FAQ

Learn More About Our Approach

What does “Relationship-Centered Behavioral Support” mean?

Research consistently shows that the quality of the relationship between a child and their support provider is one of the strongest predictors of positive outcomes. We are intentional about creating a flexible, affirming environment where trust, safety, and connection come first.

Our work emphasizes meaningful social interactions, co-regulation, and peer connection—not as side benefits, but as core outcomes. By honoring autonomy, following the child’s lead, and taking a strengths-based approach, we move away from compliance-driven models and toward growth that feels authentic, empowering, and sustainable.

How is your approach different from “traditional ABA”?

We focus on Natural Environment Teaching (NET), incidental opportunities, and contextual learning within play and daily routines. Sessions follow a predictable yet flexible rhythm, giving learners choice, collaboration, and the ability to opt out when needed. Our goal is to support autonomy, dignity, and meaningful relationships.

What ages do you serve?

We support children from toddlerhood through early adolescence. Our focus shifts with developmental needs—whether that’s early play and regulation, peer and social connection, or building independent living skills.

Developmental Play Groups: For toddlers and preschoolers, families can join our sister company, Tots and Tales Miami, where children explore through art, play, and early social learning in a supportive, inclusive environment.
Social Groups (Ages 5–15): At Mustard Seed Academy of Miami, we offer small social group sessions where children and teens build friendship, practice co-regulation, and strengthen social-emotional skills.

How many hours of ABA support will my child receive?

All of our services take place through coaching sessions, trainings/ workshops, small-groups and enrichment classes. Learning happens in natural environments—settings that mirror everyday life—so skills feel meaningful, authentic, and generalize into the learners repertoires beyond our sessions. Most program occur weekly, bi-weekly or a monthly basis for 1-3 hours at a time.

We do not provide comprehensive ABA programs with high-hour recommendation.

What is Neurodiversity-Affirming Care?

Neurodiversity-affirming care recognizes and celebrates the natural differences in how we all think, feel, and learn. Instead of pressuring children to appear neurotypical, we focus on supporting authentic communication, regulation, self-advocacy, and connection in ways that honor their individuality.

At Mindful Behavior Connections, this means:

Autonomy and assent are always respected
Eye contact is never required
Gestures, AAC, scripts, and signs are valued equally to speech
Children’s voices, perspectives, and values guide treatment decisions
Stimming and repetitive behaviors are accepted and encouraged when they support regulation and do not cause harm to the child or others; when needed, we collaborate with children to balance their regulation needs with social comfort. If stereotypic behavior is not problematic for the individual, professionals should not target these behaviors for reduction
Special interests are embraced as strengths and used as pathways for engagement and learning
Sensory needs are accommodated, with co-regulation strategies and flexible environments

Where do sessions take place?

Currently, sessions are held at Mustard Seed Academy of Miami in South Miami, FL 33143. Exact address will be provided upon sign up to protect the privacy of our students.

Parent Coaching session occur remotely.

What qualifications do your staff have?

All services are overseen by a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA). Our program facilitators and guides include BCBAs, RBTs, and behavior support staff, all trained in neurodiversity-affirming and trauma-informed practices.

What if my child isn’t ready for a drop-off program?

We offer flexible starts so children can ease into groups at their own pace. Parents are welcome to begin by sitting in during sessions or staying on site in our parent studio—whether that means co-regulating with your child, shaping their participation with gentle transitions, or simply relaxing with a coffee while they explore. As your child begins to feel safe and comfortable, we’ll support them in gradually moving toward more independent participation.

What happens if my child says “no” or doesn’t want to participate?

A child’s “no” is treated as meaningful communication and assent withdrawal. We honor this by pausing expectations, adjusting the environment, and providing space for regulation. Our role is to invite, not force, participation. By modeling developmentally appropriate and functional communication, we help learners build the skills needed to indicate completion, initiate transitions, and/or maintain engagement.

When a child shows us they need space, we step back, co-regulate, and use curiosity and creativity to gently re-engage when it feels safe and comfortable for them. This protects autonomy and sense of safety while preserving the therapeutic relationship. It also helps ensure that skill development is authentic, sustainable, and aligned with meaningful outcomes.

Do you accept insurance or funding?

We currently accept Step Up for Students scholarships and also offer private pay options. Please reach out to discuss your family’s situation—we’ll walk through funding possibilities together.

Do you have a waitlist?

Availability varies depending on family needs and open spaces. If we don’t have an immediate opening, we’ll let you know. If space is available, we’ll work with you to determine whether we’re the right fit to support your child at this time.