The Difference Between Center-Based and In-Home ABA Therapy

When your child is diagnosed with autism and you begin exploring treatment options, one of the biggest questions you might face is: Should we choose in-home ABA therapy or center-based ABA therapy? Both settings offer valuable support, but they come with different benefits depending on your child’s needs—and your family’s routine.

Let’s break down the differences in a way that’s easy to understand and hopefully makes your decision feel a little clearer.

In-Home ABA Therapy: Therapy in the Comfort of Your Home

In-home ABA therapy takes place right where your child is most familiar—their own environment. A trained therapist comes to your home and works directly with your child, typically one-on-one.

Why parents love in-home ABA:

• Familiar setting: Many children feel more comfortable and confident learning new skills at home.
  
  
• Real-life learning: Everyday routines—like brushing teeth, playing with siblings, or following bedtime routines—can become part of the therapy.
  
  
• Parental involvement: You get a front-row seat to your child’s progress and can easily ask questions or reinforce skills between sessions.
  
  

Things to consider:

• Some children may get distracted by toys, screens, or other family members during therapy.
  
  
• You’ll need to have a quiet, consistent space available in your home for sessions.
  
  

Social interaction with peers might be limited unless the therapy includes planned playdates or outings.

Center-Based ABA Therapy: Structured Support Outside the Home

Center-based ABA therapy happens in a clinical or school-like setting designed specifically for learning and therapy. These centers often have multiple therapists, learning rooms, and even small group areas.

Why parents choose center-based ABA:

• Structured routine: The center environment is often highly organized, which can benefit kids who thrive with routine and consistency.
  
  
• Social development: Centers typically include peer interaction, helping children practice important social and communication skills in a group setting.
  
  
• Access to resources: Therapy centers often have more tools, materials, and support staff on hand.
  
  

Things to consider:

• You’ll need to plan transportation and build travel time into your schedule.
  
  
• Your child may take time adjusting to a new setting, especially if they’re not used to being away from home.
  
  
• It may be harder to address behaviors that occur primarily at home.

Which One Is Better?

Here’s the honest answer: There’s no one-size-fits-all choice. Some children thrive at home, while others do better in a center. Many families even choose a hybrid model—splitting time between home and center to get the best of both worlds.

The “right” setting depends on your child’s personality, goals, age, developmental level, and even your family’s daily schedule.

• At the end of the day, what matters most is that your child is supported, growing, and feels safe in their therapy environment. Whether that happens on your living room floor or in a therapy center doesn’t define their progress—it’s the quality of the therapy and the love and commitment behind it.
• If you’re unsure where to start, talk to your ABA provider. A thoughtful team will listen to your concerns, explain your options, and help you build a plan that fits your child’s needs—and your family’s life.