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Our Blog — Page 15

The True Progress Therapy blog is your trusted source for evidence-based ABA insights, autism research, and clinical perspectives. Designed for families seeking answers and professionals raising the bar — because meaningful progress starts with knowledge.

Showing 12 of 543 articles · page 15 of 46

An autistic boy solving colorful cube puzzle at desk during in-home ABA therapy session in New Jersey.
Autism Sep 2025

What Is the IQ of a Nonverbal Autistic Person?

The IQ of a nonverbal autistic person can vary widely, just as it does for neurotypical individuals. Being nonverbal does not automatically mean low intelligence. Some nonverbal individuals may have intellectual disabilities, while others may have average or even above-average intelligence. Why IQ C

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An autistic woman writing in notebook while sitting on sofa, applying ABA techniques on herself in New Jersey.
ABA Therapy Sep 2025

Can You Use ABA on Yourself?

Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) is most often used by therapists to support individuals with autism, but its principles can be applied to anyone, including yourself. At its core, ABA is about understanding how behaviors are influenced by the environment and using reinforcement to create positive cha

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Autistic children learning with an ABA therapist using picture cards during ABA therapy session in New Jersey.
ABA Therapy Sep 2025

Is ABA the Best Treatment for Autism?

Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) is widely recognized as one of the most effective therapies for children with autism. While “best” can vary depending on a child’s unique needs, ABA stands out because it is research-backed, individualized, and highly adaptable. Why ABA Is Considered Effective: Eviden

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An autistic baby sitting on floor surrounded by toys and books during ABA therapy session in New Jersey
ABA Therapy Sep 2025

Transforming Lives with Pivotal Response Training in ABA Therapy

Understanding Pivotal Response Training in ABA Families across New Jersey and beyond often search for interventions that not only address specific skills but also spark broader developmental gains. Among Applied Behavior Analysis options, pivotal response training in ABA stands out with its naturali

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An autistic child with crossed arms looking away as an adult points a finger, punishing them in NJ.
ABA Therapy Sep 2025

What Are the Red Flags in ABA Therapy?

ABA therapy can be life-changing for children with autism, but not all programs are created equal. Parents should know the warning signs that an ABA program may not be providing ethical, effective, or compassionate care. Key Red Flags to Watch For: One-Size-Fits-All Approach – Every child is unique.

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Autism spelled with colorful wooden blocks against a white background, symbolizing autism statistics in New Jersey.
Autism Sep 2025

Understanding Autism Spectrum Disorder Statistics Today

Recent figures show that 1 in 31 eight-year-old children in the United States meets the criteria for autism spectrum disorder, highlighting its growing recognition in schools, clinics, and communities. These autism spectrum disorder statistics shed light on current prevalence patterns, diagnostic ag

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Person handing Tylenol pill to pregnant patient holding water glass even with autism risks it poses.
Autism Sep 2025

Tylenol, Autism, and Leucovorin: What the Science Really Says

The Trump administration is preparing to announce a new policy statement linking prenatal use of acetaminophen (Tylenol) with autism risk and highlighting leucovorin, a folinic acid supplement, as a potential treatment for autism spectrum disorder (ASD). The move has sparked debate among families, c

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A kid and an RBT during ABA therapy
ABA Therapy Sep 2025

What Happens if ABA Therapy Is Stopped Too Early?

ABA therapy is most effective when it’s consistent and long-term. If stopped too early, children may face challenges such as: Regression of skills: Learned behaviors, communication, or coping strategies may fade without reinforcement. Interrupted progress: Stopping abruptly can leave goals unfinishe

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An kid with autism and his RBT are playing with wooden blocks
Autism Sep 2025

How to Deal with Repetitive Behaviors in Autism

Repetitive behaviors in autism—such as hand-flapping, rocking, or repeating words—are often called stimming. These actions help children self-regulate emotions, reduce stress, or find comfort in overwhelming environments. The key is understanding when intervention is needed. If the behavior is harml

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A kid with his train toys smiling
Autism Sep 2025

What Is Allistic? Understanding the Term

The term allistic refers to anyone who is not autistic. While “neurotypical” usually describes people without neurological differences, “allistic” is more specific—it simply means non-autistic, regardless of whether someone has another condition such as ADHD, dyslexia, or anxiety. This distinction m

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A kid with autism lining up his toy cars
Autism Sep 2025

Why Do Kids with Autism Line Up Toys?

Many parents notice their child with autism lining up toys instead of playing with them in traditional ways. This behavior is linked to repetitive and restrictive behaviors, which are common characteristics of autism. Children may line up toys because it provides predictability and order, helping th

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A kid taking an online autism test
Autism Sep 2025

Are Online Autism Tests Accurate?

Parents and adults often turn to online autism tests as a quick way to explore concerns. But are these tests accurate? The short answer is no, not entirely. Online autism tests can be useful screening tools. They may highlight potential traits such as difficulties with communication, social interact

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About the Author

Michele Young

Regional Clinical Director

MS · CCC-SLP · BCBA · LBA

Michele has been working with young people with autism since 2009, bringing more than 15 years of hands-on clinical experience to every article she writes. A Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) and Licensed Speech-Language Pathologist (CCC-SLP), Michele has built programs at Rutgers, led behavioral services at Autism Family Services of NJ, taught graduate students at LaSalle University, and worked in schools across New Jersey and the Carolinas.

As Regional Clinical Director at True Progress Therapy, Michele oversees clinical operations and makes sure every BCBA on the team has what they need to deliver real, measurable results for families.

She writes about ABA therapy, autism support, communication-building strategies, and what families and therapists can do to drive measurable progress — translating decades of clinical experience into guidance you can actually use.

Clinical Specialties

  • Functional Communication Training (FCT)
  • Picture Exchange Communication System (PECS)
  • Real-world ABA program design
Credentials & Verification

BACB Certification #1-10-6918

Active · Certified since 2010

Verify on BACB