Families often hear a soup of acronyms after a diagnosis. Here is a plain-language overview of the most common therapies and what each one focuses on. Many children benefit from more than one.
ABA — Applied Behavior Analysis
ABA uses structured, individualized strategies to build communication, social, and daily-living skills and to reduce behaviors that get in the way of learning. Programs are designed and supervised by a BCBA.
Speech-Language Therapy
Speech-language pathologists (SLPs) support communication in all its forms — spoken language, understanding, social conversation, and alternative communication tools like picture systems or devices (AAC).
Occupational Therapy (OT)
OTs help with the “occupations” of childhood: fine-motor skills, handwriting, self-care like dressing and eating, and sensory processing that affects comfort and focus.
Physical Therapy (PT)
PTs focus on gross-motor skills, strength, balance, coordination, and mobility — helping kids move confidently through their day.
How they fit together
- Trouble being understood? Speech therapy is often the starting point.
- Struggles with handwriting, dressing, or sensory overload? OT can help.
- Delays in walking, running, or coordination? PT may be a fit.
- Broad skill-building and behavior support? ABA is commonly recommended.
Your child’s pediatrician, Regional Center, and evaluators can help you prioritize. Use StarzMeet to find each type of provider by category and city.
This guide is general information for families, not medical, legal, or financial advice. Programs, coverage, and eligibility change — always confirm current details directly with the provider, your health plan, your Regional Center, and licensed professionals.
