38 | ESDM, ABA & Neurodiversity-Affirming Autism Care | Will Martin
Families often hear the term ABA early in the autism journey, but not every ABA-based approach looks the same. For parents trying to make thoughtful therapy decisions, that can be confusing. What does respectful, play-based, family-centered autism care actually look like? And how do you know whether a provider’s approach aligns with your values?
In this episode of the Autism Family Resource Podcast, Brian Keene talks with Will Martin from SOAR Autism Center about the Early Start Denver Model, also known as ESDM. Will explains how this approach differs from more traditional styles of ABA, why play and relationship matter so much in early intervention, and how SOAR works to provide care that is individualized, interdisciplinary, and more aligned with neurodiversity-affirming values.
This is a longer conversation, but an important one for families who want a better understanding of autism therapy options and a clearer sense of what questions to ask when choosing a provider.
Listen to the Full Episode
Listen to this episode for a thoughtful conversation about ESDM, autism therapy, play-based intervention, family values, and what neurodiversity-affirming care can look like in practice.
Memorable Quote
“Feel empowered to ask tough questions about what type of therapy and what type of approach you might experience at different providers.”
In This Episode We Discuss
What the Early Start Denver Model is
How ESDM differs from more traditional forms of ABA
Why play-based therapy can be effective for young autistic children
How communication challenges and behavior are often connected
What SOAR’s assessment and therapy process looks like
How speech, OT, and behavior services can work together
What neurodiversity-affirming care means in an autism clinic
Why provider fit matters so much for families
Key Themes From the Conversation
Not all ABA looks the same
One of the most important themes in this episode is that the term ABA can mean very different things depending on the provider. Will explains how the Early Start Denver Model differs from more rigid, table-based approaches by using play, shared attention, motivation, and natural interaction as the foundation for learning.
Behavior is communication
Another strong point in the conversation is the reminder that behavior is often a message. Rather than seeing aggression, self-injury, or meltdowns as problems to shut down, Will describes how their team tries to understand what the child is communicating and support more effective ways for that child to express needs, feelings, and preferences.
Families deserve transparency
Brian and Will also talk about how important it is for families to ask direct questions when considering therapy services. Parents deserve to know what happens in sessions, how goals are chosen, whether their child’s interests are respected, and how providers respond when a child says no with their voice or body.
Neurodiversity-affirming care requires real changes
This conversation does not just use the phrase neurodiversity-affirming care as a label. It explores what that can actually mean in practice: centering child assent, avoiding force, respecting different communication styles, and choosing goals that support independence without trying to erase autistic identity.
Common Questions Parents Ask
What is the Early Start Denver Model?
The Early Start Denver Model is a play-based, developmentally informed therapy model designed for young autistic children. It blends relationship-building, communication support, and skill development within natural play and routines rather than relying only on rigid drills.
How is this different from traditional ABA?
Traditional ABA may sometimes use more repetitive, highly structured teaching methods. ESDM is designed to feel more natural and interactive, using play, shared activities, and a child’s interests as the foundation for teaching and learning.
How do I know if a provider is a good fit for my family?
Ask questions about values, goals, communication, and how the provider responds to behavior and child resistance. A good fit usually feels collaborative, transparent, and respectful of both the child and the family.
Why This Conversation Matters for Families
Many parents are trying to sort through therapy recommendations while also carrying the emotional and practical weight of supporting their child. That can make it hard to know what questions to ask or what kind of care will truly feel right. This episode gives families more language, more clarity, and more confidence to explore options thoughtfully.
It also highlights something important: children can be supported without being pressured to fit a narrow mold. Therapy can still have structure, goals, and meaningful progress while honoring a child’s communication style, sensory needs, and individuality.
Resources Mentioned
SOAR Autism Center
Early Start Denver Model
ESDM curriculum checklist
About the Guest
Will Martin is a behavior analyst and Head of Early Start Denver Model Implementation at SOAR Autism Center. He has worked in home, school, clinic, and research settings and is passionate about making autism care more individualized, developmentally appropriate, and family-centered.
Soar Autism Center
Related Resources for Parents
If you found this episode helpful, you may also enjoy these resources:
Neurodiversity-Affirming Therapy: Supporting Your Child’s Unique Strengths
When to Seek Help: Signs Your Child May Need Occupational, Speech, or Physical Therapy
Sensory Processing 101: Understanding Your Child’s Sensory Needs
Positive Behavior Strategies for Neurodivergent Children at Home and School
Explore more parent resources at:
https://pureheartstherapy.com/blog
