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We turn hide-and-seek, arts & crafts, and snack breaks into learning adventures
We specialize in early intervention ABA therapy for children ages 5 and under in the Bay Area, with every session delivered directly by a BCBA.
Our Approach
Growth Happens Here
Applied Behavior Analysis is a science our team knows well. It helps us understand why kids do what they do, how their surroundings affect them, and what helps them learn. But we are not a traditional ABA provider focused only on clinical hours, data collection, and what the medical model dictates for care.
Families trust us to support their little ones because our care is delivered directly by a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA), and our approach is grounded in neuroaffirming values.
When you receive care directly from a BCBA, you’re accessing support from a therapist who has dedicated years to their education and clinical training. Every decision made in session, big or small, is rooted in that expertise and is never a one-size-fits-all checklist.
With us, ABA therapy is an intentional playdate. The BCBA balances building communication, social, play, and daily living skills, all while your child is being their most authentic and joyful self. The key parts of that balance are an established connection with your child and their interests, along with a setting where they feel safe enough to try, stumble, and grow.
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Naturalistic Developmental Behavioral Interventions
Drawing on ABA, child development, and early learning principles, we use Naturalistic Developmental Behavioral Interventions (NDBI) to follow your child’s lead. Instead of pulling your child away from what they’re doing or using structured drills, we build learning into the moments they’re already enjoying.
Whether it’s stacking magnet tiles, blowing bubbles, or pretending to be dragons, we meet your child right where they are. While they’re having fun, we’re teaching real skills - like requesting, sharing, and turn taking - woven naturally into play.
Early Start Denver Model
We also use strategies influenced by the Early Start Denver Model (ESDM), one of the most effective, evidence-based approaches to early intervention. Although the ESDM was originally developed for young children on the autism spectrum, its strategies and curriculum are effective for a broader range of developmental needs.
Joint Activity Routines (JARs) are the ESDM’s core teaching structure. During JARs, we join your child in play as an equal partner, not just a teacher. Through a shared rhythm of play during activities like making homemade slime or dressing-up as astronauts, we can plant multiple learning moments for new skills to take root. The JAR establishes connection over compliance and supports your child’s play in becoming powerful, yet subtle, opportunities for growth.
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Care with Assent
Our team uses an assent-based approach, meaning your child always has a say, and we never force participation in activities that don’t bring them joy.
While implementing safe boundaries, we create a fun learning environment that suits your child. A session might look like a tea party, playing with trains, or rolling down the hill in your backyard.
By offering choices and consistent expectations, we support their independence, increase motivation and flexibility, and help them build confidence in making decisions.
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Behavior Change
During each session, we are observing your child to understand what their behavior is telling us. If your child cries whenever they’re building with blocks, we’ll look closely at what’s behind it.
There are many things your child may be trying to tell us. For some children, they may need help stacking their blocks or they may want you to notice what they’ve built.
When we understand what your child’s behavior is communicating, we shift away from thinking, “I’ll just throw these blocks away.” Instead, we intentionally teach new, meaningful ways for your child’s needs to be met in these everyday moments.
As your child learns to ask for help, or learns to tell you to look at what they’re building, these small changes in behavior add up. Positive behavior change brings less stress, and a life that feels calmer, happier, and more connected for everyone.
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Hi! I’m Gabrielle Fairbairn.
BCBA and Founder
In 2022, I founded Summit Behavior Company with the mission to bring families modern, compassionate, and individualized ABA therapy.
With over 20 years of experience, I’ve led large clinical teams at nationwide organizations and supported the expansion of ABA services across multiple states. My work spans early intervention, nonprofit programs, adult residential services, rural and urban communities, corporate leadership, and community advocacy—giving me a well-rounded understanding of how to support children and their families in any setting.
Throughout my career, I’ve seen how effective ABA can be when it’s grounded in empathy, play, and respect for each child’s individuality. Kids learn best when they’re free to be kids—and that belief guides everything we do at Summit.
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Bachelor’s degree in Human Development and Family Studies from the University of Illinois
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Master’s degree in Applied Behavior Analysis with a focus on autism from Ball State University
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Board Certified Behavior Analyst since 2014
Our Services
How we support your family
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In-Home ABA Therapy
Build the skills that matter most to your family with play-based learning that happens where your child feels most comfortable.
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School-Based ABA Therapy
Get support for your child’s learning alongside peers and early school-readiness activities at their preschool or daycare.
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Caregiver Coaching
Learn practical ABA strategies to confidently navigate everyday challenges and nurture your child’s development and regulation.
