2 minute read
Sponsor Spotlight: BUDDING BEHAVIOR THERAPY
Where children bloom
BY KENDRA ROGERS
Mariah Harrison had gained a lot of experience with ABA therapy during her undergraduate years at Oakland University, as she had worked in the field while pursuing her studies.
After completing her BA in psychology, she went on to earn her master’s degree and became a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA). During her time in graduate school, Mariah and her husband Dwayne welcomed a son and a daughter, both of whom were diagnosed with autism shortly after she earned her certification.
That led the Harrisons to think seriously about opening their own ABA clinic. But their dream was sidelined when Dwayne was tragically killed by a drunk driver in 2021.
After giving birth to their third child (who would also go on to be diagnosed with autism), and while still dealing with immense grief, Mariah
somehow found the strength to move forward. In spring of 2022, she opened Budding Behavior Therapy in Auburn Hills. In an area where socioeconomic conditions often make it hard to find appropriate services, Mariah focuses on ensuring careful care is available for the families who need it most.
Budding Behavior Therapy currently offers speech therapy in addition to ABA services. Mariah’s goal is to add other services needed by the community, including occupational therapy.
Mariah recognizes that even if families aren’t receiving care from her facility, they still need an experienced and kind ear for advice. “Any family can speak to me whether they are getting services here or not,” she said. “They can ask for advice about getting diagnoses, navigating insurance, and how to deal with schools and IEPs”.
When she isn’t working hard on building the business and serving families, Mariah gets to spend time with her own kids. They love to take walks, ride bikes, and watch videos, just like any normal kiddos would!
Mariah Harrison, MS, BCBA, LBA Owner/Clinical Director, Budding Behavior Therapy (248) 622-5191 |mharrison@buddingbehavior.com https://buddingbehavior.hi5aba. com/|Auburn Hills, MI https://www.facebook.com/ buddingbehavior
Mariah Harrison, MS, BCBA, LBA
