Essential Speech and ABA Therapy
Essential Speech and ABA Therapy franchises offer centers for Applied Behavioral Analysis (ABA), speech, and occupational therapies to children with developmental disabilities. Known for specialized therapeutic services, this franchise operates in the field of early intervention and behavioral therapy.
Essential Speech and ABA Therapy franchise FAQ
How much does it cost to open one — the total initial investment?
The total initial investment for opening a center isn't specified directly in these excerpts. However, several costs are mentioned that contribute to the overall expense. These include approximately $10,000 to $37,500 for the computer system and required software [p.29], around 70% to 80% of total establishment costs for Required Purchases [p.20], and an initial marketing expenditure of $5,500 [p.28]. The timeframe for opening ranges from 6 to 12 months [p.26], during which various other expenses may accrue. This isn't specified in the excerpts.
What is the initial franchise fee?
The initial franchise fee is $49,500 and it must be paid as a non-refundable lump sum at the time you enter into your Franchise Agreement with Speech and ABA Therapy Franchising, LLC [p.11].
What are the ongoing royalty and advertising fees?
The franchisee is required to pay a Royalty Fee, which revenue presentation is due by the tenth day of the month following the month in which the Gross Revenue was recognized. The payment is split between the tenth and twenty-fourth days of that month [p.83]. Additionally, the franchisee must participate in advertising and promotional programs established by Essential Speech, with materials potentially developed either in-house or through designated local, regional, or national agencies [p.28].
How long is the initial franchise agreement, and can I renew it?
The initial franchise agreement does not specify a fixed length; instead, renewal terms may vary. If you wish to renew your agreement, it will automatically renew under Essential Speech's then-current terms and conditions, which may be materially different from the current Agreement [p.82, p.134].
Can I sell or transfer my franchise, and what does that require?
According to the FDD, you can only sell or transfer your franchise if it complies with applicable laws governing the offer and sale of franchises [p.109]. Additionally, any such transfer must be made in compliance with state and federal laws [p.109]. This isn't specified in the excerpts regarding specific consent requirements from the franchisor for selling or transferring a franchise.
On what grounds can the franchisor terminate the agreement?
According to [p.111], the franchisor can terminate the agreement if the franchisee fails to cure certain defaults within the prescribed time period, as these defaults are considered 'good cause' and 'reasonable cause' for termination under applicable state franchise laws or regulations.
What financial requirements — net worth and liquid capital — do I need to qualify?
This isn't specified in the excerpts. The FDD does mention that a transferee must have adequate financial resources and capital to meet performance obligations under the agreement [p.108], but it doesn't provide specific details on net worth or liquid capital requirements.
Do I get an exclusive or protected territory?
No, you do not receive an exclusive territory [p.30]. You may face competition from other franchisees, outlets owned by the company, or other competitive brands controlled by them. Your territorial rights are limited, and the franchisor retains the right to engage in similar activities outside your designated territory [p.128].
What training and ongoing support does the franchisor provide?
The franchisor provides a structured Initial Training Program that includes virtual instruction, guided implementation activities, and on-site support over approximately 20 to 24 weeks. This training covers various topics essential for operating a center according to system standards. Additionally, ongoing support may be provided as needed based on availability, though specific details of this are not detailed in the excerpts. [p.23, p.25]
How many franchised outlets are there, and how many have closed or been terminated?
Based on [p.36], the franchise offers information about twelve franchised locations that operated during the 2025 Measuring Period. However, this excerpt does not provide any details about which, if any, of these outlets have closed or been terminated. This isn't specified in the excerpts.
Does the franchisor share any financial performance or earnings information?
Yes, the franchisor shares financial performance information based on historical data from certain outlets. According to [p.36], the information is derived from 'Disclosed Outlets' that billed for at least one month during the 2025 Measuring Period (January 1, 2025 to December 31, 2025), and it includes both affiliate-owned and franchised locations [p.36]. However, other than this historical information, no financial performance representations are made, and employees or representatives are not authorized to make such representations [p.38].
What am I restricted to selling, and where must I buy supplies?
You are restricted to selling only the products and services that Essential Speech approves for sale at the Center [p.92]. You may not offer or provide any other products or services without prior written consent from Essential Speech. Additionally, you may have to buy or lease items from the franchisor or a limited group of suppliers designated by them, which might be more expensive than similar items purchased elsewhere [p.4].