Challenging Behavior (Tantrums, Aggression, Elopement)
Challenging behavior is communication. ABA starts by finding out what the behavior gets or avoids for your child, then teaches a safer, more effective replacement.
Therapy at our San Jose & Oakland centers
What you might notice
- Frequent or long tantrums and meltdowns
- Hitting, biting, kicking or throwing
- Self-injury such as head-hitting
- Running away from caregivers (elopement)
- Refusing transitions, demands or new places
Many children show some of these signs without having a condition. A licensed clinician makes any diagnosis; our autism diagnosis & evaluation service is one way to get answers.

How ABA helps
A BCBA runs a functional behavior assessment: what happens before, during and after the behavior. The plan changes the environment, teaches a replacement skill and sets a consistent response for everyone in your child’s life, including you.
Questions parents ask
Can’t find your answer? Talk to our team.
Do you use punishment?
Modern ABA is built on teaching skills and positive reinforcement. Plans focus on understanding why behavior happens and teaching alternatives, with the family involved at every step.
What if the behavior is dangerous right now?
Call us and mention it when you book. If your child is in immediate danger, call 911. Safety planning is part of every behavior program.
What families say about Rori
5.0★★★★★8 Google reviews
“We tried another ABA provider before finding Rori, and the difference has been night and day. Since my son started the program, I've seen significant improvements in him — the kind that remind me why we kept searching for the righ…”
“At the start of this year, my husband and I were completely lost about what the next steps in our son's behavior plan should be. We found Rori and sat down with Kristine Shannon, and from that very first meeting, everything began…”
“We have been so impressed with Rori from the start. Our child has made so much progress in the last 3months. Kristine and Arta came home to make their first observation/assessment. Their presence made us feel so comfortable and un…”
“Very caring and excellent at what they do. Definitely recommend.”
“Absolutely the best ABA provider I have experienced. My son actually made a huge progress in a short amount of time. Any concern I have with him, the BCBA, Kristine, evaluated in person, both my son and I. By observing in person…”