CHAPEL HILL, N.C. — June 2026 — Therapy Smarts, a leading pediatric therapy provider serving children and families across North Carolina, will host an ABA Advocacy Event on Friday, June 19, from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. at its Chapel Hill clinic located at 1130 Weaver Dairy Road. The event will focus on House Bill 696 and its potential impact on children with autism, their families, and healthcare providers throughout North Carolina.
The event will be co-hosted by North Carolina Senator Natalie Murdock and will bring together parents, grandparents, caregivers, educators, healthcare providers, Board Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBAs), Registered Behavior Technicians (RBTs), pediatric therapists, and community advocates for an open discussion about the future of autism services in North Carolina.
“Every day, we see the life-changing impact therapy services have on children and families,” said Avani Shah, M.Ed., CCC-SLP, Founder and CEO of Therapy Smarts. “For many children with autism, Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy is not optional—it is medically necessary care that helps children communicate, regulate emotions, reduce unsafe behaviors, build relationships, develop independence, and successfully participate at home, school, daycare, and in their communities.”
Families often share that therapy has helped their child:
• Say “I love you” for the first time
• Safely attend school or daycare
• Sleep through the night
• Reduce aggressive or self-injurious behaviors
• Learn to communicate wants and needs
• Participate in family outings and everyday activities
• Gain independence and confidence
House Bill 696 introduces significant changes related to ABA therapy oversight, treatment authorizations, telehealth services, provider requirements, and utilization reviews. These proposed changes have raised concerns among families and providers who fear the legislation could create barriers to accessing medically necessary autism services.
The June 19 event will provide an opportunity for attendees to learn more about the legislation, hear from elected officials, listen to parent experiences, and discuss ways to advocate for continued access to quality therapy services for North Carolina children.
Senator Natalie Murdock will speak alongside Therapy Smarts leadership and parents whose children have benefited from ABA therapy and other pediatric therapy services. Families will have an opportunity to share personal stories and discuss how therapy services have impacted their children’s growth, development, and quality of life.
“We believe every child deserves access to the services they need to thrive,” said Shah. “This event is about bringing our community together, ensuring families understand what is at stake, and making sure the voices of children and families are heard.”
The event will be held in the Therapy Smarts sensory gym at the Chapel Hill clinic and is free to attend. Community members are encouraged to RSVP by June 15.
Event Details
ABA Advocacy Event: House Bill 696 and the Impact on NC Children, Families, and Providers
Date: Friday, June 19
Time: 9:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.
Location: Therapy Smarts – Chapel Hill
1130 Weaver Dairy Road
Chapel Hill, NC 27514
Who Should Attend
• Parents, grandparents, and caregivers
• BCBAs and RBTs
• Occupational, speech, and physical therapists
• Local healthcare providers
• Educators and school personnel
• Community advocates and supporters
About Therapy Smarts
Celebrating its 10th anniversary in 2026, Therapy Smarts is a therapist-owned pediatric practice serving children and families throughout the Triangle. With locations in Chapel Hill and Durham, Therapy Smarts provides Occupational Therapy, Speech Therapy, Physical Therapy, ABA Therapy, Mental Health Services, and Psychological Evaluations. The organization is dedicated to helping children turn challenges into triumphs through compassionate, evidence-based care delivered under one roof.
Media Contact
Tildsley McManus
PR & Marketing Manager
Therapy Smarts
pr@therapysmarts.net
www.therapysmarts.net
Learn more about NC Senator, Natalie Murdock. As a native North Carolinian, UNC alum, and local elected official, Natalie has spent a lifetime learning about the strengths and challenges of North Carolina. With over a decade of work experience in transportation, economic development, and government affairs, Natalie entered the public realm as a locally elected official. Now, she is an elected senator and running for re-election in November 2022 to continue pursuing a progressive agenda that will transform the lives of hardworking North Carolinians.
Every child grows and develops at their own pace, but pediatric milestones help parents understand if their child is on track with important skills like communication, movement, play, learning, and social-emotional development. Recognizing red flags early can make a big difference in getting children the support they need to grow, learn, and thrive. Check your child’s progress with our Developmental Milestone Checklist and learn when it may be time to reach out for help.
If you have any questions about our services, would like to learn more about how we support children and families, or are ready to schedule an appointment with one of our therapists, we’re one phone call away. Our team would be happy to talk through your concerns, answer any questions, and guide you through the next steps.
Please feel free to call our main office line at (919) 378-1340 to connect with us today. We look forward to supporting your family.
ABOUT THERAPY SMARTS
Through play therapy, exploration of their environment, and joyful engagement- Therapy Smarts of Durham and Chapel Hill help improve your child’s communication, motor, behavior, & social skills. Click below to learn more about our services.
JOIN OUR TEAM
Are you a pediatric therapist looking to grow your career with a supportive, innovative team? Join Therapy Smarts of Durham and Chapel Hill — recently ranked #1,792 on Inc. Magazine’s 2025 Inc. 5000 list of fastest-growing companies in America!
We’re passionate about helping children thrive — and helping our team members do the same. Apply today!
