Autism

Autism spectrum disorder is a neurological and developmental disorder that affects how people interact with others, communicate, learn, and behave.

Autism is a neurological developmental difference, clinically referred to as Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). For many people, autism impacts their life significantly, while other autistic people define autism as simply a different way of thinking. Some people with autism may have co-conditions, including different types of disabilities.

You should first voice your concerns with your child’s pediatrician. The doctor will determine if further testing or a neuropsychological evaluation is needed. At that time, our caring team will be here to help you schedule an evaluation.

The Modified Checklist for Autism in Toddlers (M-ChatTM) is a screening tool that can be used to help determine if a child’s behaviors could indicate that the child has autism. The screening is not a formal diagnosis or evaluation, however and if you have any questions regarding the outcome of the screener, please consult with your physician as a formal diagnostic evaluation may be needed.

Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy is a scientific and evidence-based approach for individuals with autism, fostering skill development and behavior management. Ideal for early intervention in children, it empowers them with lifelong skills. Through ABA, we teach communication, social interaction, and independence, laying the foundation for self-sufficiency and readiness for the world. The practice of ABA therapy starts with an evaluation utilizing a formalized assessment tool by a Board-Certified Behavior Analyst.

If you’re wondering whether ABA is the best next step for your child, we are to help guide you and answer any questions you may have. Our ABA program may be right for your child if:

• Your child was recently diagnosed with an Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and you would like to work on developing pre-academic and functional behavior skills
• Your teenager or young adult needs to learn transitional skills to help them become more successful adults
• Your child or teenager has challenging behavior that impacts his or her ability to learn in traditional settings
• Your child was involved in an ABA program, and you would like them to continue developing skills
• Your child needs to develop a way to communicate their wants and needs

Behavior Consults are offered as support for parents and caregivers after a child has graduated out of intensive ABA services due to meeting their treatment goals. Behavior Consults are targeted at addressing a specific skill or behavior. Our team works with families to provide continued parent training and education to guide their journey in the home, school, and other community settings.

Our Bridges to Success program is one of only a few of its kind in Michigan. The Bridges program is designed to specifically serve teens and young adults with ASD. Our program harnesses the scientifically proven approach of ABA therapy to help clients with autism develop important skills that will help them increase independence and prepare for adulthood. Parents, clients, and Autism Staff work together to determine goals and make progress together. Skills could include things like relationship building, independent living skills, or pre-vocational skills.

Based on evidence-based research, ABA schedules are typically recommended between 15-40 hours per week. To determine the appropriate amount of therapy hours, a Board-Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) will complete a skills assessment before starting therapy. The amount of time your child spends in ABA therapy will depend on their individual needs and your family's treatment goals.

Our comprehensive approach to ABA therapy means that your child has a team of trained and caring staff to help them grow and reach their treatment goals. Your child will have a Board-Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) and a team of 3-5 Behavior Technicians supporting their treatment. Your team’s main goal is to work with you to ensure your child receives the highest quality ABA therapy while at Judson Center.

Absolutely! Your involvement in your child’s treatment is very important. Before we begin ABA therapy, you will be interviewed during your child’s initial assessment. As we form your child’s treatment plan and goals, your input is invaluable. Together, we will compile the treatment plan and you will consent to their treatment beginning. Part of ABA therapy includes parent training and parent meetings where you will be regularly updated on your child’s progress.

Every child, teen, and young adult with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is distinct, and strategies that work for one may not be effective for another. At Judson Center‘s Autism Connection, our dedicated professionals provide personalized guidance to each individual. We work one-on-one to offering and addressing the following:

• Individualized treatment plan specifically designed to fit your family’s unique needs
• Communication Skills
• Social Skills
• Functional Play Skills
• Activities of Daily Living (ADLs)
• Coping & Tolerance
• Decreased challenging behavior
• Generalization of learned behaviors to the home, school, and community settings
• Collaboration with your child’s school through communication, observation, and attendance at IEP meetings

Collaboration with your child’s medical and behavioral health professionals, and other ancillary service providers like Speech & Occupational Therapy