Myth #6: “ABA can’t help with emotional regulation.”

We get this one a lot—and we understand why. Emotional regulation is complex, deeply personal, and often misunderstood. But the idea that ABA can’t support it? That’s a myth.

Applied Behavior Analysis is a powerful framework for teaching emotional regulation—because it helps individuals understand, break down, and respond to emotions in a way that makes sense for them.

Here’s how:

Breaking it down, step by step

Big feelings can feel overwhelming—especially for neurodivergent individuals. ABA uses Functional Behavior Assessments (FBA) to identify the root causes of emotional reactions, and then builds personalized strategies to manage them.

Self-awareness through observation

Techniques like self-monitoring help individuals recognize their emotional states and patterns. Over time, this builds emotional vocabulary and empowers them to express what they feel and why.

Coping tools that work

Whether it’s deep breathing, sensory strategies, or structured routines, ABA helps teach coping skills that are age-appropriate, relevant, and rooted in real-world needs.

Blending the best of science and compassion

At Project I, we go a step further. We integrate insights from well-established social-emotional learning models like CASEL with the structure and rigor of ABA. This blended approach allows us to create individualized emotional regulation plans that respect both science and the learner’s identity.

Because emotional regulation isn’t just about calming down—it’s about understanding yourself, responding with intention, and thriving in the world.

Want to help your child manage big emotions with confidence? Explore our ConnectEd program and 1:1 Consultations, where emotional regulation is woven into every goal and guided by both heart and science.👉 Learn more or schedule a consult to start building your child’s emotional toolkit.