In this heartfelt episode, Jacqueline is joined by her husband, Josh, to talk openly about something that’s become a major part of their family’s life lately: ABA therapy. After their oldest son was diagnosed with level 1 autism and ADHD at age six, they spent months sitting with the news, learning, questioning, and honestly…trying to figure out what actually felt right for their family.

Fast forward to today, and he’s been in in-home ABA therapy for four months — about 11 hours a week — and it's been eye-opening in ways they never expected.

In this episode, they share:

✨ How they first learned about ABA and why they waited nearly a year to start
✨ What modern ABA really is (and what it’s NOT)
✨ What those early sessions looked like and why they felt so uncomfortable
✨ The real-life skills their son is learning — from self-regulation to navigating fear
✨ How ABA has helped them as parents, not just him
✨ Why some parents have negative experiences, and how to spot supportive, child-led ABA
✨ How they’ve grown in advocating for their son at home and at school
✨ What they wish they’d known earlier in this journey

Jacqueline and Josh also share real moments: the meltdowns, the breakthroughs, the fear episodes, the “aha” lessons, and even how their son now proudly says, “I used my tools today.” Hearing him learn to advocate for himself — at seven years old — has been one of the biggest gifts.

If you’re a parent exploring autism evaluations, therapy options, or if you’re just curious what ABA looks like day-to-day for a high-functioning child, we hope this conversation gives you clarity, comfort, and the reminder that you’re not alone.

✨ Resources✨

• Learn more about ABA (Autism Speaks):
 https://www.autismspeaks.org/applied-behavior-analysis

• Find a BCBA (Behavior Analyst Certification Board):
 https://www.bacb.com/services/o.php?page=100155

• The Whole-Brain Child (book):
https://drdansiegel.com/book/the-whole-brain-child/

Have questions or want to share your experience?
Email Jacqueline at hello@motherhoodintended.com
or send her a message on Instagram. She'd love to hear your story and keep this conversation going.

Thanks for listening — and if this episode helped you, please share it with another parent who might be wondering if ABA therapy is right for their family. 💛

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