Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) is a widely used, evidence-informed approach that supports skill development, communication, and daily routines for some children. For many parents, deciding whether ABA is the proper support can raise a lot of questions and sometimes guilt.
At Bridgeway Integrated Healthcare Services, we understand these concerns because we hear them from families every day, from Taylorsville to St. George and every city in between. This guide is here to help you navigate the decision-making process with clarity and confidence without shame, without pressure, and with clear, evidence-informed guidance designed to help families understand their options.
What is ABA, and Why Is It Used?
Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) uses structured, positive reinforcement strategies to support learning, communication, and daily living skills. Programs are tailored to each child and adjusted over time based on individual needs.
At Bridgeway, ABA services are coordinated with mental health support, primary care, and educational services, so families experience connected care rather than navigating multiple systems on their own.
Common Signs Your Child Might Benefit from ABA
While only a qualified clinician can formally recommend ABA, there are behavioral indicators that may suggest it is helpful. These signs vary by age and developmental stage.
Age Range | Signs to Watch For |
Under 3 | – Delayed speech – Limited eye contact – Lack of response to name – Repetitive motions (e.g., hand flapping) |
3–6 years | – Difficulty with transitions or routines – Trouble interacting with peers – Aggressive or self-injurious behavior – Regression of learned skills |
7+ years | – Meltdowns over small changes – Difficulty following instructions – Limited play skills – Obsessive interests or repetitive verbal patterns |
If you’re noticing patterns that feel challenging or concerning, speaking with a professional can help you better understand what types of support may be helpful.
Find ABA support for kids near you in Taylorsville, Lehi, St. George, Cedar City, and other Utah locations.
What ABA Looks Like at Bridgeway
Here’s what makes Bridgeway’s ABA approach different from others across Utah:
Individualized Support Plans
Each child’s plan is created by a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) and delivered by trained Registered Behavior Technicians (RBTs), customized to your child’s developmental needs.
Integrated Services
Your child’s ABA sessions may be coordinated with mental health support, medical checkups, or tutoring, reducing fragmentation and supporting more coordinated care.
Family Empowerment
We include parents and caregivers every step of the way, providing support and training so that you can reinforce progress at home.
Guilt-Free Parenting: It’s About Support, Not Change
Let’s clear something up: Seeking support for your child is not about “fixing” them. It’s about equipping them.
ABA isn’t about changing who your child is. It focuses on supporting communication, reducing frustration, and helping children navigate daily life more comfortably.
Many families find that starting support earlier can be helpful, though every child’s path looks different.
Behavioral supports may be beneficial for some children. Individual experiences and progress vary, which is why personalized care is essential.
Real Talk: When Parents Should Consider an ABA Evaluation
You don’t need a formal diagnosis to seek help. In fact, many families come to Bridgeway because:
- Their child’s preschool teacher expressed concern.
- Speech therapy alone isn’t helping enough.
- Their child was recently identified as needing developmental support, and they feel overwhelmed.
- They’re navigating Medicaid ABA coverage in Utah and don’t know where to start.
If you’re unsure, an initial consultation with one of our Taylorsville ABA professionals or at any of our eight Utah locations can help you feel more confident moving forward.
How to Get Started with ABA Support in Utah
Here’s how it works at Bridgeway:
1. Schedule a Consultation
Book a call or in-person meeting via our online portal. No referral necessary.
2. Insurance Verification
We accept most major insurance plans, including Medicaid. We’ll help you check your coverage.
3. Intake Assessment
If ABA is recommended, we’ll complete a comprehensive assessment better to understand your child’s strengths and support needs.
4. Start Services
Therapy sessions begin at your local clinic, whether that’s ABA support in Brigham City, Salt Lake City, Richfield, or Riverdale.
Learn more about our ABA Support Services
What If Your Child Doesn’t Need ABA?
Not every child showing social or communication delays needs ABA. That’s why our integrated team also offers:
Mental Health Therapy Near You
Anxiety, mood swings, and trauma symptoms are common in children with or without developmental support needs. Our licensed therapists can help.
Primary Care for Families in Utah
Our medical team provides wellness exams, vaccines, and medication management to support whole-child care under one roof.
Academic Support Services
If your child is struggling in school due to attention issues, executive functioning, or social dynamics, our Bridgeway Academy program may be a better fit.
Explore more: Integrated Healthcare in Utah
Frequently Asked Questions
How Long Does ABA Support Last?
It depends on your child’s needs. Some receive 10–15 hours per week; others may benefit from 30+ hours per week. We reassess regularly.
Will my child be “different” after ABA?
They’ll still be themselves just with more tools to navigate daily life, express needs, and feel successful.
Does Bridgeway Accept Medicaid For ABA in Utah?
Yes. We’re an approved provider for Utah Medicaid and can guide you through the process.
Can I Be Involved In My Child’s ABA Plan?
Absolutely. Parent involvement is essential to our approach, and we offer training to help you support progress at home.
Locations We Serve: ABA Support Near You in Utah
Bridgeway has nine convenient regional locations for pediatric behavioral support, mental health, and primary care:
- Taylorsville, UT (Headquarters) – Integrated care hub
- St. George, UT – Serving Southern Utah families
- Cedar City, UT – ABA and mental health services
- Lehi, UT – Convenient for northern Utah County
- Roy, UT – Near Ogden, serving Weber County
- Brigham City, UT – ABA and family support
- Richfield, UT – Central Utah services
- Salt Lake City, UT – Urban families & Medicaid support
- Riverdale, UT – Behavioral therapy and education services
Looking for ABA services near me in Utah? Contact your local office today.
You’re Not Alone, and You Don’t Have to Know Everything Today
Parenting a child with different needs is not easy. But you’re not expected to do this alone. The first step is simply asking the question, and you already did that.
Whether you’re based in Taylorsville or traveling from St. George, Lehi, or Salt Lake City, Bridgeway is here to guide you with evidence-informed care, clear next steps, and a team that genuinely cares about your family’s whole wellbeing.
Ready to Talk?
Take the First Step with Bridgeway
Would your child benefit from ABA or another support service? Schedule a consultation to discuss your questions and explore the support options that might be right for your family.
Visit https://www.bridgewayihs.com to get started.