Autism Treatment Centers in Omaha, NE
After almost 17 years of healing in the Northwoods of Wisconsin, we have made the decision to close New Vision (NVW). The last couple of years have been very trying on us and the field at large. As the behavioral health market grows and evolves, new more accessible programs have become families’ choice for treatment. It has become increasingly difficult to operate going forward. As responsible stewards of mental health treatment, challenging decisions needed to be made. This is an emotional announcement for us to share after serving thousands of families. Our hearts are full of memories shared with our students, families, employees, and leaders with the connections developed here in Wisconsin. From the magic of winter to the growth of spring into summer, and the reflection of the brilliant fall colors, we facilitated the joy of healing with our families. The Northwoods has always been a magical place for transformation.
After almost 17 years of healing in the Northwoods of Wisconsin, we have made the decision to close New Vision (NVW). The last couple of years have been very trying on us and the field at large. As the behavioral health market grows and evolves, new more accessible programs have become families’ choice for treatment. It has become increasingly difficult to operate going forward. As responsible stewards of mental health treatment, challenging decisions needed to be made. This is an emotional announcement for us to share after serving thousands of families. Our hearts are full of memories shared with our students, families, employees, and leaders with the connections developed here in Wisconsin. From the magic of winter to the growth of spring into summer, and the reflection of the brilliant fall colors, we facilitated the joy of healing with our families. The Northwoods has always been a magical place for transformation.
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Autism Treatment Centers
What is the most effective treatment for autism?
Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) has come to be considered the standard treatment for children with autism spectrum disorder, and research has confirmed its effectiveness for many children. Therapists trained in ABA techniques work with children (and their parents) on developing social skills, communication and learning abilities, and everyday habits of hygiene and grooming. The clinician will tailor their program to the child’s particular need but the overarching goal will be to help them advance as far as possible toward independence based on their level of symptoms and decrease the need for additional special services. Families should seek a mental health professional specifically trained in ABA, and holding special certification in the technique, who has extensive experience not only with the approach but in using it with children with the same level of symptoms as the child who needs care.
How does ABA work?
Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) sessions, which typically focus on positive reinforcement, can be intensive, lasting two or more hours several times a week, and continuing for two years or more. Therapists can also be expected to ask parents to take an active role in reinforcing lessons. Research has found that the technique can lead to major improvements that decrease the need for additional special services.
How does treatment for autism work?
Therapy sessions based on Applied Behavior Analysis will likely be frequent, intensive, and highly structured. After a thorough assessment, a therapist will help a child understand and develop skills in a range of areas, including communication, motor skills, social skills, self-care, play, and academic skills, as well as routines of daily living like hygiene. Typically, the therapist will help a child break down the components of a behavior—often referred to as the antecedent (what prompts an action), the behavior, and the consequence(what immediately follows)—and then reward the child at every step, while also asking parents to reinforce the lessons, and the rewards, throughout the day. This core therapy may be supplemented by occupational or speech therapy, and antidepressants, antipsychotics, and anticonvulsants may be prescribed to address specific severe symptoms.
How long does therapy for autism take?
Some people with autism spectrum disorder may be engaged in some level of therapy for many years, but research shows that treatment will be most effective if it is begun early and delivered intensively. When therapy begins by age 3, children tend to be better able to grasp and adopt the skills needed to manage everyday life, including attending school and establishing social relationships. This type of early-intervention treatment regimen is highly structured, typically involving 20 to 40 hours of one-on-one therapy per week, along with additional hours of engagement managed by parents, for a period of two years or more, although the duration of treatment is dependent on the child’s level of symptoms and pace of progress.