38 | ESDM, ABA & Neurodiversity-Affirming Autism Care | Will Martin

What does autism therapy look like when it is truly play-based, family-centered, and grounded in a child's individual strengths? In this episode of the Autism Family Resource Podcast, Brian Keene talks with Will Martin from SOAR Autism Center about the Early Start Denver Model, often called ESDM, and how it offers a different approach from more traditional forms of ABA therapy. Will shares how he entered the autism field, what drew him to early intervention, and why ESDM stood out as a developmentally informed, relationship-based model for supporting young autistic children. The conversation explores how SOAR approaches communication, play, challenging behavior, family collaboration, and neurodiversity-affirming care. Brian and Will also talk openly about some of the concerns families have around ABA and how providers can take a more respectful, individualized approach. This episode is especially helpful for families who are trying to understand different therapy options, ask better questions when choosing a provider, and find care that aligns with their values. Topics Covered What the Early Start Denver Model is and how it differs from traditional ABA Will's journey into autism care and early intervention How play-based therapy can support communication and learning What discrete trial training is and why some families seek alternatives Common signs a child may benefit from autism therapy or assessment How SOAR structures assessment, scheduling, and interdisciplinary care What neurodiversity-affirming autism care can look like in practice Why families should ask hard questions when choosing a provider Timestamps 00:00 Introduction and episode overview 01:21 What families may take away from the episode 04:23 ESDM compared to traditional discrete trial training 10:34 How SOAR assesses children and builds treatment plans 15:04 Signs a child may benefit from autism therapy 25:29 Neurodiversity-affirming care and concerns around ABA Memorable Quote "Feel empowered to ask tough questions about what type of therapy and what type of approach you might experience at different providers." About the Guest Will Martin is a behavior analyst and Head of Early Start Denver Model Implementation at SOAR Autism Center. He has worked across home, school, clinic, and research settings and is passionate about providing developmentally informed, individualized care for autistic children and their families. Resources Mentioned SOAR Autism Center Early Start Denver Model ESDM curriculum checklist About the Host Brian Keene is the host of the Autism Family Resource Podcast and the founder of Pure Hearts Therapy, a neurodiversity-affirming pediatric therapy practice that supports children and families through compassionate, practical care. Subscribe & Connect If this episode resonated with you, please consider sharing it with another parent who might benefit from this conversation. Listen and subscribe to the Autism Family Resource Podcast: https://pod.link/1591840956 Explore more resources for families at: https://pureheartstherapy.com