Is it normal to feel overwhelmed when starting ABA therapy?

Yes. Many parents feel stressed, anxious, or unsure at first. New routines and emotions are a big adjustment.

Why do some parents feel guilty during ABA therapy?

Parents often question their choices or worry they aren’t doing enough, even though they are advocating for their child.

Can parent training really help emotionally?

Yes. Understanding behavior and learning practical tools often reduces fear and builds confidence.

Does it get easier over time?

For most families, yes. As routines settle and progress becomes visible, emotional stress often lessens.

Emotional Struggles Parents Face During ABA Therapy

Starting ABA therapy is often filled with hope—but it can also bring a wave of emotions parents don’t always expect. Along with wanting the best for your child, you may feel overwhelmed, exhausted, guilty, or even unsure if you’re doing enough.

Many parents struggle emotionally in the beginning because ABA therapy makes the diagnosis feel “real.” Appointments, assessments, and new routines can be a constant reminder that your child needs extra support. It’s normal to grieve the expectations you once had, even while deeply loving your child exactly as they are.

There’s also the stress of trusting others with your child. Watching ABA therapy sessions, hearing about challenging behaviors, or seeing your child get frustrated can be hard on the heart. Some parents worry: Am I pushing too much? Am I doing the right thing? Why does progress feel slow?

Time and energy play a role too. Balancing work, siblings, appointments, and home life can leave parents feeling stretched thin. And when your child has a tough day, it’s easy to carry that weight emotionally, even after the session ends.

The truth is, these feelings don’t mean you’re weak. They mean you care deeply.

ABA therapy is not just a journey for the child—it’s a journey for the whole family. That’s why emotional support and parent training are so important. Learning why behaviors happen, how progress really looks, and how to celebrate small wins can ease anxiety and build confidence over time.

At Connect N Care ABA, we don’t just focus on your child—we support you, too. Through compassionate guidance and ABA parent training, we help families understand the process, manage stress, and feel empowered instead of alone. Our services across North Carolina and Virginia include in-home, school-based, and center-based ABA therapy, all designed to support the whole family system.

If you’re feeling emotionally drained, uncertain, or simply tired, you’re not failing—you’re human. And you don’t have to go through this alone. Reach out to us. We’re here to support both your child and your heart.

FAQs

Is it normal to feel overwhelmed when starting ABA therapy?
Yes. Many parents feel stressed, anxious, or unsure at first. New routines and emotions are a big adjustment.
Why do some parents feel guilty during ABA therapy?
Parents often question their choices or worry they aren’t doing enough, even though they are advocating for their child.
Can parent training really help emotionally?
Yes. Understanding behavior and learning practical tools often reduces fear and builds confidence.
Does it get easier over time?
For most families, yes. As routines settle and progress becomes visible, emotional stress often lessens.