Understanding Challenging Behaviors in Autism
For many parents of children with autism, managing challenging behaviors can be one of the most difficult parts of their journey. Behaviors such as aggression, self-harm, meltdowns, or social withdrawal can be overwhelming, but they are often a child’s way of expressing unmet needs, sensory overload, or communication difficulties. The good news is that with the right therapeutic strategies, including ABA therapy, children can learn to manage these behaviors in a healthy, constructive way.
At Phoenix Autism Center (PAC), including the Glendale AZ location, our approach to behavior therapy is built on real experience. Founders Justin and Bre Hartman started PAC because they understand these challenges firsthand. As parents of a child with autism, they’ve faced the same struggles and frustrations, and they built PAC to ensure families receive the support they need to navigate them successfully.
Children with autism often engage in challenging behaviors because they struggle with:
- Communication difficulties – They may not have the words or skills to express their emotions, leading to frustration.
- Sensory overload – Bright lights, loud noises, or crowded spaces can trigger distress.
- Difficulty with transitions – Unexpected changes in routine can cause anxiety and outbursts.
- Emotional regulation struggles – Children with autism may have difficulty managing big emotions and need support to develop coping skills.
Rather than simply trying to “stop” these behaviors, therapy focuses on understanding their root cause and teaching children better ways to express themselves.
How ABA Therapy Helps Manage Challenging Behaviors
1. Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) Therapy
ABA therapy is one of the most effective approaches for addressing challenging behaviors in children with autism. This evidence-based therapy helps children learn positive behaviors while reducing problematic ones through structured reinforcement.
At PAC, our ABA therapists use:
- Positive reinforcement to encourage desirable behaviors
- Visual supports to help with transitions and expectations
- Behavior replacement strategies to teach new ways to express emotions
Example: If a child throws toys when frustrated, instead of focusing on “stopping” the behavior, therapy teaches them to use a calming strategy or ask for a break instead.
2. Speech and Language Therapy for Communication
Many behavioral challenges stem from difficulty expressing needs. Speech therapy helps children:
- Improve verbal and nonverbal communication
- Use alternative communication tools (e.g., PECS, AAC devices)
- Learn how to self-advocate and express frustration in a healthy way
When a child can communicate their needs more effectively, behaviors like aggression or meltdowns often decrease.
3. Occupational Therapy for Sensory and Emotional Regulation
For children with sensory processing difficulties, occupational therapy (OT) helps them regulate their responses to stimuli. At PAC, therapists use:
- Sensory-friendly strategies to manage overstimulation (e.g., weighted blankets, fidget tools)
- Self-regulation techniques like deep breathing and movement breaks
- Social-emotional play therapy to build coping skills in real-world situations
Example: A child who becomes aggressive due to loud environments may learn to wear noise-canceling headphones or use a quiet space before becoming overwhelmed.
How PAC Helps Families Navigate Behavior Challenges
At Phoenix Autism Center, we believe in personalized, compassionate therapy tailored to each child’s needs. Justin and Bre Hartman built PAC with the understanding that parents need support, too. That’s why we:
✔ Work closely with families to create behavior plans that work at home and school
✔ Provide parent training so caregivers have tools to reinforce progress
✔ Foster a supportive environment where children feel safe to learn and grow
“As parents, we’ve been there. We know what it’s like to feel exhausted, worried, and unsure of what to do next. That’s why we created Phoenix Autism Center—to give families real solutions and hope.” – Justin & Bre Hartman
Justin and Bre also understand that access to high-quality autism therapy shouldn’t be limited by location. Families deserve support where they are, which is why Phoenix Autism Center has expanded to four locations, including Glendale and McDowell Ave. Their mission is to bring compassionate, evidence-based care to as many children as possible, ensuring that families across the region have the resources they need to navigate autism with confidence. And they’re not stopping there—PAC has plans for continued expansion, reaching even more communities with the specialized care that children with autism deserve.
Ready to Learn More About ABA Therapy?
Challenging behaviors in autism are not just “bad behaviors” but signals that a child needs support. With the right therapy, strategies, and patience, children can learn how to express themselves, manage emotions, and develop lifelong coping skills. Contact us to see if Phoenix Autism Center can help your family thrive.
