Success Story: How ABA Therapy Helped Anna Overcome Sensory Struggles with Brushing Her Hair

At ABLE (Applied Behavioral Learning Experiences), every child’s journey is unique and every success is worth celebrating. Today, we’re sharing the story of Anna (name changed to protect client privacy), a bright and resilient young girl who once struggled deeply with something many take for granted: brushing her hair.

Thanks to consistent support, individualized ABA therapy, and a lot of hard work from Anna and her family, we’re proud to share that Anna is now thriving and preparing to graduate from ABLE.

The Challenge: Daily Hair Brushing Was Overwhelming

When Anna first began ABA therapy with us, brushing her hair was a major challenge. The act of touching her scalp, handling a brush, and tolerating the sensation caused extreme discomfort. Like many children with autism, Anna experienced sensory sensitivities that made daily routines feel overwhelming. What seemed like a small task was, for her, a source of distress and frustration.

Her family tried different types of brushes, special shampoos, and even quick hairstyles—but nothing worked without tears or avoidance. That’s when they turned to ABLE for help.

The ABA Therapy Approach

At our ABA clinics in Lakeland, Tampa, Brandon, and Clearwater, we focus on breaking down difficult tasks into small, achievable steps using evidence-based ABA strategies. For Anna, we developed a personalized plan that included:

• Desensitization techniques to gradually expose her to the brush and brushing motions in a controlled, positive way

• Positive reinforcement using her favorite rewards after small victories

• Visual schedules and social stories to build predictability and reduce anxiety

• Parent training and collaboration, so her caregivers could continue the strategies at home

We also worked closely with her in a calm, sensory-considerate environment to ensure she felt safe and supported.

The Progress: Small Steps Led to Big Wins

At first, just holding the brush or allowing a short touch on her arm was a success. Slowly but steadily, Anna began to tolerate brushing for longer periods. Over time, she gained the ability to brush her own hair independently, something her family once thought might never be possible.

This progress didn’t happen overnight, but with consistency, trust, and the right ABA therapy strategies, Anna achieved her goal.

A Bright Future Ahead

Today, Anna proudly brushes her hair each morning. She even helps pick out her hairstyles and enjoys looking in the mirror at her final look. Her confidence has grown, and so has her independence.

We’re thrilled to share that Anna will be graduating from ABLE soon, having met many of her therapy goals. Her success is a powerful reminder that with the right support and compassionate care, real change is possible.

ABA Therapy Services Across Central Florida

At ABLE, we provide customized ABA therapy for children with autism in Lakeland, Tampa, Clearwater, and Brandon. Our services are available in home, in clinic, in schools, or in the community, wherever your child needs support most. We take most major insurances, and our bilingual team ensures that language is never a barrier to care.

If your child is struggling with routines, communication, behavior, or life skills, our expert team is here to help them grow and succeed, just like Anna.

Call us at (863) 619-2809
Email: intake@applied-behavioral.com

Let’s work together to build a brighter future, one success story at a time.

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