Integrated Behavior Services, LLC

07/18/2025

Now accepting Virginia Cardinal Care's newest insurance provider, Humana Healthy Horizons!

05/21/2025

If your child has been diagnosed with autism or another condition on the spectrum, your doctor might have mentioned something called ABA therapy—short for Applied Behavior Analysis.

ABA therapy is a hands-on, one-on-one approach that helps kids build everyday skills—especially things like talking, playing, following directions, and handling emotions. It’s not a “one size fits all” method. Instead, a trained therapist works closely with your child, getting to know them and what they need to grow and thrive.

The main idea behind ABA is to encourage positive behaviors and gently guide away from unhelpful ones—all through rewards, repetition, and real-world practice.

Here’s what ABA can help your child with:

>>Learning how to communicate better, whether that’s with words, gestures, or other tools

>>Getting more comfortable with social situations, like playing with others or following routines

>>Building independence, like learning to wait their turn, control their impulses, or follow simple directions

>>Practicing skills in different places, so your child doesn’t just learn something at therapy—they learn how to use it at home, at school, or wherever they are

>>Reducing harmful behaviors, like head banging or other actions that could hurt themselves or others

The goal of ABA isn’t to “change” who your child is. It’s to help them succeed in the world around them by giving them tools they can use every day—at their own pace, in a way that fits them.

Contact us if you'd like to learn more! 540.962.0051

03/21/2025

Happy World Down Syndrome Day. 🩵

We love celebrating our friends with Down syndrome today and every day!

03/21/2025

Happy World Behavior Analysis Day! Today, we recognize the dedication, passion, and impact of behavior analysts around the world. Your expertise makes a difference every day—let’s celebrate together!

02/13/2025

https://www.facebook.com/BoysTownParenting/videos/691751774553556/?mibextid=YlDasU

02/13/2025

Integrated Behavior Services will open at 9:00 AM on Thursday, 2/13/25!

02/11/2025

02/11/2025

We will be closed Tuesday February 11 due to weather.

10/30/2024

Connect with our local team of behavior technicians for applied behavior analysis (ABA) services for your child!

Melinda (Mindy) Hemp-Gardzinski, BCBA, has over 20 years of experience working with children diagnosed with various needs, including autism and developmental delays.

Mindy is a native from Covington and received her undergraduate degree from Concord University as well as her Master's of Science from ODU with a concentration in Special Education. She further received an Education Specialist Degree from Virginia Tech and holds a postgraduate Professional Teacher's License in Elementary Education and Administration/Supervision. Mindy is a Board Certified Behavior Analyst and is licensed by the Virginia Board of Medicine.

Our facility, located at 125 Mall Road, Covington, was renovated in 2022 with a focus on providing the best environment for children with special needs by our team of kind and caring behavior technicians.

Ready for more information?

Feel free to stop by or give us a call at 540.962.0051.

10/22/2024

Now accepting Molina Healthcare of Virginia!

10/03/2024

Sensory Overload: Examples and Tips for Parents

Sensory overload is a common experience for children with autism, where they become overwhelmed by too much sensory input from their environment. Everyday experiences like bright lights, loud noises, or even the feel of certain clothing can cause distress. For instance, the sound of a blender in the kitchen or fluorescent lights in a store may seem unbearably loud or intense. This heightened sensitivity can lead to meltdowns, anxiety, or a desire to escape the situation.

For parents, it's important to recognize the signs of sensory overload and the specific triggers for their child. Some children might cover their ears, squint, or avoid certain textures, while others may exhibit behavioral changes like agitation or withdrawal. Each child’s sensory profile is different, so it’s helpful to keep a journal of when and where these reactions occur. Common triggers include loud or unexpected noises, crowded places, or the feeling of scratchy fabrics.

Managing sensory overload involves creating a supportive environment and teaching coping strategies. Having a quiet space in your home where your child can retreat when feeling overwhelmed is crucial. Tools like noise-canceling headphones, weighted blankets, or sensory toys can also offer relief. Gradually exposing your child to challenging stimuli in controlled settings can help them build tolerance, but remember to go at their pace. Regular breaks and clear visual supports can also reduce stress in overstimulating environments.

Applied Behavior Analysis can help with identifying and coping with sensory overload. Contact Mindy Hemp-Gardzinski, Ed.S. BCBA, LBA, at Integrated Behavior Services on how ABA can help you and your child. 540.962.0051