Optimal Beginnings, LLC

Optimal Beginnings, LLC An Applied Behavior Analysis & Speech and Language consulting and treatment firm serving MD, DC, and NoVA. Assessment is on-going.

We provide psychometric, academic, and skill testing in multiple cognitive, communication and social functioning domains to develop comprehensive treatment programs unique to each individual client. Client advocacy, Family Support Services, Social Skills Development, Speech and Language services, IEP Goal Development Consulting, Family and Caregiver Training, and Support Groups are just a few examples of the interdisciplinary wrap-around scope of services offered for complete client care.

When Dr. Dana first started working in the Applied Behavior Analysis industry, she worked with a young boy who had been ...
01/29/2026

When Dr. Dana first started working in the Applied Behavior Analysis industry, she worked with a young boy who had been through a lot more than most adults in his very young life.

While he was very smart, he was often only seen for his behavior, his outbursts, and lack of impulse control.

But, after taking the time to see his strengths and focus on rewarding him for his success (rather than blame for his struggles), he started to really shine.

And it solidified in her just how important the need for ABA and behavioral therapy is for children and their parents.

To show them that, just because they might have difficult chapters, torn pages, and layered stories that don’t always follow the normal plot, that they are still smart, independent, and capable of thriving in life, school, and beyond.

Come see what OB can do to help your child become more independent in school, life, and beyond - Fill out our intake form today.

https://www.optimalbeginning.com/

Yep, we brought slithering snakes and lizards to our clinics...and here's why.Be sure to read through the slides to see ...
01/28/2026

Yep, we brought slithering snakes and lizards to our clinics...and here's why.

Be sure to read through the slides to see some of the photos from our last Reptile Day!

We’ve held Reptile Day at Optimal Beginnings more than once because of the awesome benefits it has on independence in children.

What makes these days even more special is that each of the reptiles’ owner is one of our very own team members, so they’re already familiar with handling and showing them to the kids!

We can't wait for the next one!

https://www.optimalbeginning.com/

With a holistic approach, our OB Method addresses six components that create an Optimal Beginning for your child.Unlike ...
01/26/2026

With a holistic approach, our OB Method addresses six components that create an Optimal Beginning for your child.

Unlike the standard one-on-one approach, we intertwine real-world skill building into our ABA and speech therapies to maximize your child’s development and independence.

The goal?

To navigate the world with confidence.

When your child and family come to OB, you can expect:

- Individualized Learning Plans
- Group Activities With Purpose
- Parent Coaching and Support Services
- A Service Model That Leads to Success

No matter what age, whether 18 months or 17 years old, we CAN promise that your child will become more independent through our integrated services program.

Want to see if OB is the right next step for your child? Fill out the intake form on our website - Simply click the link in our bio today!



https://www.optimalbeginning.com/

01/23/2026

How our team preps activities for the week?

Silently...

They sure are focused on getting everything ready!

Watch more of our activities videos on our profile to see some of the activities we do with the kids.

https://www.optimalbeginning.com/

Haaaaave you met Heather?!Heather is one of our awesome BCBAs here at the clinic!She is always telling parents, "Pick yo...
01/22/2026

Haaaaave you met Heather?!

Heather is one of our awesome BCBAs here at the clinic!

She is always telling parents, "Pick your battles and remember to take care of yourself too!"

With work as rewarding as hers, Heather believes the best part of her days are recognizing the small steps and highlighting the progress made.

But, her absolute favorite thing about her job?

The people! Their support, enthusiasm, and encouragement are what keep her going.

If you haven't had a chance to meet Heather yet, be sure to give her a wave the next time you see her!

Virginia & Maryland parents, we are now accepting new families! Let OB support the growth and fun in your child’s learning future - Fill out the intake form on our website today (link in bio).

https://www.optimalbeginning.com/

01/20/2026

This is exactly what progress is like for children, especially those with autism or another behavioral diagnosis.

There’s not always a “flick of a light” moment in their progress.

Sometimes it looks like a dimmer that gradually slides up, new words learned or social skills obtained. Small strides taken.

And other times it looks like sliding down, having an outburst in the car or a challenging day trying to do a physical activity.

But, there’s nothing wrong with this. It’s progress either way!

We learn from mistakes, we have hard days. But we always know the lightswitch can slide up again, if we just keep pushing and trying.

So, when you see your child struggling or having a hard time, remember, they’re progressing in their way, learning in their way, at their own pace.

Just be there to help them turn the lights brighter again. ⭐

https://www.optimalbeginning.com/

Supporting families is second nature to us!Our goal is to always provide a safe, comfortable, and uplifting space for ou...
01/19/2026

Supporting families is second nature to us!

Our goal is to always provide a safe, comfortable, and uplifting space for our clients to feel like they not only receive the educated, hands-on approach they need, but also the care and place of belonging they deserve.

Don't take it from us, though. Take it from the happy and thriving kids and their families who have shared their experience.

https://www.optimalbeginning.com/

01/16/2026

To the rescue!

These poor *stuffed* animals were in need of saving.

🎭 Dramatic play of animal rescue teaches children:

- Safety steps and protocols in real-life situation
- Natural care and kindness towards others
- Use of safety kit tools, like bandages and slings

This week, our kids were the heroes. And they got to see and feel that in these activities!

Our offices are desighned to replicate a more comfortable, classroom-like setting. Learn more about our integrated services by visiting our website - link in bio

https://www.optimalbeginning.com/

We teach ABA to your child's educators!Our team has partnered with Cedar Tree Academy, an early childhood public charter...
01/08/2026

We teach ABA to your child's educators!

Our team has partnered with Cedar Tree Academy, an early childhood public charter school in the DC area, to conduct in-school workshops that help teach ABA techniques to teachers.

Slide through to see some of the shots from our latest discussion!

These workshops are designed to help teachers feel more confident and equipped to help students with autism, ADHD, and other behavioral diagnosis thrive in the classroom using proven ways of learning through our expert team members.

Having a partnership with schools in our local area allows us to build deeper trust with parents, as well as create an even stronger community who are able to support these families and their children in school, life, and the world around them.

Interested in an in-school workshop? Get in touch by visiting our website (link in bio) now!

https://www.optimalbeginning.com/

Goal setting is easy…It’s knowing which steps to take to reach them that’s the hard part.Thankfully, you have multiple o...
01/07/2026

Goal setting is easy…It’s knowing which steps to take to reach them that’s the hard part.

Thankfully, you have multiple opportunities to attend a Vision Casting event this month here at Optimal Beginnings to help you create a plan to do just that.

But, what exactly is Vision Casting?

These virtual sessions for parents are all about having the chance to get clear on:

▶️ Your family’s goals for the 2026 year
▶️ Your child’s personalized growth objectives with OB
▶️ Where you want to build independence
▶️ What you want daily life to feel like

We will be there to answer any questions, map out your goals, and discuss how OB can help move you toward them with confidence.

OB Parents, RSVP to a Vision Casting event date this month through the portal or event email.

If you're a parent looking for guidance through your child's behavioral diagnosis and think we might be the right fit, fill out the intake form on our website today!



https://www.optimalbeginning.com/

01/02/2026

We all know skills are taught in the classroom, but did you know that skills are BUILT and DEFINED in the real world?

Take bowling, for example.

Research shows (ABA Centers of FL) that recreational ball play and structured activities *ahem, bowling* can help children with autism improve their:

- Coordination
- Attention
- Turn-taking
- Social skills

Our clinics took a community field trip to the Lucky Strike Bowling Alley to give kids the opportunity to learn, play, explore, and simply exist in a social setting that is also a lesson in disguise. And it was a big hit! 🙌🎳

Plus, the parents really got to see just how possible it is to go on family outings and have fun without it always being stressful.

Want to join in the fun here at OB? Fil out the intake form on our website now!

https://www.optimalbeginning.com/

What will 2026 bring?This year can be one of the best for your family, with new goals to reach, milestones to hit, and g...
01/01/2026

What will 2026 bring?

This year can be one of the best for your family, with new goals to reach, milestones to hit, and growth to be made.

There will be cloudy days. You know this by now.

But, those days don’t define a year.

They don’t overshadow the brilliantly bright days. The ones where:

⭐ Your kiddo communicates their emotions with you, whether through a new word, or by using a picture board
⭐ Transitions go smoothly because your child feels comfortable and prepared when they’re with you
⭐ You don’t feel overwhelmed or “not cut out for this” when the day is over

Because what can truly make this year incredible is HOPE.

Imagine hope as an umbrella on a rainy day. A warm coat when it’s snowing.

And your child? The shining star on a clear night.

Whatever you’re feeling about going into this year, remember to have hope and know that we are here to help your child thrive and support you through this journey along the way.

https://www.optimalbeginning.com/

Address

6010 Executive Boulevard
Rockville, MD
20852

Opening Hours

Monday 8:30am - 6:30pm
Tuesday 8:30am - 6:30pm
Wednesday 8:30am - 6:30pm
Thursday 8:30am - 6:30pm
Friday 8:30am - 6:30pm

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