ABA Therapy for Children with Autism in Chicago
Helping your child communicate, learn, and thrive
At Chicago Pediatric Therapy & Wellness Center, we believe every child deserves the chance to thrive. Whether your child needs one-on-one ABA therapy, group sessions for social development, or a personalized plan that integrates multiple therapies, our Chicago ABA therapy programs help children succeed at home, in school, and in the community.
- Board Certified Behavior Analysts
- Most IL insurance accepted
- Openings available now
Schedule Your Free Consultation
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Areas We Serve
Serving Families Across Chicago
Located at 1739 N Elston Avenue, our clinic is easily accessible to families throughout Chicago, including Lincoln Park, Bucktown, Wicker Park, Logan Square, and West Town. We also offer home-based and school-based ABA options for families who need flexibility.
A Complete Approach
What We Offer with Chicago ABA Therapy
Our ABA program is part of a multidisciplinary team, so your child's care is coordinated across every discipline they need.
Speech & Feeding Therapy
Helping children communicate clearly and overcome eating difficulties.
Group Activities
Building social skills through play and peer interaction.
Parent Training
Learn strategies to support your child's progress at home.
School Readiness
Preparing children for confidence and success in the classroom.
The Basics
What Is Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) Therapy?
Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) is a research-backed approach to therapy for children with autism. Decades of research confirm that ABA helps children reach their full potential — at home, in school, and in the community.
At CPTWC, our Chicago ABA programs are evidence-based, data-driven, and always personalized by Board Certified Behavior Analysts.
Improve communication and language skills
Develop social and play skills
Increase independence in daily routines
Reduce challenging behaviors
Prepare for school readiness and beyond
Discover How CPTWC Can Benefit Your Child
We believe ABA therapy should be both effective and enjoyable. Families across Chicago see real progress because we combine:
Play-based learning
that keeps kids engaged and motivated.
Evidence-based ABA techniques
proven to help children with autism.
Family involvement
so progress continues at home.
Collaborative care
with speech and OT when needed.
1739 N Elston Avenue, Chicago, IL 60642
Just minutes from Lincoln Park via North Avenue, central to the whole city.
Parking: Free heated parking attached to the building.
Public Transit: Accessible via the CTA Blue Line and multiple bus routes.
Tailored to Your Child
ABA Therapy Programs for Every Age
After an initial assessment, our BCBAs design a program around your child's stage of development and your family's goals.
Early Intervention (Ages 0–3)
Starting early makes the biggest difference. We help toddlers develop:
- First words and gestures
- Play skills
- Following simple directions
- Reducing tantrums
Preschool Prep (Ages 3–5)
Build the foundation for school success with:
- Classroom behaviors
- Peer interaction
- Following routines
- Pre-academic skills
School-Age Support (Ages 6+)
Help older children thrive with:
- Homework skills
- Making friends
- Managing emotions
- Independence
What to Expect When You Begin ABA Therapy
We understand that beginning ABA therapy can feel overwhelming. Our process is designed to make it simple and supportive every step of the way.
Initial Contact
Call us or fill out our contact form, and our intake team will listen to your family's needs.
Free Consultation
Meet with our staff to discuss your child's strengths, challenges, and therapy goals.
Insurance Guidance
We verify your benefits, obtain authorization, and explain your coverage clearly.
Comprehensive Assessment
Our BCBAs observe and interact with your child to design a tailored ABA therapy plan.
Therapy Sessions Begin
We match your child with the right therapist and start implementing the plan.
Ongoing Progress Reviews
We regularly share data with you, adjust goals, and celebrate milestones.
You do not have to wait months to get started
We have openings now for Chicago families. Speak with a BCBA this week.
Why Families Choose Us
When Your Family Chooses Chicago Pediatric Therapy & Wellness Center
A therapist-owned, multidisciplinary clinic that puts your child's outcomes first.
Experienced Team
Our BCBAs and RBTs have years of experience helping children with autism. They know how to connect with kids and make therapy fun while getting results.
Proven Progress
98% of our families see meaningful improvements in communication and behavior. We track data every session to ensure your child is making progress.
Insurance Support
We accept most major insurance plans and handle the authorization process for you. Our team makes getting coverage as simple as possible.
500+
Families Served
10+
Years in Chicago
98%
Parent Satisfaction
15+
Experienced Therapists
See It in Action
Center-Based ABA Therapy That Works
Take a look inside our Chicago clinic and see how play-based ABA therapy helps children grow.
Meet Our Team
Our Board Certified Behavior Analysts
Your child's plan is led by experienced, credentialed BCBAs who genuinely love what they do.
Cara L.
MS, BCBA · Director of ABA
Lauren H.
MS, BCBA · Lead BCBA
Ana R.
MS, BCBA · Lead BCBA
Melina S.
MS, BCBA · Lead BCBA
Jenna H.
MA, BCBA · Lead BCBA
Rory C.
M.Ed., BCBA
Nathalie D.
MA, BCBA
Ashley D.
MA, BCBA
Cristian M.
MS, BCBA
Denise M.
MS, BCBA
Shauna R.
MA, BCBA
Alexandra S.
MA, BCBA
Macey Y.
MS, BCBA
Real Stories from Families Like Yours
aitaralunga
4 years ago
Natalie Berra is a godsend! My son needed physical therapy from a very early age and we saw Natalie for several months. She was always very professional, welcoming and clearly knows her stuff & takes pride in doing a good job. We are very happy with my son’s progress, and the sessions did not feel like a chore every week because Natalie is so easy to talk to. The whole practice seems well run and it makes such a difference when front desk people are actually pleasant too (Ms Cory was wonderful).
Kathleen Pesa
4 years ago
We have been working with Natalie K. now for about 7 months. She is the absolute best PT I could have asked for!!! I was so worried when my son wasn’t crawling yet at 10 months old and she had him moving in no time! Same thing with his walking. He also absolutely adores her. She is so good with babies and toddlers! I look forward to going to our weekly session because I know how productive it will be every time and I walk out of our sessions in such a good mood. I can’t recommend a center or therapist more!!
Jessica Cortright
4 years ago
My son has been seeing Natalie Kahn for about a year, we just absolutely love her. She is patient, kind, smart and dedicated to her skill and these kids. I can not recommend her enough to whomever will listen! My son adores her and has made amazing progress with his issues…so much so that we have recently gotten the clear to no longer need PT. Although we will miss seeing her every week, it’s because of her hard work and care that my son is thriving, and that I am so grateful for. It takes a village and I am so glad we have/had the pleasure of having Natalie in ours.
Jim
4 years ago
Our daughter loves going to Speech and OT here. Love the staff, specifically Alyse for OT and Sarah for speech therapy. They're so patient with our kiddo all the while keeping her on task and we love the growth we've seen already after just a few months. Veronica also has helped us navigate insurance and has been really helpful.
Lexy Neill
4 years ago
CPTWC has been an absolute haven for both my boys. The front office is always so welcoming & helpful with my 100 questions, especially Ms. Cory!
Our 4mo old baby required Physical Therapy due to Torticollis, and Ms. Amanda has been such a joy to work with. My son fell in love from day one, and she was able to help him achieve his goals, throughout his Doc Band journey.
Our 2.5yr old toddler was referred here by his pediatrician for Occupational Therapy, and Ms. Kirsten has been the most positive influence! He absolutely adores her, and has made such incredible progress. He has since started seeing Ms. Erin for Speech Therapy, which has also been such a positive and fun experience for him! Now we begin his ABA journey with Ms. Natalia and we already know he is in SUCH good hands with his whole caring team.
We are SO grateful to have found this wellness center, and would be lost without everyone there. Highly recommend for all the children in your life!
Our 4mo old baby required Physical Therapy due to Torticollis, and Ms. Amanda has been such a joy to work with. My son fell in love from day one, and she was able to help him achieve his goals, throughout his Doc Band journey.
Our 2.5yr old toddler was referred here by his pediatrician for Occupational Therapy, and Ms. Kirsten has been the most positive influence! He absolutely adores her, and has made such incredible progress. He has since started seeing Ms. Erin for Speech Therapy, which has also been such a positive and fun experience for him! Now we begin his ABA journey with Ms. Natalia and we already know he is in SUCH good hands with his whole caring team.
We are SO grateful to have found this wellness center, and would be lost without everyone there. Highly recommend for all the children in your life!
Our Space
See Our Chicago Center
A bright, play-filled space designed to make children excited to come to therapy.
Coverage Made Easy
We Work With Your Insurance
In Illinois, most major insurance providers cover ABA therapy for children with an autism diagnosis. We are in-network with Blue Cross Blue Shield, United Healthcare, Aetna, and more. Our team verifies benefits, obtains authorization, and submits claims so you can focus on your family.
We handle the insurance process for you. Our team will verify benefits, obtain authorization, and submit claims so you can focus on your family.
Questions about coverage or getting started?
Our team verifies your benefits and walks you through every step.
Common Questions
Chicago ABA Therapy: Frequently Asked Questions
What is ABA therapy?
ABA therapy is a proven, evidence-based approach to helping children with autism. It focuses on teaching communication, play, and self-care while reducing behaviors that get in the way of learning and independence. At CPTWC, every ABA program is personalized to ensure meaningful progress at your child’s own pace.
What ages of children do you serve in Chicago?
We provide ABA therapy for children as young as infants in Early Intervention (0 to 3 years) all the way through school-aged children. Early intervention is especially powerful — children who start ABA young tend to make the most progress.
How do I know if my child needs ABA therapy?
ABA is most often recommended for children with an autism diagnosis, but it can also help with communication delays, social skill challenges, sensory regulation needs, and difficulty with daily routines. Even without a formal diagnosis, our team can guide you through next steps.
Will my insurance cover ABA therapy in Illinois?
Yes. In Illinois, most major insurance providers cover ABA therapy for children with an autism diagnosis. We are in-network with Blue Cross Blue Shield, United Healthcare, Aetna, and more. Our team handles verifications and authorizations for you.
How many hours of ABA therapy does my child need?
Every child is different. After an initial assessment, our BCBAs recommend a schedule tailored to your child — from 10–15 hours per week to 25–40 hours of intensive ABA. We create a plan that works for your family.
Do you have availability for new patients?
Yes. Unlike many centers with long waitlists, we currently have openings for Chicago families. Once we complete the consultation, insurance verification, and assessment, we can usually begin therapy within a few weeks.
Can parents be involved in ABA therapy?
Absolutely. Parent involvement is one of the most important parts of successful ABA. We encourage caregivers to join sessions, learn strategies, and practice at home. We provide parent training and coaching throughout.
How do you measure my child’s progress?
Every session is tracked and reviewed by a BCBA. We meet with parents regularly to share data updates, celebrate wins, and adjust goals as your child grows.
What makes CPTWC different from other ABA providers?
At CPTWC, your child’s ABA therapist collaborates with speech therapists, occupational therapists, physical therapists, and social workers under one roof. This multidisciplinary model is rare and ensures the most well-rounded support possible.
What if my child needs more than just ABA therapy?
We also offer Speech Therapy, Occupational Therapy, Physical Therapy, Social Work, Feeding Therapy, and Preschool Readiness programs — all under one roof.
Ready to Learn More?
Take the first step toward helping your child thrive. You do not have to wait months for an appointment — we have openings now for Chicago families.
- Free consultation with a Board Certified Behavior Analyst
- We verify your insurance benefits for you
- Openings available now, no long waitlist
Prefer to talk now? Call (773) 672-7775
Schedule Your Free Consultation
* indicates required fields
Clinic Hours
Monday to Friday
8:00 AM to 6:00 PM
Saturday
9:00 AM to 2:00 PM
Sunday
Closed