Silver Lining ABA
A service provider of Hi-5 ABA.
ABOUT US
Silver Lining ABA is a nationally accredited, state certified, private behavioral health agency. Silver Lining ABA employs
research-based strategies aimed at maximizing the functioning and independence of autistic individuals and individuals with developmental disabilities and mental health disorders.
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Silver Lining ABA believes in a comprehensive support system as well as readily accessible services for all clients. Our unique approach allows individuals to receive customized, integrated treatment from an incredible team of clinicians. Each client's individualized treatment goals are established in collaboration with the parents/guardian and IEP or ISP team. Staff members help empower each person served and their families to actively participate with the team to promote recovery, progress, or well-being. In addition to center-based treatment, Silver Lining ABA proudly offers several other services including Assessment and Diagnosis, Community Education, Outpatient Services, and Outreach Programs designed to support the ongoing needs of our community.
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Silver Lining ABA is proud to be a service provider of Hi-5 ABA.
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Vision Statement:
To set the standard of excellence and be the provider, employer, and community partner of choice in the field of Applied Behavior Analysis.
Mission Statement:
To embrace individuality and empower clients to maximize their independence through inclusive, compassionate treatment based in the science of behavior.
History:
Silver Lining ABA was founded in Mansfield, Ohio in 2007. Silver Lining ABA is an organization with the desire to bring quality services for autistic individuals, individuals with developmental disabilities, and individuals with mental health disorders to needed areas and specializes in research-based treatments for autistic children.
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Silver Lining ABA currently has sites in Mansfield (2007), Cleveland (2009), Columbus (2012), St. Clairsville (2012), and Cambridge (2025) and provides outreach services in more than 20 counties throughout Ohio. We are excited about the opportunity to grow and serve the special needs community in these areas and look forward to future developments that meet the needs of our clients at both the state and national levels.
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In 2023, Silver Lining ABA joined the Hi-5 ABA franchise network. Hi-5 ABA works diligently to continue a disciplined effort toward maintaining an excellent reputation in the industry. Hi-5 ABA prioritizes: professional ethical standards, strict integrity with respect to records, disclosures, and claims, and genuine care toward client families, company personnel, and other industry participants.
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Accreditation, Certification, and Licensing:
Silver Lining ABA is a Commission on the Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities (CARF) accredited behavioral health center. Silver Lining ABA is a state certified Community Mental Health Agency. In addition, Silver Lining ABA is an approved provider for the Ohio Autism Scholarship Program.
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Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities (CARF)
Ohio Department of Behavioral Health
University Affiliations:
Silver Lining ABA welcomes students from universities who are completing their practicum and internship placements. Silver Lining ABA has worked with the following colleges and universities on student placements:
Social Work:
The Ohio State University
University of Louisville
Mount Vernon Nazarene University
Psychology:
Purdue Global University Applied Behavior Analysis
Special Education/Applied Behavioral Analysis:
Kaplan University Master of Psychology ABA Specialization
University of Dayton Intervention Specialist
Marriage and Family Counseling:
Walden University
Founders
Kristen Wilcock, CEO, BCBA
Michele Murphy, COO
Kristen Wilcock, MS/BCBA/COBA acts as CEO and Full Partner of the Silver Lining ABA. Wilcock is a Board Certified Behavior Analyst, a Professional Crisis Management Instructor, and an administrative and program surveyor for the Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities (CARF). She received her undergraduate degree in Psychology from The Ohio State University and her master’s degree in Psychology with a specialization in Applied Behavior Analysis from Capella University. She trained at the Wisconsin Early Autism Project, a Lovaas replication site, where she worked as a behavioral consultant and consultant trainer. In addition, Wilcock was the Co-Founder and Director of Step By Step Academy from 2001 through 2007. Step By Step Academy was the first private center-based program for autistic children in Ohio. She co-founded Silver Lining ABA in 2007 and has developed the training program, treatment program, and all the policies and procedures for the organization. Wilcock has been working with autistic individuals, individuals with developmental disabilities, and individuals with mental health disorders since 1995. She is also the proud parent of an amazing young autistic man. Her career and son have led her to the role of advocating for individuals with disabilities at both the local and state levels.
Michele Murphy acts as the COO and Full Partner of Silver Lining ABA. She earned her degree in Health Care Services from Capital University in Columbus, Ohio, and co-founded Silver Lining ABA in 2007. Before launching Silver Lining ABA, she served as the Clinic Director for Step By Step Academy, a well-respected autism treatment center in Columbus, Ohio. In addition to her professional experience, Michele is also an adoptive and foster parent. Through this personal journey, she has witnessed firsthand how powerful ABA therapy can be for children in foster and adoptive care—offering structure, support, and skill-building that meet their unique needs. She is passionate about advocating for these children and sees ABA as not only beneficial for their development but also as a meaningful support system for the families who love and care for them. Michele’s combined professional expertise and personal commitment make her a strong, compassionate leader dedicated to helping children thrive and ensuring families feel supported every step of the way.