In this episode of Acorns to Oaks, we explore how medications are used alongside ABA therapy and what parents should know about benefits, risks, and side effects.

From ADHD stimulants like Ritalin to antipsychotic medications often prescribed for autism-related behaviors, we break down how these treatments work, what changes you might see, and why monitoring is essential.

We also discuss common side effects such as appetite suppression, sleep disruption, and behavioral changes, as well as more serious risks that require close attention. This episode highlights the importance of collaboration between parents, behavior analysts, and medical providers to ensure safe and effective care.

If you are navigating ABA therapy, autism support, or ADHD treatment, this conversation will help you ask better questions and make more informed decisions for your child.

In our very first episode of Acorns to Oaks, we start at the foundation, what ABA is, what it isn’t, and where it’s headed. After returning from a recent industry conference, we dive into one of the most important emerging conversations in the field: the shift toward value-based care.

As behavior analysts, we believe in growth, evolution, and asking better questions. So in this episode, we explore the promises and potential risks of tying care to outcomes, and what that could mean for families, providers, and access to services.

This conversation sets the stage for everything to come… grounded in compassion, curiosity, and a commitment to doing what’s best for every child and family we serve.