Play therapy and ABA therapy can absolutely be combined, and for many children, this blended approach works very well. When done thoughtfully, the two can support emotional growth and skill-building at the same time.
Families don’t have to choose one or the other. The key is using each approach in the right way, for the right goals.
How play therapy and ABA therapy work together
The best way to think about this is collaboration. ABA therapy is structured and data-driven. Play therapy is more child-led and emotionally focused. When combined, they can complement each other instead of competing.
ABA provides clear goals and measurable progress. Play therapy creates a safe space for expression and connection. Together, they can support the whole child.
What ABA therapy focuses on
ABA therapy helps children build functional skills they use every day, such as:
- Communication and language
- Social interaction
- Following directions
- Daily living skills
- Reducing challenging behaviors
Sessions are structured, but good ABA providers still make learning engaging and motivating.
What play therapy focuses on
Play therapy uses play as a child’s natural form of communication. It often supports:
- Emotional regulation
- Coping with stress or anxiety
- Social-emotional development
- Self-expression
This can be especially helpful for children who struggle to express feelings with words.
When combining ABA and play therapy makes sense
Combining ABA and play therapy can be helpful when:
- A child needs both skill-building and emotional support
- ABA goals can be reinforced through play-based strategies
- Therapists communicate and align on goals
- Play is used as a teaching and connection tool, not just free time
Many modern ABA programs already use play-based ABA strategies, especially for young children.
Why coordination is important
The most important factor isn’t whether the therapies are combined—it’s how. When providers work together, children get consistent support instead of mixed messages.
Families should feel empowered to ask questions and make sure therapies align with their child’s needs and comfort level.
Support that blends structure with connection
If you’re exploring therapy options for your child, you don’t have to navigate it alone.
At True Progress Therapy, we provide individualized ABA services across New Jersey that respect each child’s personality and developmental needs. Our services include in-home ABA and parent training, helping families support progress beyond therapy sessions.
Contact us today to learn how a flexible, child-centered ABA approach can support your family.
FAQs
Can a child receive play therapy and ABA therapy at the same time?
Yes. Many children benefit from receiving both, as long as the therapies are coordinated and goals don’t conflict.
Is play-based ABA the same as play therapy?
No. Play-based ABA uses play to teach specific skills, while play therapy focuses more on emotional expression and processing.
Will ABA therapy limit my child’s creativity or play?
Quality ABA therapy encourages play, creativity, and motivation while still teaching meaningful skills.
Sources:
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8812369/
- https://www.bacp.co.uk/about-therapy/types-of-therapy/play-therapy/
- https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/10.1177/09731342241238524
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3196209/
https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/25197-applied-behavior-analysis
