Where deep interests become the bridge to emotional growth.
Too Smart for “Standard” ABA, Too Unique for One-Size-Fits-All Classrooms?
Many gifted autistic children (2e) feel misunderstood. They can discuss black holes or transit systems in detail but may struggle with emotional regulation, flexibility, or navigating social situations.
Traditional ABA often bores them with rote drills, while school environments may not support their sensory needs. At Yoli, we don’t simplify the world for them. We use their intellect to build emotional resilience.
- Intellect as a Strength: We don’t take away their special interests; we use them. If your child loves physics, we use physics to teach perspective-taking and frustration tolerance.
- Cognitive Play: Our clinicians are trained to engage in high-level play that challenges your child intellectually while supporting their emotional development.
Why Families Choose Yoli
| Traditional / For-Profit ABA | The Yoli Way |
|---|---|
| Prioritizes billable hours over meaningful outcomes | Prioritizes your child’s well-being — we’re a nonprofit, not driven by shareholder returns |
| High therapist caseloads (30+ clients per BCBA) lead to burnout and inconsistent care | Low, manageable caseloads so your therapist can give focused, personalized attention |
| Compliance-focused: Teaching children to follow instructions and conform to social norms | Autonomy-focused: Building independence, self-advocacy, and honoring neurodiversity |
| Curriculum-driven: One-size-fits-all programs | Child-led learning: We follow your child’s interests (trains, art, space) to teach new skills |
| Table-time drills that can feel like work | Play-based sessions where learning happens through joy |
| High staff turnover (the best clinicians leave or go out-of-network) | Stable, passionate team — we retain top clinicians with competitive pay and healthy workloads |
| Leadership with little clinical expertise focused on growth and profits | BCBA-led organization committed to clinical excellence and ethical practice |
| Families feel like customers in a transactional relationship | Families become part of a supportive community with regular family gatherings |
🟢 We’re Currently Accepting New Families
Yoli maintains low caseloads to ensure quality care. Due to high demand in the East Bay, spots fill quickly. If you’re considering ABA therapy for your child, now is the time to schedule your free consultation.
Serving families in Albany, Berkeley, El Cerrito, Kensington, and surrounding areas.
A Space Where Their Mind is Met
We understand the unique paradox of high cognition and high support needs. Whether your child has a diagnosis of Autism (ASD) or ADHD, we see their potential, not just a label.
- No Rote Drills: We abandon the flashcards. Learning happens through naturalistic, intrinsic motivation.
- Autonomy & Respect: We honor your child’s “no” and teach them how to advocate for their needs respectfully, rather than demanding compliance.
The Support You Need
Raising a 2e child is a unique journey. We are here to partner with you.
- Parent Coaching: Learn how to advocate for your child’s unique brain in school and community settings.
- Low Sensory Environment: Our clinic is designed to be calming, not chaotic, respecting your child’s sensory profile.
Let’s Connect
We are currently accepting new 2e families in Albany, Berkeley, El Cerrito, and surrounding areas. If you’re looking for a partner who “gets” your child’s brilliance and their struggles, let’s talk.
Accessible Care for All Families
- We accept most major insurance plans
- Vendorized with the Regional Center of the East Bay (RCEB), Contra Costa Health Plan (CCHP), Alameda Alliance, and Partnership HealthPlan (PHC)
- MediCal approved
- We offer a sliding fee scale for families without insurance
- We’re committed to never turning families away due to cost
Questions about coverage? We’ll help you navigate your benefits — just ask during your free consultation call.
Meet our Clinical Director (& Founder)
Hello. I am a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) with an insatiable passion for child development and self-directed learning. I have been working in many settings (homes, schools, clinics and in the community) with children of all ages. I have been supporting parents, teachers, and therapists to better understand and manage behaviors. My passion is to help parents reclaim their role; to understand their child’s behavior and to make changes that allow the family to live in a more cohesive and symbiotic way.
– Laura Kliger, BCBA, MADS
What Happens After You Reach Out?
- 15-Minute Phone Call
We’ll discuss your child’s needs and determine if Yoli is a good fit - Initial Meeting (if we’re a match)
Learn about our approach, ask questions, and meet our team - Intake & Evaluation
We observe your child and develop a personalized treatment plan - Treatment Begins
Play-based sessions at our Albany playspace or in the community, with parent involvement
No pressure at any step — we want to make sure Yoli is right for YOU.
Why Parents Trust Yoli
- BCBA-led organization (Board Certified Behavior Analysts)
- 501(c)(3) nonprofit — mission-driven, not profit-driven
- Evidence-based, neurodiversity-affirming approach
- Low caseloads means consistent, quality care
- Licensed & insured (NPI: 1134010382)
- Physical playspace in Albany (1057 Solano Ave)