How to Get Clients for ABA Therapy

Let’s Talk Strategies to Get More Clients.

Everything you need to know about getting clients for ABA Therapy. 

For therapists, psychiatrists, and all mental & behavioral healthcare professionals. 

If you’re running an ABA therapy practice, you likely didn’t get into this field because you love marketing. You got into it because you care deeply about helping individuals with autism and developmental disorders thrive. But let’s be real—no matter how passionate or skilled you are, you need clients to keep your doors open.

So… how do you actually get clients for ABA therapy?

The good news is, you don’t need to reinvent the wheel. You just need a smart, sustainable strategy tailored to your audience. At LMR Digital Marketing, we specialize in helping therapy providers like you grow their practices with practical, proven marketing strategies.

Here’s how to get clients for ABA therapy—without burning out or wasting time.

1. Start With Your Online Presence: Make It Easy to Find and Trust You

First things first: when parents are researching services for their child, the internet is usually their first stop. If your website isn’t optimized and your social media presence is non-existent, you’re missing out on serious opportunities.

Key things to focus on:

  • Professional website: Your site should clearly communicate who you help, what services you offer, and how to get started. Include testimonials, credentials, and photos of your staff (when possible) to build trust.

  • SEO optimization: Make sure your website uses keywords like “ABA therapy in [your city],” “autism support services,” and of course, “how to get clients for ABA therapy” (yes, people do search this phrase!). Blog posts, service pages, and even your homepage should all include relevant terms naturally.

  • Google Business Profile: Claim it, optimize it, and update it often. It’s free and super effective at helping local clients find you.

2. Build Strategic Referral Relationships

Word-of-mouth referrals are golden in the world of therapy. That means it’s time to get proactive about building relationships with:

  • Pediatricians

  • Speech and occupational therapists

  • Local schools and special education departments

  • Psychologists and developmental pediatricians

  • Social workers and case managers

How to Get Clients for ABA Therapy

How to make it happen:

Reach out with a short, professional email introducing your practice and offering resources they can share with families. Even better, offer to meet for a quick coffee or Zoom to learn how you can support each other.

Referral relationships take time to build, but once they’re in place, they can lead to a steady flow of ideal clients.

3. Leverage Parent Networks and Community Groups

Parents talk. And if they’ve had a good experience with your ABA services, word-of-mouth referrals can spread fast. But even if you’re new, there are still ways to get in front of families looking for support.

  • Join local Facebook groups. Search for parenting groups, autism support communities, or special needs resource hubs in your area. Contribute meaningfully to conversations without directly advertising.

  • Attend (or host) community events. Think resource fairs, parenting workshops, or sensory-friendly activities. Having a booth or giving a short talk can go a long way.

  • Partner with schools and daycares. Offer to present to staff about ABA therapy or provide free materials for families. It positions you as a helpful resource, not just a business.

4. Offer a Free Consultation

A no-pressure consultation can help families understand what ABA therapy is and whether it’s a good fit. It also gives them a chance to connect with you—because let’s be honest, parents want to work with someone who gets them and their child.

During the consultation, focus on:

  • Listening to their concerns

  • Explaining the basics of ABA in plain language

  • Outlining how you can help (without overpromising)

  • Offering next steps if they choose to move forward

This kind of transparency and care builds trust—and that’s often what leads to a new client.

5. Use Social Media to Educate and Connect

Social media might feel overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. Pick one platform (like Instagram or Facebook) and use it to share useful, relatable content that speaks directly to caregivers.

A few ideas:

  • Short videos explaining ABA concepts

  • Behind-the-scenes peeks at your practice

  • Tips for supporting children with autism at home

  • Inspiring progress stories (with client permission, of course)

People aren’t just looking for a service—they’re looking for someone they can trust. Showing your face, your values, and your expertise helps build that connection.

6. Make Sure Your Practice is Easy to Work With

It might sound simple, but one of the best ways to get (and keep) ABA therapy clients is to make their experience as smooth as possible.

That means:

  • Returning calls and emails promptly

  • Offering flexible scheduling when possible

  • Making the intake process clear and straightforward

  • Helping families navigate insurance or payment options

Even small touches—like having a warm, welcoming waiting room or sending a follow-up email after an intake—can make a big difference in how families feel about working with you.

7. Ask Happy Clients for Referrals or Reviews

Once you’ve worked with a few families who love what you do, ask if they’d be willing to:

  • Leave a review on Google or Facebook

  • Share your info with friends or parenting groups

  • Provide a testimonial for your website

You’d be surprised how many people are happy to help when you’ve made a positive impact on their child’s life.

Final Thoughts

Learning how to get clients for ABA therapy takes time, effort, and a bit of strategy—but you don’t have to do it all at once. Focus on building real relationships, showing up online, and making it easy for families to say “yes” to your services. Over time, the momentum builds, and your caseload grows with it.

And remember: you’re not just “getting clients.” You’re helping families find support, hope, and a better quality of life. That’s powerful stuff.

Need help growing your ABA practice through digital marketing? LMR Digital Marketing can help. From SEO to social media to website design, we specialize in connecting therapy practices with the families who need them. Reach out today to learn more.

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  • Applied Behavior Analysis Companies
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