ABA TherapyBlog
Yes — play therapy and ABA therapy can be combined, and many families find that using them together creates a more balanced, child-centered approach. When blended correctly, play becomes a natural way to practice ABA goals while helping children feel safe, engaged, and motivated.
How Play Therapy and ABA Work Together
Play therapy focuses on emotional expression, imagination, and social connection. ABA therapy focuses on building skills through positive reinforcement and structured teaching. When integrated, the two can complement each other beautifully.
Here’s how blending them often looks:
Encouraging Learning Through Fun
ABA strategies can be taught in play-based activities, making sessions feel more like fun than work. This can help increase attention, motivation, and communication.
Supporting Emotional Development
Play therapy helps children express feelings, collaborate, and build confidence — all skills that support long-term success in ABA programs.
Creating a Child-Led Environment
A combined approach allows therapists to follow the child’s interests while still targeting ABA goals such as communication, social skills, and daily living skills.
Improving Generalization
Skills practiced during natural play are easier for children to use in everyday situations, which is a huge benefit of integrating play therapy principles into ABA.
Benefits of Using Both Approaches
- Increases engagement and motivation
- Supports emotional regulation
- Enhances communication and social skills
- Promotes natural learning opportunities
- Creates a positive, relationship-based therapy experience
Pairing play therapy with ABA can create a more joyful and effective experience for many children, especially when guided by trained professionals who understand how to blend the two approaches.
If you’re looking for compassionate, child-focused ABA therapy in North Carolina, Epic Minds Therapy offers a team that truly understands how to meet children where they are. Whether you prefer in-home ABA or school-based ABA, we provide personalized support designed to help children grow with confidence.
Learn more about our work at Epic Minds Therapy — and take the first step toward meaningful progress today.
FAQs
Can play therapy be part of an ABA treatment plan?
Yes. Many ABA providers use play-based methods because they help children stay motivated and make learning feel natural.
Is combining therapies overwhelming for kids?
When done by trained professionals, the approach is gentle and child-led, not overwhelming. It often makes therapy moreenjoyable.
Do I need two different therapists?
Not always. Some ABA therapists are trained in play-based methods, while others may collaborate closely with a play therapist to support your child’s needs.
Sources:
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8812369/
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9850869/
- https://autismspectrumnews.org/is-play-therapy-an-evidenced-based-intervention-for-children-with-autism/
- https://www.autismspeaks.org/applied-behavior-analysis
- https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/25197-applied-behavior-analysis
