What therapeutic approaches are included in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA)?

ABA is an umbrella term for many evidence-based therapeutic approaches. At Moving Mountains ABA, we utilize a personalized mix of methods including Natural Environment Teaching (NET), Pivotal Response Training (PRT), Functional Communication Training (FCT), and Discrete Trial Training (DTT).

How do your therapeutic approaches specifically benefit a child with autism?

Our approaches are designed to improve communication, increase social and play skills, enhance daily living skills, and decrease challenging behaviors by teaching appropriate replacement skills. The specific method used is always matched to the child's individual need and learning style.

Does the use of specific ABA approaches aim to "cure" autism?

No. Our therapy approaches do not aim to cure autism. The goal of our various methods is to teach functional, meaningful skills and provide supports that allow individuals to live the highest quality of life possible, respecting and supporting their unique neurodivergent identity.

What is the philosophy of Moving Mountains ABA regarding neurodiversity in relation to your methods?

We approach neurodiversity with respect and affirmation. We combine the rigor of evidence-based ABA methods with compassionate, child-centered care that emphasizes a child's strengths, interests, and inherent worth.

What is Assent-Based Care, and how does it influence your choice of approaches?

Assent-Based Care means we respect the child’s voice and choices throughout the session. We prioritize approaches like PRT and NET, which are highly engaging and motivating, ensuring the child willingly participates and has control over their learning environment.

How is my child's therapy approach truly individualized?

Every program begins with an individualized assessment by a BCBA that identifies unique strengths and needs. The specific therapy approaches and goals are chosen based on their functional significance to the child’s specific life, not a standardized curriculum.

What age range of children do you provide ABA services for in New Hampshire?

Moving Mountains ABA primarily provides services to children and adolescents with autism and related developmental disabilities. Please contact us to discuss the specific age range supported by our current New Hampshire programs.

Can these specific therapeutic approaches be effective for individuals without an autism diagnosis?

Yes, ABA principles and methods like DTT and FCT are universally effective for teaching new skills and managing behavior across various populations and goals, including those with other developmental delays or specific learning challenges.

Is ABA therapy compatible with other services, like Speech or Occupational Therapy?

Absolutely. We highly encourage collaboration and coordination of care with other providers (SLPs, OTs, educators) to ensure consistency in implementing therapeutic approaches and maximize your child's overall progress across all environments.

How do you incorporate the child's interests into your chosen therapeutic approaches?

We use the child's established interests (toys, characters, activities) as powerful motivators and reinforcers. By integrating them into methods like NET and PRT, we make learning meaningful and enjoyable.

What are the long-term goals of using these varied ABA approaches for my child?

The long-term goals are to foster meaningful independence, effective communication, strong self-advocacy skills, and the ability to access and thrive within their community and chosen life settings, using the skills learned through our approaches.

What is the difference between Discrete Trial Training (DTT) and Natural Environment Teaching (NET)?

DTT is highly structured and conducted one-on-one, breaking skills into small, isolated steps. NET is conducted during play or routines in the child's natural environment, allowing skills to generalize instantly.

Where are the ABA therapy sessions conducted (home, school, community)?

We are a service-area business and conduct sessions primarily in the child's home and natural community environments across New Hampshire. School and community-based sessions are implemented as appropriate for skill generalization and based on treatment goals.

What is Natural Environment Teaching (NET), and how often is it used?

NET is teaching skills within the context of play, daily routines, and functional activities (e.g., teaching communication during snack time). We prioritize NET because it leads to skills generalizing and being used naturally in the real world.

How does Discrete Trial Training (DTT) help a child learn new skills?

DTT is a structured, one-on-one teaching method where complex skills are broken into small, manageable steps. This highly systematic approach is effective for teaching foundational skills like matching, labeling, and focused attention.

What is Pivotal Response Training (PRT), and what "pivotal" skills does it target?

PRT is a play-based, child-centered approach that targets pivotal areas of development like motivation, self-initiation, responsiveness to cues, and self-management. Improving these core skills leads to widespread improvements in language and social skills.

How is Functional Communication Training (FCT) used to address challenging behaviors?

FCT is a critical strategy that identifies the function (the "why") of a challenging behavior (like a tantrum) and replaces it with a functional, appropriate communication skill (e.g., asking for a break or a desired item).

Can you provide an example of Task Analysis & Chaining for a self-care skill?

For example, Task Analysis breaks 'brushing teeth' into small steps (e.g., 1. Get toothbrush, 2. Get toothpaste, 3. Wet brush). Chaining teaches those steps in a specific sequence (forward or backward) until the full skill is mastered independently.

How do you use Positive Behavior Supports (PBS) to manage and reduce challenging behavior?

PBS focuses on prevention. We identify the triggers and function of a behavior and proactively teach new, positive replacement skills, modify the environment, and implement reinforcement strategies to make the challenging behavior unnecessary.

What if my child resists participating in a therapy activity?

We pivot immediately. Resistance is a signal. Our assent-based approach means we either change the activity, offer an appropriate choice, or take a short break to ensure the child feels safe and maintains motivation before re-engaging.

How do you ensure my child's assent is maintained throughout the session?

Our Registered Behavior Technicians (RBTs) are trained to continuously monitor for clear signs of assent (engagement, positive body language) and dissent (fidgeting, avoidance). We use high rates of positive reinforcement and offer frequent choices.

How is communication and language development supported in the therapy program?

We use a functional approach, teaching communication skills that get the child's needs met, often incorporating FCT, NET, and PRT. This includes speech, sign language, picture exchange, or communication devices (AAC) based on the child's profile.

Does the therapy program address social skills and play skills?

Yes. We teach social referencing, imitation, turn-taking, sharing, cooperative play, and understanding social cues in natural settings, often in the presence of siblings or peers when appropriate.

How do you transition a child from one activity or skill to the next?

We use positive transition strategies like visual schedules, transition songs, clear verbal warnings, and providing reinforcement immediately upon completing a successful transition to minimize stress and resistance.

How do you make therapy sessions fun and engaging?

We embed learning within the child's play, use highly motivating reinforcers, ensure the child is successful often, and maintain a fast-paced, positive, and enthusiastic interaction style, keeping the child at the center of the session.

How do you handle and prevent therapist burnout for the child?

We ensure a balanced schedule with frequent breaks, vary the teaching methods, constantly change the reinforcement, and follow the child's motivation (assent) to ensure the sessions remain positive and are not overly demanding.

How does the program address independence and daily living skills?

We focus on essential adaptive skills such as dressing, hygiene (hand-washing, toileting), self-feeding, and chores, using Task Analysis and Chaining to teach these complex skills step-by-step.

Who will be working directly with my child (RBT, BCBA)?

Your child will primarily work with a Registered Behavior Technician (RBT), who implements the individualized treatment plan. The RBT is supervised directly by a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA), who designs and modifies the plan.

What are the qualifications and certifications of your Board Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBAs)?

Our BCBAs hold a master's or doctoral degree, have completed extensive supervised fieldwork, and passed the rigorous national certification exam administered by the Behavior Analyst Certification Board (BACB). They maintain their certification through ongoing continuing education.

How often will the BCBA directly supervise my child's therapy sessions?

BCBA supervision is provided frequently, in accordance with both BACB ethical requirements and insurance standards, typically consisting of direct observation, team meetings, and dedicated parent coaching sessions.

What is Parent & Caregiver Coaching, and how often is it provided?

Parent coaching is a dedicated time for the BCBA to work directly with caregivers. It is essential for generalization and is typically scheduled weekly or bi-weekly to teach you the strategies used in therapy, ensuring consistency outside of sessions.

What is the process for the initial assessment to create the treatment plan?

The initial assessment involves a comprehensive evaluation by a BCBA, including direct observation of your child, interviews with you, and standardized assessments (such as the VB-MAPP or ABLLS-R) to identify functional needs and inform goal development.

How is progress measured in ABA therapy?

Progress is measured daily by the RBTs through objective data collection (e.g., frequency counts, duration, and percentage of correct responses). This data is graphed and analyzed by the BCBA to make data-driven decisions about the program's effectiveness.

How often will I receive progress reports and clinical updates?

Formal, comprehensive clinical progress reports are typically provided every 90 days (or according to your funding source's requirements) to review data, summarize achievements, and propose updates to the treatment plan.

What happens if my child is not making progress on a specific goal?

If progress plateaus, the BCBA immediately analyzes the data. They will modify the teaching procedures, change the motivators, or break the skill down into smaller steps to ensure the child starts progressing again.

How often are the therapy goals and treatment plans re-evaluated?

The treatment plan is formally reviewed and re-authorized with your involvement and your funding source every 6 months, though the BCBA reviews the data and makes adjustments to individual goals on a daily/weekly basis.

How is consistency ensured when multiple RBTs work with my child?

Consistency is ensured through precise, written protocols in the treatment plan, detailed shift notes, and direct BCBA supervision. All RBTs are trained to implement the plan exactly as written.

How is my input as a parent incorporated into the goal-setting process?

Your input is the highest priority. Goals are chosen in collaboration with you to ensure they are meaningful, functional, and aligned with your family's values and priorities for your child's life at home and in the community.

What is your policy for collaboration with my child's school or other therapists (SLP/OT)?

We maintain a policy of open communication, with written parent consent, to share relevant data and coordinate strategies with all members of your child's care team to promote skill generalization across all settings.

What are signs that ABA therapy is working for my child?

Signs include a measurable increase in functional communication and social interactions, a decrease in challenging behaviors, an increase in independence, and greater engagement and happiness during learning and daily routines.

What is the process to enroll or start services with Moving Mountains ABA?

Step 1: Call or submit our online inquiry form. Step 2: We verify your insurance benefits. Step 3: We obtain a prescription/referral from your doctor. Step 4: A BCBA completes the initial assessment and treatment plan. Step 5: Services begin!

How long is the waitlist for starting services in New Hampshire?

Wait times can vary based on your location and availability of qualified RBTs. We prioritize urgent cases and strive to provide an accurate estimate of the expected start date once your insurance benefits have been verified.

How many hours per week of ABA therapy will my child need?

The prescribed hours are determined by the BCBA based on the assessment, the child's age, and the severity of their needs, usually ranging from 10 to 40 hours per week. This will be detailed in the initial treatment plan.

Will my health insurance cover ABA therapy in New Hampshire?

Yes. Thanks to New Hampshire state mandates, most private and group health insurance plans sold in the state are required to provide coverage for the diagnosis and treatment of Autism Spectrum Disorder, which includes ABA therapy.

Do you accept Medicaid or state-funded programs for ABA services?

Please contact us directly with your specific plan details. We work with various insurance providers, including many Medicaid managed care organizations, to ensure access to care.

What is the New Hampshire state law regarding mandated coverage for autism treatment?

New Hampshire state law (RSA 417-E) mandates coverage for the diagnosis and treatment of autism spectrum disorders, including medically necessary behavioral health treatments like ABA, for children up to age 21.

Will Moving Mountains ABA help me verify my insurance benefits and coverage?

Absolutely. Our dedicated administrative team will handle the full verification process, contact your insurance provider, and provide you with an estimate of your coverage and financial responsibility before services begin.

What are my potential out-of-pocket costs (copays, deductibles, coinsurance)?

Your specific costs (copays, deductibles, co-insurance) depend entirely on your individual insurance plan. We will review your plan's details with you after benefit verification to give you a clear estimate of your financial responsibility.

What is your policy for session cancellations or rescheduling?

We require advance notice for cancellations, typically 24 hours, as we reserve time for your child. Consistent attendance is crucial for progress, and our policy will be clearly outlined in your initial service agreement.

What kind of safety and background checks do you perform on your clinical staff?

The safety of your child is our priority. All RBTs and BCBAs undergo thorough state and federal background checks, reference checks, and verification of all professional certifications (BACB) before working with clients.

Our ABA Therapy Approaches in New Hampshire

Personalized therapy that helps children learn, grow, and thrive.

At Moving Mountains ABA, every service we provide is built on the foundation of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) — a proven, evidence-based therapy for children with autism. What makes us unique is how we deliver ABA: through individualized plans, compassionate care, and approaches that emphasize your child’s strengths, interests, and choices.

Get Started

Call (603) 310-1850

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ABA Therapy & Individualized Plans

No two children are the same. Every program begins with an individualized treatment plan designed by a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) and delivered by a trained Registered Behavior Technician (RBT). These plans focus on meaningful goals that create progress at home, in school, and in the community. Our individualized plans:

Identify strengths as well as areas of need
Break down skills into teachable steps
Use reinforcement that is motivating and respectful
Involve parents and caregivers at every stage

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Assent-Based Care

We believe therapy should always respect the child’s voice. Assent-based care ensures children are engaged willingly, feel safe, and are motivated to participate. Assent-based care helps children:

Build confidence by having choices in their learning
Stay motivated because therapy is meaningful and enjoyable
Develop trust with their care team
Learn self-advocacy skills that last a lifetime

Natural Environment Teaching (NET)

Children learn best in the places they live, play, and grow. NET takes therapy into everyday environments so skills generalize naturally. NET helps children:

Practice communication during play, meals, and family routines
Apply new skills in community settings like stores or parks
Build independence in daily life
Learn through fun, meaningful activities

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Pivotal Response Training (PRT)

PRT is a play-based, child-centered approach that targets pivotal areas of development like motivation and self-initiation. By focusing on these core skills, children gain tools that affect many areas of life. PRT helps children:

Increase motivation to learn and engage
Initiate communication and social interactions
Improve flexibility during play and routines
Strengthen social and language skills simultaneously

Functional Communication Training (FCT)

FCT replaces challenging behaviors with functional communication. By teaching effective ways to express needs, we reduce frustration and create healthier interactions. FCT helps children:

Communicate wants and needs clearly
Reduce reliance on behaviors like tantrums or aggression
Use speech, signs, pictures, or AAC devices effectively
Build confidence through successful communication

Discrete Trial Training (DTT)

DTT is a structured, one-on-one teaching method that breaks complex skills into smaller, manageable steps. Each step is taught, practiced, and reinforced until mastered. DTT helps children:

Learn new academic and daily living skills systematically
Build attention and focus through short, clear lessons
Gain confidence through repeated success
Progress at an individualized pace

Task Analysis & Chaining

Complex tasks like brushing teeth or making a meal can feel overwhelming. Task analysis breaks them down into steps, and chaining teaches those steps in sequence until the full skill is mastered. Task analysis & chaining help children:

Learn self-care and daily living routines
Master multi-step academic and home tasks
Build independence one step at a time
Reduce frustration by celebrating small wins

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Positive Behavior Supports (PBS)

PBS identifies the reasons behind challenging behaviors and focuses on teaching safer, more effective ways to meet the same needs. PBS helps children:

Reduce behaviors that interfere with learning or safety
Learn proactive replacement skills
Develop positive coping strategies
Thrive in home, school, and community settings

Parent & Caregiver Coaching

Lasting progress happens when families are empowered. We equip parents and caregivers with tools to reinforce skills, manage challenges, and create consistency outside of sessions. Parent & caregiver coaching helps families:

Use strategies that extend learning into daily life
Respond consistently to behaviors across settings
Build confidence in supporting their child’s progress
Strengthen family routines with less stress

Evidence-Based and Compassionate

Evidence with empathy at its core.

ABA is backed by decades of research and endorsed by organizations such as the American Academy of Pediatrics and the National Autism Center. At Moving Mountains ABA, we combine that research with a compassionate, child-centered philosophy to ensure therapy is effective, ethical, and family-focused.If you are seeking ABA therapy in New Hampshire, Moving Mountains ABA is here to help. Learn more about our individualized approaches or start the referral process today.