‘Applied Behavior Analysis’ Found to Aid Skill Development and Lower System Costs for Adults with Complex Needs in Massachusetts
The Arc of Massachusetts Releases Findings from Successful State-Funded Pilots
WALTHAM, Mass. (Nov. 19, 2025) – The Arc of Massachusetts (The Arc), a statewide organization dedicated to enhancing the lives of individuals with autism and intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) and their families, today released new findings from two state-funded pilot initiatives that demonstrated the qualitative value and cost-effectiveness of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA).
ABA is an evidence-based approach to therapy for adults with autism and IDD that focuses on teaching meaningful and age-appropriate skills while reducing behaviors that limit independence or put individuals at risk. The pilots, conducted in partnership with Advocates for Autism of Massachusetts (AFAM) and several community providers, show that ABA supports can help individuals build skills and while reducing long-term system costs by avoiding crisis-based or institutional responses.
“These two pilots, made possible by strong advocacy and legislative support, collectively present an undeniable case,” said Maura Sullivan, CEO of The Arc of Massachusetts. “Expanding adult access to Applied Behavior Analysis, coupled with investment in workforce training, creates a powerful, cost-effective model for addressing complex behaviors and strengthening our statewide system of care.”
Access to effective behavioral supports through MassHealth, the state’s Medicaid program, drastically declines for individuals with autism and IDD once they turn 21, which creates a critical gap as the number and acuity of adults with complex challenging behaviors continue to rise. The state approved two targeted initiatives – the first in 2023 and the second in 2025 – to evaluate the impact of ABA services.
“I appreciated the support of my colleagues in helping me to secure funding to make the completion of such a meaningful pilot program possible” said Sen. John Keenan (D-Quincy). “The additional training for crucial caregivers and this study’s results play critical roles in enabling an invaluable community partner to fulfill its vital mission even more effectively.”
The two pilots, implemented by The Arc of Massachusetts in partnership with Amego, Inc., May Institute, Melmark, Nashoba Learning Group, Northeast Arc, and Road to Responsibility found:
- Adults between the ages of 22 and 68 in day habilitation programs learned an average of five new skills per month, over six months, in areas like communication, hygiene, and independent living;
- Participants experienced a 23% reduction in maladaptive behaviors, such as self-injury, aggression, and elopement;
- More than 400 direct support professionals received training in ABA-informed practices, and providers reported greater confidence in addressing complex behavior and reducing burnout; and
- The immediate use of ABA strategies led to observable client progress and increased independence in daily routines.
To build on these demonstrated improvements, The Arc of Massachusetts supports bills H1351 and S871 that would ensure that adults who are covered by MassHealth and eligible through medical determination can continue to access vital ABA services.
“We thank the Legislature for recognizing the immediate need through this funding, but temporary fixes are no longer sufficient,” added Sullivan. “Adults with autism and complex needs deserve permanent, accessible, and high-quality behavioral treatment. The Arc of Massachusetts, AFAM, and our partners will continue to advocate for the permanent and adequate funding necessary to make these life-changing services a reality for all adults who need them.”
About The Arc of Massachusetts
The Arc of Massachusetts (The Arc) is a statewide organization dedicated to enhancing the lives of individuals with autism and intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) and their families. Through advocacy, education, and outreach, The Arc works to ensure that individuals with disabilities have the opportunity to lead fulfilling lives and participate fully in their communities. Visit www.thearcofmass.org to learn more.
Contact:
Izzy Nickel, Ball Consulting Group, LLC
Phone: 617-243-9950; Email: izzy@ballcg.com
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