When You Feel Like Giving Up: Finding Hope Through ABA Therapy
Reece Epstein • July 17, 2025
Finding Hope with ABA Therapy for Autism Help

There are days you wake up hopeful… and then there are days where everything feels like too much.
You’ve tried to stay calm during the meltdowns. You’ve rearranged your life for therapy sessions.
And still, your child may hit, scream, or withdraw. You’re exhausted, overwhelmed, and secretly asking yourself: Is it even working?
First, take a deep breath.
You’re not alone. And no, you’re not failing.
Every parent of a child with autism has moments of doubt. But here’s the truth—real progress is possible. And ABA therapy (Applied Behavior Analysis) has helped thousands of families just like yours find hope again.
What Is ABA Therapy—and Why Does It Matter?
ABA therapy is more than just a strategy. It’s a lifeline for families navigating autism. Through structured, science-backed techniques, ABA helps children with autism learn critical life skills, reduce challenging behaviors, and become more independent.
At Able Minds ABA, we offer ABA therapy in Maryland that’s flexible, personalized, and built with your family in mind. Whether it’s teaching your child how to communicate without aggression, or helping you manage stressful routines, ABA gives you tools—and hope—you can count on.
Why It’s Okay to Feel Overwhelmed
Caring for a child with autism is one of the most selfless, demanding jobs in the world. It’s okay to feel:
- Drained
- Confused
- Burnt out
- Guilty for needing a break
But don’t mistake exhaustion for defeat.
If you feel like giving up, it’s probably because you’ve been giving everything.
The good news? You don’t have to do this alone. With ABA services in Maryland, support is within reach—and change is possible.
What Real Hope Looks Like
Hope doesn’t mean perfection. It doesn’t mean your child suddenly stops stimming, stops screaming, or becomes easy to handle overnight.
Hope means progress—small, steady steps in the right direction.
Like:
- The first time your child makes eye contact.
- A full day without a meltdown.
- Hearing them say “help” instead of hitting.
- Watching them play with a sibling for five quiet minutes.
These are victories. And with in-home ABA therapy, these wins become more common—because the therapy is happening in your child’s real world, with real support.
In-Home ABA Therapy: Support Where You Need It Most
Leaving home can be overwhelming for many children with autism. The lights, the noise, the transitions—it’s all a lot. That’s why Able Minds ABA offers in-home ABA therapy across Maryland.
Benefits include:
- Therapy in a familiar, comfortable space
- Direct coaching for parents and caregivers
- Custom plans based on real household routines
- Better generalization of learned skills
If you’re searching for in-home ABA therapy near me, know that you’re just one step away from getting support right at your doorstep.
When Progress Feels Too Slow…
ABA is not a quick fix.
Sometimes it takes weeks—or months—to see big changes. And in that gap, frustration grows.
But remember: growth isn’t always visible right away.
Just like planting a seed, the work happens underground first. Then, one day, something small breaks through—and from there, it grows faster and stronger.
Here’s what we tell families:
- Trust the process.
- Ask your ABA therapist questions.
- Celebrate the little wins (they matter!).
- Be kind to yourself.
The journey is long, but you’re not walking it alone.
How Able Minds ABA Supports Families (Not Just Kids)
We believe therapy should support the entire family—because autism doesn’t affect just one person.
That’s why our ABA services in Maryland include:
Parent & Caregiver Training
We’ll coach you through routines, responses, and behavior plans so you feel confident—not confused—at home.
Proactive Communication
You’ll never be left guessing. Our therapists keep you informed, involved, and empowered.
Initial Assessments
We begin with a full evaluation to understand your child’s strengths, challenges, and goals—so every plan is built just for them.
Insurance Support
From verification to billing, we handle the paperwork, so you can focus on your child—not the phone calls.
What If My Child Is Nonverbal or Has Severe Behaviors?
ABA therapy works for children of all ability levels. Whether your child is nonverbal, highly sensitive, or shows intense aggression, we tailor therapy to your child—not the other way around.
At Able Minds ABA, we’ve helped children:
- Learn to use picture systems (PECS)
- Communicate using speech-generating devices
- Replace aggression with calmer requests
- Reduce self-harming behaviors
- Gain independence in daily tasks
So even when it feels hopeless—there is always a way forward.
What to Do When You’re on the Verge of Giving Up
Here’s a small, powerful checklist for when you feel like you can’t keep going:
- Breathe. This moment doesn’t define your journey.
- Reach out to your ABA team. We’re here for you—not just your child.
- Celebrate one win today. Even a calm minute counts.
- Let go of perfection. Progress > perfection.
- Remember why you started. Love brought you here. Let hope carry you forward.
Join a Team That Cares (If You’re a BCBA or RBT)
Looking to build a meaningful career in ABA?
We’re hiring compassionate professionals across Maryland. At Able Minds ABA, we support our team with:
- Flexible schedules
- Supportive leadership
- A mission that matters
- Room to grow
Apply now if you're seeking BCBA jobs near me or RBT jobs near me that actually value you.
Your Child’s Potential Is Still Within Reach
You may feel tired. Discouraged. Unsure.
But please, don’t give up—not on your child, not on yourself.
At Able Minds ABA, we’ve walked beside hundreds of families who once felt the exact same way. And together, we’ve seen incredible change.
If you’re ready for real help, real compassion, and real growth—we’re here.
Let’s take that next hopeful step together.
Call to Action
Ready to get started?
Schedule your consultation today and let Able Minds ABA be the support your family deserves.
FAQs
Can ABA therapy really help if my child has severe behavior issues?
Yes, ABA therapy is highly effective for children with significant behavioral challenges, including aggression, self-injury, and noncompliance. The goal is to understand why the behavior is happening and teach better ways to respond. With consistent support, structured routines, and the right reinforcement techniques, many children make impressive progress. At Able Minds ABA, our therapists build realistic, personalized strategies that fit each child’s needs and your family’s goals.
What does in-home ABA therapy involve?
In-home ABA therapy means your child receives personalized behavioral support in the comfort of your own home. It allows therapists to work in real-world settings—like the kitchen, bedroom, or backyard—where behaviors naturally occur. This approach makes it easier to build routines, reduce triggers, and generalize skills. Families often find it less stressful than traveling to clinics. Able Minds ABA proudly offers in-home ABA therapy in Maryland to meet families where they are.
How long does it take to see results with ABA therapy?
Every child responds differently to therapy, but many families notice early signs of improvement within a few weeks—like better communication or fewer outbursts. Long-term gains often take several months to a year of consistent, tailored therapy. ABA is a gradual process focused on real, sustainable growth. Progress might seem slow at first, but over time, you’ll see meaningful changes that truly matter in daily life.
What should I do if I feel like giving up on my child’s therapy?
Feeling overwhelmed is completely normal—and it doesn't mean you're failing. Caregiving can be emotionally and physically exhausting, especially when progress feels slow. That’s when it’s most important to reach out to your ABA provider for support and collaboration. At Able Minds ABA, we work closely with families to adjust therapy plans, provide reassurance, and help you rediscover hope and strength. You're not in this alone—we're here every step of the way.
Does ABA therapy help nonverbal children?
Yes, ABA therapy is especially valuable for nonverbal children. Therapists use evidence-based communication methods like PECS (Picture Exchange Communication System), sign language, or speech-generating devices. These tools reduce frustration and allow children to express wants, needs, and feelings more clearly. Over time, many nonverbal children develop the ability to initiate requests or participate more actively at home and school. ABA services in Maryland focus on functional communication as a key to growth.
Can parents be involved in ABA therapy sessions?
Definitely. In fact, parent involvement is one of the most powerful tools for progress. Through caregiver training, you’ll learn to reinforce skills your child is practicing, respond to behaviors with confidence, and become a consistent part of their support system. At Able Minds ABA, we treat parents as partners—not bystanders. The more engaged you are, the more likely your child will maintain and generalize skills across environments.

Choosing the right ABA therapy provider is a crucial step toward helping your child achieve greater independence, improved communication, and better social skills. In Maryland, families are fortunate to have a growing number of options for applied behavior analysis therapy , but with so many choices, it can be overwhelming to know where to begin. Whether your child has just received a diagnosis or you’re transitioning between providers, selecting the best fit means looking beyond the surface. The right provider offers not just therapy sessions—but compassionate care, individualized plans, and a team committed to your child’s long-term success. What Is Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) Therapy? Applied behavior analysis therapy is a science-backed intervention that focuses on understanding and improving behaviors. It’s particularly effective for children who face developmental and behavioral challenges, such as autism. ABA breaks down complex skills into manageable steps and uses positive reinforcement to help children master those skills. A certified applied behavior analyst therapist develops personalized programs tailored to each child's strengths, challenges, and goals. Over time, ABA can help build critical life skills such as communication, emotional regulation, cooperation, and self-help. Why Finding the Right ABA Provider in Maryland Matters Not all ABA therapy providers offer the same level of care. In a state like Maryland—with diverse communities from Baltimore to Silver Spring to Annapolis—parents must carefully evaluate local providers based on their approach, credentials, and experience. Choosing the right partner for your child’s development ensures: Faster progress through tailored interventions Stronger collaboration between family and therapists Better preparation for school and social life Whether you're seeking applied behavioral analysis Maryland services in-home or in-clinic, quality and fit matter. Step-by-Step Guide to Choosing the Best ABA Therapy Provider in Maryland 1. Confirm Credentials and Certification The most reputable ABA therapy providers in Maryland are staffed with: Board Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBAs) – who design and oversee your child’s treatment Registered Behavior Technicians (RBTs) – who implement the therapy under BCBA supervision Always verify the provider is licensed to deliver applied behavior analysis therapy in Maryland. Check credentials through: Behavior Analyst Certification Board (BACB) Maryland Department of Health 2. Ask About Treatment Philosophy No two children are alike. That’s why effective ABA therapy is never “cookie-cutter.” Look for providers who: Conduct detailed initial assessments Develop individualized treatment plans Use data to guide decisions Adjust strategies as your child grows The best applied behavior analyst therapists focus on creating measurable, achievable goals tailored to your child’s unique needs. 3. Explore the Service Delivery Options Depending on your child’s needs and your lifestyle, you may prefer: In-home ABA therapy : Delivered in the comfort of your home for real-life skill-building Clinic-based ABA therapy : Offers structured learning environments and peer interaction School-based support : Collaborates with educators to reinforce skills during school hours Telehealth : Ideal for remote or flexible support Ask if the provider supports families throughout the state or in specific regions (e.g., Montgomery County, Prince George’s County, or Baltimore City). 4. Check Insurance Coverage and Billing Transparency Therapy can be costly, but the right provider will help you navigate: Maryland Medicaid and private insurance plans Out-of-pocket cost estimates Prior authorizations Payment plans or financial assistance A high-quality provider will also assign a care coordinator to support you with insurance paperwork and communication. 5. Learn About Staff Training and Retention Children thrive on consistency. A reliable provider invests in: Ongoing staff training Low staff turnover Regular BCBA supervision of RBTs Therapeutic consistency (same therapist assigned regularly) A committed and experienced applied behavior analyst therapist can form a meaningful bond with your child and deliver more effective results. 6. Understand Family Involvement You are an essential part of your child’s therapeutic journey. The best ABA providers offer: Weekly parent training and coaching Opportunities to observe sessions or review data Monthly progress meetings Tools to continue behavior strategies at home Providers who embrace family-centered care lead to stronger outcomes and smoother integration of skills into daily life. 7. Ask for Success Stories and References Don’t hesitate to ask: How many families they’ve served in Maryland Testimonials or references from current clients Case examples (anonymized) that match your child’s challenges Reading Google reviews, Facebook feedback, and local parenting forums can also give insight into the provider’s reputation in your community. 8. Visit the Facility or Schedule a Virtual Tour Seeing the environment where your child will receive therapy is invaluable. While there: Observe how therapists interact with children Look for clean, safe, and well-equipped spaces Ask about the ratio of children to therapists For in-home aba therapy, ask what materials and resources the therapist will bring and how sessions are structured. 9. Evaluate Their Communication and Responsiveness Strong communication is key. Your provider should: Respond promptly to inquiries Clearly explain the assessment process and therapy goals Be transparent about timelines, policies, and staff You should feel supported—not rushed—through the intake and onboarding process. 10. Trust Your Instincts Ultimately, choosing an ABA therapy provider is a personal decision. If you feel that a provider listens to your concerns, understands your goals, and truly cares about your child’s progress, that’s a strong sign you’re in the right place. Leading Providers Offering Applied Behavioral Analysis in Maryland Some trusted names to begin your search include: Able Minds ABA – A provider offering applied behavior analysis therapy across Maryland with flexible in-home services and experienced clinicians. Behavioral Framework Verbal Beginnings Key Connections ABA Services Each of these organizations provides certified applied behavior analyst therapists and offers individualized programs designed for success. Final Thoughts Choosing the best ABA therapy provider in Maryland doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. When you understand what to look for—from credentials and personalized care to communication and insurance support—you can find a team that fits your family’s needs and empowers your child to thrive. By investing in quality applied behavioral analysis Maryland services, you’re laying the foundation for a brighter, more independent future for your child.