Can play therapy replace ABA therapy?

Not usually. Play therapy focuses more on emotional expression, while ABA therapy targets skill development and behavior change. They serve different purposes.

Is play used during ABA therapy?

Yes. Many ABA sessions—especially for young children—use play-based techniques to teach skills in a fun, natural way.

Who decides if both therapies are needed?

This is typically decided through assessments and conversations between parents, ABA professionals, and other therapists involved in the child’s care.

Is It Okay to Combine Play Therapy and ABA Therapy?

Yes—play therapy and ABA therapy can absolutely be combined.

When used together, they often complement each other well, especially for children who learn best through play and connection. Many families find that blending these approaches creates a more balanced, child-centered therapy experience.

How play therapy and ABA therapy work together

Both therapies support child development, but they do it in different ways. When combined thoughtfully, they can strengthen outcomes without competing with each other.

What each approach brings

ABA therapy focuses on teaching skills and reducing challenging behaviors using evidence-based strategies.
Play therapy uses play as a way to help children express emotions, build social skills, and feel safe.

ABA therapy is more structured, while play therapy is more open-ended. Together, they can meet both emotional and behavioral needs.

Why combining them can help

Before blending therapies, it helps to understand the “why.” A combined approach may:

Increase motivation and engagement during ABA sessions
Support emotional regulation alongside skill-building
Help children generalize skills in a more natural, playful way
Reduce stress or resistance to therapy

Many ABA providers already use play-based strategies within sessions, especially for younger children. Adding formal play therapy can deepen that impact.

What to keep in mind

Not every child needs both therapies. The decision should always be based on the child’s goals, needs, and learning style. Communication between providers is key. When therapists collaborate, progress is usually smoother and more consistent.

Our approach at Connect N Care ABA

At Connect N Care ABA, we believe therapy should fit the child—not the other way around. That’s why our ABA services are flexible, compassionate, and family-centered.

We proudly serve families across North Carolina and Virginia, offering:

ABA therapy at home for learning in familiar spaces
School-based ABA therapy to support success in the classroom
Center-based ABA therapy in a structured, supportive setting
ABA parent training so families feel confident supporting progress at home

If you’re exploring whether ABA therapy, play-based approaches, or a combination is right for your child, we’re here to help.

Reach out today to get started or ask questions. We’d love to support your family’s journey.

FAQs

Can play therapy replace ABA therapy?
Not usually. Play therapy focuses more on emotional expression, while ABA therapy targets skill development and behavior change. They serve different purposes.
Is play used during ABA therapy?
Yes. Many ABA sessions—especially for young children—use play-based techniques to teach skills in a fun, natural way.
Who decides if both therapies are needed?
This is typically decided through assessments and conversations between parents, ABA professionals, and other therapists involved in the child’s care.