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Yes, you can pause ABA therapy and sometimes it’s the most thoughtful choice. When family life shifts, a child feels overwhelmed, or goals have been met, a carefully planned break (not a sudden stop) can protect progress and support everyone’s wellbeing.
Why a Pause Can Be Smart (When Life Changes)
Families face a lot—moving house, welcoming a sibling, illness, or scheduling changes. Pausing therapy with a BCBA’s guidance helps prevent burnout and gives everyone time to reset.
Skipping sessions without planning? That’s riskier.
Experts warn abrupt breaks can cause regression because acquired skills may fade if not reinforced regularly. A gradual reduction, combined with simple home routines, keeps momentum intact.
How to Pause Responsibly
Talk with your child’s BCBA—that’s step one. They’ll assess progress, recommend which skills to maintain, and suggest a tapering schedule of ABA sessions (e.g. going from 20 to 10 hours/week).
Then, commit to basic reinforcement at home: snack-time choices to practice communication, countdowns before transitions, or turn-taking games. These daily routines mimic therapy and support skill retention.
Finally, stay flexible. Check in every few weeks. If things feel off—new challenges or lost routines—it may be time to resume sessions, perhaps with reduced or parent‑coached hours.
Your child’s growth matters—but so does your family’s rhythm. A thoughtful pause can be a healthy strategy, not a setback.
At Epic Minds Therapy in North Carolina, we offer compassionate in‑home ABA programs that flexibly align with your family’s life.
And for students, we provide school‑based ABA services—supporting consistent progress in familiar learning environments.