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Our Blog — Page 6

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 6 of 46

Group of children with autism celebrating at a decorated birthday party table.
Autism Jan 2026

Birthday Party Tips for Children With Autism: Reduce Stress and Build Confidence

I’ve watched many parents worry about how their child with autism will handle a birthday party. The unknown can create a lot of anxiety for both parent and child. I believe that preparation, patience, and the right tools can make a big difference. Social events can become less scary and more success

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Toddler with autism pointing angrily while a BCBA stands behind in a kitchen.
Autism Jan 2026

Effective Mood Stabilizers for Autism-Related Anger and Emotional Outbursts

Anger is a common challenge for individuals with autism, often triggered by frustration, sensory overload, or difficulty with communication. Managing these emotional outbursts requires understanding the underlying causes and finding the right treatment approach. While medications for autism can help

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BCBA and girl with autism sitting on a couch taking a selfie after ABA therapy.
Autism Jan 2026

Protecting Your Child’s Privacy: Social Media Tips for Parents of Autistic Kids

Parenting an autistic child comes with unique challenges, and while social media can be a great resource for support, it’s important to set clear boundaries. Posting online can sometimes blur the lines between sharing helpful information and respecting your child's privacy. Here are some practical t

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BCBA adjusting autistic child's backpack outside a school gate.
Autism Jan 2026

How to Help Your Child with Autism Overcome Separation Anxiety at School

School can be an exciting but anxiety-inducing experience for children with autism, especially when it comes to saying goodbye at the door. Separation anxiety is something many parents face, and it can be tough to know where to start. I’m here to share strategies that can help ease those first-day n

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Two young autistic children indoors with sunlight shadows across their faces, showing quiet focus and emotional awareness.
ABA Therapy Jan 2026

Is ABA Therapy Harmful?

Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy is often considered the gold standard for supporting individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). However, some families wonder if ABA therapy can be harmful. Concerns usually stem from older practices that focused heavily on compliance without considering

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Two autistic girls sitting on a park path beside scooters, holding hands and sharing a moment of friendship and trust.
ABA Therapy Jan 2026

What Can I Do Instead of ABA?

Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) is the most widely recommended therapy for autism, but some families explore alternatives or complementary approaches. Instead of ABA, parents may consider therapies such as speech therapy, which builds communication skills, or occupational therapy, which focuses on d

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ABA therapist talking with two autistic children in a home office, guiding behavior & communication during a support session.
Autism Jan 2026

What Is the First Line of Therapy for Autism?

When it comes to autism spectrum disorder (ASD), early and effective intervention is key. The first line of therapy most widely recommended is Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA). ABA therapy focuses on teaching practical skills, improving communication, and reducing behaviors that may interfere with da

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A young autistic boy happily cleaning a kitchen counter with a spray bottle and cloth, practicing independence skills.
Autism Jan 2026

Can Autistic People Care for Themselves?

Autistic individuals, like anyone else, have unique strengths and challenges when it comes to self‑care. The ability to care for oneself depends on factors such as communication skills, sensory sensitivities, and support systems. Many autistic adults and children can manage daily routines independen

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An autistic girl speaking while a parent listens in the background, representing family discussion and emotional expression.
Autism Jan 2026

What Is Borderline Autism in Adults?

Borderline autism in adults refers to individuals who show traits of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) but may not meet the full diagnostic criteria. These adults often experience challenges in social communication, sensory sensitivities, or maintaining routines, yet their symptoms can appear subtle co

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A young autistic child holding a teddy bear while two clinicians review a clipboard during a developmental therapy session.
Autism Jan 2026

Understanding Early Intervention for Autism in New Jersey

Key Highlights Early intervention for autism spectrum disorder involves starting therapeutic support as soon as a diagnosis is suspected or confirmed. An early diagnosis, which can occur as young as two years of age, is critical for accessing timely services. Therapies like applied behavior analysis

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Smiling autistic boy holding two colorful puzzle pieces in front of a gray background, symbolizing learning and connection.
Autism Jan 2026

The Power of Affirming Autism in Everyday Life

Key Highlights A neurodiversity-affirming approach views autism as a natural variation of human experience, not a deficit to be corrected. This affirming practice shifts the focus from "fixing" autistic people to understanding their unique strengths and support needs. Embracing the neurodiversity pa

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ABA therapist with red hair looking thoughtfully at scattered puzzle pieces on a table, showing problem solving & reflection.
Autism Jan 2026

Recognizing Autism and ADHD Symptoms in Adults

Key Highlights Autism and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) frequently co-occur in adults, creating unique challenges. Many ADHD symptoms can overlap with signs of the autism spectrum, making an accurate diagnosis of ADHD crucial. Autistic adults who also have ADHD may experience great

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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