” said Tiffany Zayas, Senior Regional Clinical Director. “We look forward to helping find success for every child in our care.” 

The Littleton Learning Center is enrolling new clients based in Littleton and surrounding towns, with no waitlist and flexible treatment hours. The center is conveniently located near I-495 and Route 2, and accessible by public transportation.

Left to right: Melissa Fetterhoff, Kevin Herrera, Christine Hennessey, Edward Dedos, Rey Masso, Katrina Good, Kate Connolly, Massachusetts State Representative James Arciero, Littleton Select Board Member Gary Wilson, Chief of Police Douglas Landry, Tiffany Zayas

Open House in September

Families are invited to a sensory-friendly ice cream social/open house at the Littleton Learning Center on September 19, 2026, from 2 to 4 pm. This event will feature free ice cream, an opportunity to meet the team, and a calm and welcoming space to visit with other families.

For more information or to enroll a child at BCI in Littleton, call (508) 363-0200 or visit https://bciaba.com/locations/littleton

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 Littleton Learning Center, BCI has existing center-based ABA therapy Learning Centers in Beverly, Brockton, Fall River, Fitchburg, Framingham, Lawrence, Lowell, Newton, New Bedford, Quincy, Roxbury, Springfield, Sturbridge, Taunton, Wilmington, two locations in Worcester, MA, and a 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 Now Open in Roxbury, MA

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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

A New Chapter for All Autism Talk

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After more than 10 years of conversations, learning, and community, All Autism Talk is taking a pause. 

In this brief episode, Richie reflects on the podcast’s journey—from amplifying autistic voices and sharing expert perspectives to the conversations that have personally shaped him as a husband, father, and advocate.

This hiatus is an opportunity to step back, think intentionally about what’s next, and ensure the next chapter continues to serve the autism community in meaningful ways. In the meantime, we’ll be revisiting some of our favorite episodes, bringing them back with refreshed audio and renewed relevance.

To everyone who has listened, shared an episode, or been part of this community: thank you. Your support has made this journey possible, and we’re excited for what’s ahead.

Keep us in your feed. The next chapter is coming.

Meet Michael Maloney, Founder and CEO of LEARN Behavioral

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Michael Maloney, Founder and CEO of LEARN Behavioral, joins us to share about his early career in education and how a small consulting company grew into an organization that now provides autism services in over 17 states (23 with LEARN Academy). In this conversation, we also explore his insights about the changing landscape of services for families. Michael shares, “In the last ten to twelve years, there has been an absolute sea change. When we started, four states covered services, and now all 50 do. Parents often had to pay out of pocket, and few could afford to. The financial burden has lessened so significantly because of the growing awareness and advocacy.”

Watch the video interview at www.allautismtalk.com.

5 Sensory-Friendly Spots in and Around Roxbury, Massachusetts 

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Families who have a child with autism or sensory sensitivities often learn to read a place before they ever walk through the door. They notice the lighting in a lobby, the sound level in a waiting area, and whether there is space to step away when things feel too big, too loud, or too fast. 

In and around Roxbury and Greater Boston, some museums, parks, libraries, and community spaces have started thinking about those details more carefully. They might have a quieter morning hour or a staff member who understands that some children need time and flexibility to feel comfortable. 

For many families, those changes can make it easier to say yes to an outing. 

Here are five sensory-friendly places families in and around Roxbury may want to explore. 

1. Boston Children’s Museum Creates Room for Flexible Play 

Boston Children’s Museum offers sensory-friendly accommodations and hands-on exhibits that let children explore at their own pace. The museum provides social narratives, sensory-friendly resources, and quieter spaces that can help families prepare before visiting. Large exhibits spread across multiple floors, which also makes it easier to move away from busy areas when needed. 

Tip for families: Start on the upper floors early in the day before field trip groups arrive. Bringing headphones can also help during busier afternoon hours. 

2. Franklin Park Gives Kids Space to Move 

Franklin Park, located partly within Roxbury, offers something many indoor attractions cannot — room to spread out. It’s Boston’s largest open space, and families can walk through wooded trails, visit open fields, or spend time near the playgrounds without feeling boxed in by crowds or noise. The park’s size makes it easier for children to reset and regulate between activities. 

Tip for families: Use shorter walking loops near the Playstead or Scarboro Pond if your child does better with predictable routes and visual landmarks. 

3. Museum of Science Hosts Sensory-Friendly Programs 

The Museum of Science in Boston offers accessibility resources and sensory-aware programming, including adjusted planetarium experiences and visitor guidance for families navigating sensory sensitivities. Staff provide information about louder exhibits and high-stimulation areas before families enter them. 

Tip for families: Skip the Theater of Electricity during peak hours if your child is sensitive to sudden sound. The exhibit can be intense even for some adults. 

4. Boston Public Library Offers Quiet Corners and Predictable Spaces 

The Boston Public Library’s Central Library in Copley Square gives families a calmer indoor option, especially during colder months or rainy weekends. Wide hallways, quieter reading areas, and flexible children’s spaces allow kids to move without constant pressure to stay still or silent. 

Tip for families: Visit during weekday mornings when the children’s areas tend to feel calmer and easier to navigate. 

5. Franklin Park Zoo Balances Activity With Space to Step Away 

Franklin Park Zoo can feel more manageable than larger destination zoos because families can move at their own pace and take breaks outdoors throughout the visit. Some indoor exhibits are louder than others, but shaded walking paths and open seating areas provide places to regroup. The zoo also appears on several regional sensory-friendly resource guides. 

Tip for families: Arrive close to opening time and begin with the outdoor exhibits before crowds build later in the day. 

Support Is Close to Home 

Finding places that feel manageable can help families spend more time together in the community and less time worrying about how their child will respond to a new environment. 

Looking for additional support for your child in Roxbury, Massachusetts? Behavioral Concepts (BCI), part of LEARN Behavioral, works with families across the Roxbury and Greater Boston area to help children build communication, social, and daily living skills that support everyday life at home, in school, and in the community. Learn more about BCI’s services and contact us today.   

What is the MassABA Annual Conference?

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The MassABA Annual Conference is the flagship event of the Massachusetts Association for Applied Behavior Analysis (MassABA), a trade organization representing the interests of behavior analysts across the Commonwealth. Founded in 2010, MassABA is an affiliated chapter of the Association for Behavior Analysis International (ABAI) and is dedicated to providing educational opportunities and advocacy for professionals who provide behavior-analytic services in any capacity.

Each year, the MassABA Annual Conference brings together behavior analysts, educators, researchers, and ABA service providers from across Massachusetts and beyond for a full day of professional development, continuing education, and community. The conference is the signature connection between MassABA and its more than 1,100 members — and has historically drawn over 700 participants.

Massachusetts is home to one of the highest concentrations of certified behavior analysts per capita in the world, with more than 4,500 BACB-certificants in the Commonwealth. The MassABA Annual Conference reflects the depth of the professional community, offering a focused, content-rich event that speaks directly to the issues shaping ABA practice in Massachusetts.

When is the MassABA Annual Conference?

The MassABA Annual Conference is typically held each spring, most often in May. The event is generally held at the Best Western Royal Plaza Hotel and Trade Center in Marlborough, Massachusetts, a centrally located venue accessible from Boston and across the Commonwealth. 

Attendees are encouraged to check the official MassABA events page for the most current schedule and registration details.

What Does LEARN Behavioral Do at MassABA?

LEARN Behavioral participates in the MassABA Annual Conference as part of its commitment to the behavior analysis community in Massachusetts and the broader New England region. The LEARN team attends the conference each year to engage with the clinical, legislative, and professional issues shaping ABA practice in the Commonwealth, connect with fellow providers, and contribute to the community of behavior analysts who serve children and families across Massachusetts.

At the MassABA Annual Conference, LEARN Behavioral typically:

  • Connects with BCBAs, educators, and ABA service providers across Massachusetts to share insights and best practices
  • Engages with sessions focused on Massachusetts-specific legislative updates, insurance policy, and licensure
  • Explores emerging research and clinical practice developments relevant to LEARN’s work with children with autism
  • Supports career development opportunities for behavior analysts seeking to grow within a national ABA organization
  • Participates in exhibiting and networking opportunities to share LEARN’s services and clinical approach with the Massachusetts ABA community

LEARN Behavioral’s involvement in the MassABA Annual Conference reflects its commitment to being an active, contributing member of the behavior analysis community in every state where it operates — not just a service provider, but a genuine participant in the professional ecosystem.

Who Attends the MassABA Annual Conference?

The MassABA Annual Conference draws a broad cross-section of the Massachusetts behavior analysis community. Attendees typically include:

  • Licensed applied behavior analysts (LABAs) practicing in Massachusetts
  • Board certified behavior analysts (BCBAs) and BCBA-Ds
  • Board certified assistant behavior analysts (BCaBAs)
  • Registered behavior technicians (RBTs)
  • BCBAs working in public school settings across the Commonwealth
  • Graduate students and doctoral candidates in ABA programs
  • University faculty and researchers
  • ABA therapy organizations and autism service providers
  • Special education teachers and school administrators
  • Advocates and policy professionals engaged with Massachusetts ABA legislation
  • Representatives from insurance companies and state agencies involved in ABA coverage

MassABA’s membership structure includes full members (licensed applied behavior analysts in Massachusetts), associate members (practitioners from other states, related professionals, and family or community members), and student members, making the conference welcoming to professionals at every stage of their career.

Topics Discussed at the MassABA Annual Conference

What makes the MassABA Annual Conference distinct from broader national events is its grounding in the specific legislative, regulatory, and clinical realities of practicing behavior analysis in Massachusetts. Sessions consistently address the issues that matter most to BCBAs and ABA organizations operating in the Commonwealth.

Key topics consistently featured at the MassABA Annual Conference include:

  • Massachusetts LABA licensure updates and the independent licensing board
  • Insurance coverage requirements and advocacy for ABA services in the Commonwealth
  • Compliance, audits, recoupments, and fraud prevention for ABA providers
  • ABA in public school settings and supports for BCBAs working in Massachusetts school districts
  • Evidence-based intervention and clinical best practices
  • Diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging (DEIB) in behavior analysis
  • Ethics in ABA practice and supervision
  • Telehealth delivery of ABA services and insurance coverage updates
  • Research trends and innovations across autism services
  • Staff supervision, training, and workforce development
  • Expanding access to ABA services for people of all ages and abilities in Massachusetts

Past featured presenters have included nationally recognized figures such as Dr. Robert Horner, Alumni-Knight Endowed Professor of Special Education, alongside Massachusetts-based clinicians and policy experts who have addressed the most pressing issues facing local practitioners.

Why Should You Attend the MassABA Annual Conference?

For behavior analysts and ABA professionals practicing in Massachusetts, the MassABA Annual Conference offers a level of local relevance and practical applicability that broad national conferences cannot replicate. Specific reasons to attend include:

  • Stay current on Massachusetts-specific licensure, insurance, and legislative developments that affect your practice
  • Earn CEUs included with your registration at no additional cost
  • Connect with over 700 fellow behavior analysts and ABA professionals from across the Commonwealth
  • Engage with sessions on public school ABA, a unique and growing area of practice in Massachusetts
  • Explore exhibitor and sponsor opportunities relevant to the Massachusetts ABA market
  • Participate in a focused, single-day format designed to fit the schedule of working clinicians
  • Contribute to the advocacy efforts that shape the future of ABA practice in Massachusetts

Highlights from Past MassABA Conferences

Since its founding in 2010, MassABA has built a track record of delivering a high-quality annual conference that addresses the issues facing behavior analysts in Massachusetts. Consistently drawing more than 700 attendees, the conference has evolved alongside the Commonwealth’s ABA community.

Past MassABA Annual Conference highlights include:

  • Sessions on Massachusetts insurance mandate laws and ABA coverage, including practical guidance on responding to recoupments, audits, and fraud investigations
  • Featured presentations from nationally recognized researchers and clinicians, including Dr. Robert Horner of the University of Oregon
  • Updates from MassABA’s legislative committee on the ongoing effort to create an independent licensing board for behavior analysts in Massachusetts
  • Dedicated content for BCBAs working in public school districts, addressing some of the most complex and underserved practice contexts in the Commonwealth
  • DEIB-focused programming and MassABA’s active Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging committee initiatives
  • Continuing education (CE) series and workshops on successful ABA service delivery, telehealth, and expanding access to services

MassABA Annual Conference Key Takeaways

  • The MassABA Annual Conference is the signature annual event of the Massachusetts Association for Applied Behavior Analysis, serving more than 1,100 members and drawing over 700 attendees each spring
  • MassABA was founded in 2010 and is an affiliated chapter of ABAI, with a mission to support the science and practice of behavior analysis in Massachusetts
  • The one-day format delivers a focused, high-value experience, including keynote programming, exhibiting, networking, and CEUs included with registration
  • Topics reflect the specific legislative, regulatory, and clinical landscape of practicing ABA in Massachusetts, including licensure, insurance, public school settings, and DEIB
  • LEARN Behavioral participates in the MassABA Annual Conference as an active member of the Massachusetts ABA community

FAQs: What People Ask About the MassABA Annual Conference

What is MassABA?

MassABA, the Massachusetts Association for Applied Behavior Analysis, is a trade organization founded in 2010 to represent the interests of behavior analysts in Massachusetts. 

It is an affiliated chapter of the Association for Behavior Analysis International (ABAI) and serves more than 1,100 members across the Commonwealth. MassABA advocates on legislative and insurance issues, supports professional development, and hosts an annual conference as the centerpiece of its membership community.

What is the difference between MassABA and BABAT?

Both MassABA and BABAT (Massachusetts Professionals in Behavior Analysis) are Massachusetts-based ABA organizations, but they serve distinct purposes. Many Massachusetts behavior analysts are members of both organizations. The MassABA Annual Conference is typically a single-day spring event, while BABAT’s conference spans multiple days in the fall.

MassABA functions as a trade organization focused on advocacy, licensure, and insurance policy — representing behavior analysts’ professional and regulatory interests at the state level. BABAT operates as a chapter-based professional community with a broader clinical and research focus, hosting a multi-day annual conference each fall. 

What does LABA stand for, and what does MassABA have to do with it?

LABA stands for Licensed Applied Behavior Analyst. It is the state license required to practice behavior analysis in Massachusetts. MassABA has been a leading advocate for strengthening the LABA licensure process in the Commonwealth, including ongoing efforts to establish an independent licensing board comprised exclusively of behavior analysts, rather than a multi-disciplinary board. 

The MassABA Annual Conference regularly includes sessions covering licensure updates, and MassABA works directly with state legislators on ABA-related bills.

Is MassABA affiliated with ABAI?

Yes. MassABA is an affiliated chapter of the Association for Behavior Analysis International (ABAI), the world’s largest professional organization dedicated to the science and practice of behavior analysis. 

This affiliation reflects MassABA’s commitment to upholding the standards and values of the broader behavior analysis field while addressing the specific needs of behavior analysts practicing in Massachusetts.

What membership types does MassABA offer?

MassABA offers three membership levels. Full membership is available to licensed applied behavior analysts (LABAs) in Massachusetts. Associate membership is open to practicing behavior analysts who are not licensed in Massachusetts, professionals from related fields, and family or community members. 

Student membership is available for undergraduate or graduate students enrolled in ABA or related programs and is offered at a nominal annual fee. Organizations providing ABA services can become MassABA Organizational Sponsors and receive benefits, including discounted employee registrations for the annual conference and exhibitor access.

What is MassABA’s Public School Committee?

MassABA’s Public School Committee focuses specifically on the needs of BCBAs working in Massachusetts public school districts — one of the most complex and rapidly growing practice contexts in the state. 

The committee partners with ACCEPT Collaborative to host a monthly Professional Practices Symposium for behavior analysts working in public schools, running throughout the school year. 

The annual conference includes dedicated sessions addressing the unique challenges facing school-based BCBAs across the Commonwealth, including supervision structures, Individualized Education Plan (IEP) collaboration, and ethical practice in educational settings.

How does MassABA support insurance advocacy for ABA providers?

MassABA has been an active advocate for expanding and protecting insurance coverage for ABA services in Massachusetts. The organization has worked to inform its membership about ABA insurance mandate laws, the provider’s evolving role in the insurance landscape, and how to navigate audits, recoupments, and claim denials. 

It has also collaborated with state insurance representatives, BABAT, and other stakeholders to push for timely reimbursement and fair coverage standards. The annual conference regularly features sessions on insurance policy and compliance in response to member needs.

How is the MassABA Conference different from ABAI or BABAT?

The ABAI Annual Convention is a global event covering the full breadth of behavior analysis science and practice across dozens of countries. BABAT’s conference is a multi-day regional event with a strong clinical and research focus, held each fall in Massachusetts. 

The MassABA Annual Conference is a single-day spring event with a distinctly Massachusetts-centric lens, prioritizing licensure updates, state insurance policy, public school ABA, and advocacy for the Commonwealth’s behavior analyst community. It is the most locally focused ABA conference available to Massachusetts practitioners.

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.

5 Sensory-Friendly Spots to Visit in Fall River, Massachusetts 

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For many families, getting out the door takes planning. Noise builds quickly. Lighting can feel harsh. Crowded spaces can overwhelm children who process sensory input differently.  

What feels like a simple outing for one family can feel exhausting for another. 

That is where sensory-friendly places come in. These are spaces that are designed to reduce overload. They tend to be quieter. They avoid harsh lighting. They allow people to move at their own pace, take breaks, or leave early when needed.  

For children who process sensory input differently, those small shifts can make the difference between managing an outing and feeling overwhelmed. 

Often, these places are not necessarily labeled “sensory friendly.” Families find them by noticing where their children feel calm and stay engaged. In Fall River, several everyday public spaces fit that description. They allow families to slow down and find outings that fit their needs. 

Fall River Heritage State Park

1. Fall River Heritage State Park gives families room to breathe 

Fall River Heritage State Park sits along the Taunton River and offers wide paths, open space, and steady views of the water. Families can walk a little, stop often, or sit and watch boats go by. The setting does not change much, which can help children who do better with consistency. There is also no pressure to do anything specific. Families can stay for a few minutes or longer and leave when it feels right. 

Tip for Families: Keep visits short and go earlier in the day, when the park is usually quieter. 

Battleship Cove

2. Battleship Cove lets families set the pace 

Battleship Cove is a landmark that features historic naval ships and exhibits. Some indoor areas feel narrow or busy, but families can take Battleship Cove one section at a time. It is easy to step outside between exhibits, which helps break up the visit. Outdoor decks and waterfront areas give kids a chance to reset before deciding whether to keep going. 

Tip for Families: Go early and start outside. If your child seems comfortable, head inside and take it one area at a time. Step back out whenever you need to.  

girl at library

3. The Fall River Public Library offers quiet and structure 

Libraries work for many families because the rules are simple and consistent. Voices stay low, spaces remain organized, and the pace stays calm. That alone can make a difference. The Fall River Public Library offers seating, children’s areas, and an environment that feels steady from visit to visit. For children who do better when they know what to expect, that predictability can help them settle.  

Tip for Families: Visit during quieter hours and ask staff where the calmest seating areas are. Weekday mornings are often easier than afternoons. 

Fall River Children's Museum

4. The Fall River Children’s Museum offers structured play 

The Fall River Children’s Museum at Marine Museum provides interactive exhibits designed for young children. While it gets busy at times, weekday mornings tend to be calmer. The layout is contained and easy to navigate, which helps families define clear beginnings and endings to visits. 

Tip for Families: Choose an exhibit for hands-on exploration. Move at your own pace, and look for a quieter corner if you need to slow down. 

Fall River Heritage State Park

5. Waterfront paths make it easy to pause or leave 

The riverfront paths near downtown runs and offers something many families look for: space without pressure. Families can walk, stop, and watch the water without playground noise or organized activities, pulling attention in different directions. The open layout makes a difference. There is no single route to follow and no reason to push forward if a child needs a break. For some children, the steady movement of the water and the familiar view can help them stay regulated. 

Tip for Families: Look at the park or city calendar before you go. Events and festivals can bring crowds and noise and change the feel of the space. 

Support Beyond Outings 

Public spaces matter. So do the routines families build at home. 

For more ideas, visit our blog on 5 Simple Play Ideas for easy, sensory-friendly activities at home. 

Looking for additional support for your child in Fall River, Massachusetts? At Behavioral Concepts (BCI), part of LEARN Behavioral, we use science and data to deliver contemporary applied behavior analysis therapy. Services reflect each child’s needs, interests, and personality. Learn more about BCI’s services and contact us today. 

New Autism Learning Center Opens Doors in Quincy, MA

Updated On

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.