4893 East Beltline Ave NE Suite 310 Grand Rapids, MI 49525
About Us
Building a better world through applied behavioral science
Our mission is to provide Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapeutic interventions in the home, at our center, and in the community for residents of West Michigan. Applied behavior analysis uses best practice approaches as developed by peer reviewed literature to improve language and social skills, and curb problem behaviors for children with autism.
Client Centered Treatment
The Applied Behavioral Science Institution consists of a small staff of highly trained professionals that take a personal interest in our client's development. Our professional approach to developing and implementing behavioral treatment is setting a new standard for behavioral interventions in the West Michigan region.
Our Promise
Our staff is trained in the implementation of Behavior Intervention Plans that use Positive Reinforcement to facilitate behavior change. We currently use the VB-MAPP, ABLLS, PEAK, and AFLS assessments to guide curriculum. All of our staff are also trained in or Professional Crisis Management, and we are eager to take on problem behaviors that many other organizations turn away. Our view is that every child deserves the opportunity for the best treatment available.
What does our model look like?
Therapy in the Home Environment
Receiving therapy in the home environment is an option for anyone where this model would be appropriate. Therapy in the home environment involves structured and personalized interventions designed to improve a child’s social, communication, and behavioral skills within familiar surroundings. A trained therapist works one-on-one with the child, using positive reinforcement techniques to encourage desired behaviors and reduce challenging ones. Sessions typically include activities tailored to the child’s developmental needs, such as practicing language, improving social interactions, and building daily living skills. Parents and caregivers are often actively involved, learning strategies to reinforce progress and maintain consistency outside therapy sessions. The home setting allows the therapy to be directly integrated into the child’s daily routine, promoting practical skill application and generalization.
Therapy in Center
Receiving therapy in our center is an option for anyone where this model would be appropriate. Therapy in an ABA center provides a structured and controlled environment tailored to meet the developmental and behavioral needs of our clients. Trained therapists work one-on-one or in small groups using evidence-based techniques to target skills like communication, social interaction, and adaptive behaviors. The center is equipped with specialized materials and designated spaces for focused activities, play, and learning. Sessions are highly individualized, following a custom treatment plan based on the child’s specific goals. The center-based setting allows for controlled teaching opportunities, exposure to peer interactions, and a distraction-free environment conducive to learning. Regular progress tracking and collaboration with parents or caregivers ensure consistency and continuity in the therapy process.
Therapy In the Community
Receiving therapy in the community is an option for anyone where this model would be appropriate. Therapy in the community focuses on teaching and reinforcing skills in real-world settings, such as schools, sports practices, camps, or other everyday environments. A therapist works with the individual to address goals like improving social interactions, communication, and adaptive behaviors in naturally occurring situations. For example, in schools, the therapist may help the child follow classroom routines or engage with peers, while at a sports practice or camp, the focus could be on teamwork, turn-taking, or managing emotions. This approach emphasizes skill generalization, enabling the individual to apply learned behaviors across different contexts. By addressing challenges as they arise in real time, community-based ABA therapy helps build practical, lifelong skills while promoting greater independence and integration into various aspects of daily life.
When do we provide services?
We choose the model or models that work best for you and your situation. You don't have to stick with just one, sometimes all three could be relevant to your situation. The hours we currently offer services are as follows:
In Home/Community In Center
Sundays 7am-9pm Sundays 1pm-4pm
Mondays 7am-9pm Mondays 8am-7:30pm
Tuesdays 7am-9pm Tuesdays 8am-7:30pm
Wednesdays 7am-9pm Wednesdays 8am-7:30pm
Thursdays 7am-9pm Thursdays 8am-7:30pm
Fridays 7am-9pm Fridays 8am-7:30pm
Saturdays 7am-9pm Saturdays N/A
*Other appointment times can be arranged as necessary for situations like bedtime routines or getting kids ready for school
We operate year-round and are open every day, with the exception of the nine holidays listed. We also remain open during inclement weather unless there is a state emergency declaration.
Closed on the following holidays: New Year's Day, Easter Day, Memorial Day, Juneteenth, Independence Day, Labor Day, Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Eve Day, and Christmas Day.