At Ariel, we view all behavior as communication. That’s why our approach focuses on understanding what someone is trying to express and teaching more effective ways to meet their needs.

Behavioral Services help individuals express themselves in safe, healthy ways, replacing challenging behaviors with positive ones through skill-building and emotional regulation. Services are available for individuals age 16 and up with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD). Our team uses evidence-based techniques to reduce stress, promote safety, and support lasting growth. Many people come to us after trying other supports, like medication, counseling, or speech therapy, and Behavioral Services work alongside them.

Behavior tells a story—and at Ariel, the focus is on understanding that story with curiosity, empathy, and respect. Rather than simply responding to challenging behaviors, our approach recognizes the impact of past experiences and uses that insight to reduce stress. Every intervention begins with the least intrusive strategies, building trust and safety before introducing change. Sessions often start with a simple question: “What do you feel you want to do here today?”

Our team brings specialized expertise through proven Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) techniques. It’s led by a master’s-level Board-Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) and includes Registered Behavior Technicians (RBTs). That expertise works hand in hand with families and Ariel’s therapy team, so positive changes can carry beyond sessions into daily life. For one person who communicates without words, that meant learning to raise a hand instead of pinching to get someone’s attention. The result? Learning spaces where individuals want to be, where growth feels natural, and where real-world progress happens on each person’s own terms.

We personalize plans to meet the unique needs of Members (the people we serve) and their support teams. Here are some of the services we offer:

• Behavior Assessment and Planning | We look at the “why” behind behaviors and create a custom plan to support positive changes. This might include teaching frustration tolerance or social interaction skills.
• Skill Building | From communication and hygiene to problem-solving and daily living skills, we focus on what matters most to the individual.
• Family and Caregiver Support | We offer training, coaching, and tools to help caregivers support progress at home and in everyday life.
• Positive Reinforcement | Using encouragement, praise, and meaningful rewards, we help individuals build self-confidence and lasting habits.

Across all of these, we often build sessions around play and activities each person enjoys.

Members in Behavioral Services may also access other supports that enhance success, such as:

Currently, Behavioral Services are based out of our Grand Junction headquarters. Availability in other areas may vary—contact your regional HQ to see if we can serve you locally or remotely.

For ages 16–20, Medicaid typically funds services through its Pediatric Behavioral Therapies benefit, part of the Early and Periodic Screening, Diagnostic and Treatment (EPSDT) program. Services require a diagnosis of I/DD and a provider referral. This benefit can also cover skills the adult waiver doesn’t, like daily living, job-related, and some school-related skills.

For ages 21 and up, the Developmental Disabilities (DD) Waiver usually covers services. Members can get a referral from their Ariel case manager or reach out directly if not already connected. You don’t need to be enrolled in another Ariel program to receive Behavioral Services.

Private insurance or private pay options may also be available. Our team is happy to walk you through the process and help you find the right fit.

Give us a call at (970) 245-1616. We’ll listen to your needs, answer your questions, and work with you to build a plan that supports success.

If you don’t find what you’re looking for below, feel free to ask your question via our Contact Form.