
Resources
What is Autism?
Autism, or Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), is a neurodevelopmental condition that affects how a person interacts with others, communicates, learns, and behaves. It is called a "spectrum" disorder because it varies widely in severity and symptoms from person to person.
Educational Content
Explore the network of local ASD Caregiver Support Groups organized by the Autism Society of North Carolina, which are available in New Hanover, Pender, and Onslow counties.
Check out Autism Spectrum News. A comprehensive collection of more than 1,500 articles providing essential autism education, information, support, advocacy, and valuable resources.
FAQ
-
ABA therapy (Applied Behavior Analysis) is a scientifically supported therapeutic approach that focuses on teaching and reinforcing positive behaviors while reducing undesirable ones. It uses a variety of techniques such as positive reinforcement to encourage appropriate social, communication, and adaptive skills. ABA helps individuals with ASD by improving their ability to communicate, interact with others, and function in daily life.
-
The timeline for seeing results from ABA therapy varies depending on the individual, the severity of their symptoms, the goals set, and the intensity of the therapy. Some individuals may start showing improvements within a few weeks, while others may take several months or even years of consistent therapy to see significant progress. Typically, more intensive therapy (e.g., 20-40 hours per week) may lead to faster outcomes.
-
Yes, ABA therapy can be beneficial for individuals of all ages and levels of severity of ASD. It is tailored to each individual's specific needs and abilities, with interventions that are adjusted as the person progresses. While ABA therapy is often used for children with autism, adults can also benefit from ABA techniques, particularly in improving communication, social skills, and independent living skills.
-
ABA therapy is generally considered safe and effective, but some individuals may experience frustration or stress during sessions, especially when learning new behaviors or facing challenges. It is crucial for the therapy to be conducted by a trained and compassionate therapist who uses positive reinforcement methods. If not implemented correctly, some approaches could lead to undesirable consequences, such as emotional distress. However, these risks are minimized when the therapy is individualized and conducted in a supportive environment.
-
To find a qualified ABA therapist, start by seeking recommendations from healthcare providers, pediatricians, or autism support organizations. Look for a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA), as they are certified professionals with expertise in ABA therapy. Many insurance companies also cover ABA therapy, so you can check with your insurance provider for in-network options. Additionally, local autism organizations or support groups can provide helpful resources for finding skilled therapists.
-
Caregivers play a vital role in their child's ABA therapy by actively participating in parent training, collaborating with therapists, and reinforcing learned skills at home. Our program provides structured guidance to help parents apply ABA strategies in everyday situations, manage challenging behaviors, and promote their child’s independence. Regular communication with therapists ensures that goals are aligned and progress is continuously monitored. Additionally, we offer ongoing education and support to empower caregivers throughout their child’s therapy journey, creating a consistent and effective learning environment.