The Stepping Stones Group, a leading autism and behavioral health provider, has announced a significant autism service provider acquisition with the purchase of the Center for Behavioral, Educational and Social Therapies (CBEST). Based in Los Angeles, CBEST specializes in applied behavioral analysis (ABA) services for students with neurodevelopmental or emotional disorders, including autism spectrum disorder (ASD), intellectual disabilities, and other developmental challenges. Founded in 2002 by Shah Bahador, CBEST has built a strong reputation for quality care. Following this acquisition, Bahador will join Stepping Stones as clinical director and report to the company’s president and chief operating officer of the K-12 practice.
A Nationwide Expansion Through Autism Service Provider Acquisition
Stepping Stones Group, headquartered in Boston, currently operates in 45 states with a workforce of 8,000 employees serving more than 1,000 clients and 300,000 children annually. This autism service provider acquisition adds to a growing portfolio of centers and programs, strengthening the company’s reach and capabilities. Over the past few years, Stepping Stones has executed multiple acquisitions, including HM Therapy, The Southcoast Autism Center, EBS Healthcare, Futures and Behavioral Learning Center, New England ABA, Star of CA, and Ador School Solutions.
Each autism service provider acquisition helps Stepping Stones increase geographic coverage and service capacity to meet the escalating demand for autism and behavioral health services. Since being acquired by private equity firm Five Arrows Capital Partners in 2017, Stepping Stones has used strategic acquisitions as a core growth approach, with the recent CBEST deal being the latest example of this expansion.
Meeting Growing Demand for Specialized Services
The importance of this autism service provider acquisition is underscored by the growing need for autism and developmental disability services nationwide. According to the CDC, 1 in 44 children in the U.S. has been diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder, with boys being four times more likely to receive this diagnosis than girls. Additionally, 1 in 6 children have a developmental disability, emphasizing the broad need for quality behavioral health care.
This autism service provider acquisition enables Stepping Stones to deliver more consistent, evidence-based ABA therapy and behavioral health support to children and families across a wider geographic area. The integration of CBEST’s clinical expertise and client base is expected to enhance treatment outcomes and improve access to vital services.
Navigating Challenges Amid Industry Layoffs
While Stepping Stones pursues growth through this autism service provider acquisition, the sector faces headwinds. Many other providers are experiencing layoffs and closures. For instance, 360 Behavioral Health laid off over 500 employees in California, and The Center for Autism & Related Disorders (CARD) closed its Oregon centers, resulting in 156 layoffs. Digital ABA provider Elemy has also reduced staff amid market pressures.
Against this backdrop, Stepping Stones’ autism service provider acquisition of CBEST signals stability and investment in the future of autism care. The company’s expansion strategy aims to strengthen its position and provide a more sustainable foundation for behavioral health services.
Enhancing Clinical Leadership and Quality Care
A key benefit of this autism service provider acquisition is the addition of CBEST founder Shah Bahador to Stepping Stones’ leadership team as clinical director. His expertise will guide the clinical practice and help integrate CBEST’s proven methods with Stepping Stones’ existing programs. This leadership continuity is critical in maintaining quality and ensuring that families experience seamless care transitions.
Looking Ahead
The CBEST acquisition is a clear indication that Stepping Stones is committed to expanding access and improving the quality of autism services nationwide. By continuing its strategy of targeted autism service provider acquisitions, Stepping Stones Group is well-positioned to meet the increasing demand for behavioral health and autism care. This acquisition is a key step in building a stronger, more accessible network that serves children and families across the United States.
