LEARN Behavioral Expands Reach with Acquisition of BDES

Baltimore, MD – Aug. 16, 2024 – LEARN Behavioral announced today the acquisition of Behavioral Development & Educational Services (BDES), a prominent provider of school-based applied behavior analysis (ABA) therapy in southeastern Massachusetts. This strategic acquisition integrating BDES into the LEARN family, allows the company to expand its reach to an underserved population of Massachusetts.

For more than 25 years, BDES has been a cornerstone in the South Coast region’s education system, providing critical ABA services to more than 500 elementary and middle school students with autism and developmental delays. Founded by Sheldon Wagner, a pioneer in special education, BDES has crafted a multi-tiered clinical model to meet the diverse needs of schools, classrooms, and individual students.

“Joining forces with LEARN Behavioral will allow us to leverage their vast network and resources,” Dr. Wagner said, reflecting on the acquisition. “This will amplify our impact and reach more students who can benefit from our tailored ABA services. We are excited about the shared vision and collaborative opportunities this partnership brings.”

The acquisition promises numerous benefits for students, parents, and schools in the region, including improved access to specialized autism therapy services and enhanced educational resources.

“With similar values and philosophy as LEARN, the addition of BDES will allow all of us to learn from their service delivery model and expand our school-based ABA therapy services throughout Massachusetts and beyond,” said Michael Maloney, founder and CEO of LEARN Behavioral.

Through the addition of BDES, LEARN hopes to expand its Early Intervention (EI) services and learning centers across the South Coast region of Massachusetts.

About LEARN Behavioral

LEARN Behavioral is a leader in the field of applied behavior analysis (ABA) therapy, offering a range of services for children with autism. It has locations nationwide, providing both in-home and center-based services, and is committed to delivering personalized care and support.

About BDES

For more than 25 years, Behavioral Development and Education Services (BDES) has provided applied behavior analysis (ABA) and behavioral services to more than 500 students in 20+ elementary and middle schools across the South Coast region of Massachusetts.