Essential Speech and ABA Therapy Franchise FDD, Profits & Costs (2025)
Essential Speech and ABA Therapy was established in 2017 in Missouri City, Texas, by a team of three seasoned speech-language pathologists. Recognizing a gap in coordinated care for children on the autism spectrum, they set out to create a more unified and efficient therapy approach.
Their concept combines Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), speech therapy, and occupational therapy within a single facility. This all-in-one model emphasizes early intervention for young children, typically between 18 months and 6 years of age.
The company began offering franchise opportunities in 2023 and has expanded quickly, now operating 15 locations nationwide. It appeals to purpose-driven entrepreneurs who are passionate about making a positive impact in their communities.
What differentiates Essential Speech and ABA Therapy is its team-based treatment method. Every center is staffed with ABA specialists, speech-language pathologists, and occupational therapists who work collaboratively to support each child’s development.
Initial Investment
How much does it cost to start a Essential Speech and ABA Therapy franchise? It costs on average between $209,000 – $669,000 to start a Essential Speech and ABA Therapy franchised center.
This includes costs for facility build-out, therapy equipment, furniture, and initial operating expenses. The total investment varies based on factors such as the clinic’s size, geographic location, and whether the franchisee leases or purchases the property.
| Type of Expenditure | Amount |
|---|---|
| Initial Franchise Fee | $49,500 |
| Onboarding Services Fee | $2,500 |
| Training Expenses | $3,000 – $6,000 |
| Leasehold Improvements | $0 – $100,000 |
| Professional Photography Fee | $500 – $1,000 |
| EMR Services | $850 – $3,320 |
| Furniture and Fixtures | $20,000 – $40,000 |
| Signage | $2,000 – $15,000 |
| Technology | $15,000 – $30,000 |
| Rent (3 months) | $15,000 – $45,000 |
| Security Deposit | $10,000 – $25,000 |
| Utilities | $5,000 – $10,000 |
| Office Supplies | $1,000 – $3,000 |
| Grand Opening Advertising Expenditure | $5,500 |
| Local Advertising Requirement | $300 |
| Software | $4,500 – $9,000 |
| Insurance | $3,000 – $5,000 |
| Permits and Licenses | $2,500 – $5,000 |
| Professional Fees | $1,500 – $4,000 |
| Staffing and Payroll Costs | $40,000 – $150,000 |
| Therapy Materials | $5,000 – $15,000 |
| Credentialing Services | $7,800 – $20,000 |
| Additional Funds (3 months) | $15,000 – $125,000 |
| Total | $209,450 – $669,120 |
Average Revenue (AUV)
How much revenue can you make with a Essential Speech and ABA Therapy franchise? A Essential Speech and ABA Therapy franchised location makes on average $5,289,000 in revenue (AUV) per year.
Here is the extract from the Franchise Disclosure Document:
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many Essential Speech and ABA Therapy locations are there?
As of the latest data, Essential Speech and ABA Therapy operates approximately 8 locations across the United States, with 4 being franchise-owned and 4 company-owned.
What is the total investment required to open a Essential Speech and ABA Therapy franchise?
The total investment required to open a Essential Speech and ABA Therapy franchise ranges from $209,000 to $669,000.
What are the ongoing fees for a Essential Speech and ABA Therapy franchise?
Essential Speech and ABA Therapy franchisees pay a 5% royalty of gross revenue to the franchisor—this ongoing fee grants continued access to operational support, training, and the brand system.
Notably, there is no additional marketing or advertising fee specified, meaning franchisees are not required to contribute separately to a marketing fund.
Who owns Essential Speech and ABA Therapy?
Essential Speech and ABA Therapy is privately owned by its three founding speech-language pathologists: Amber Lister, Nafisa Obi, and Camila Trevino.
Disclaimer
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