Sometimes it seems hopeless, being the parent of an autistic child. Parents often get frustrated trying new remedies and therapies. Often, the child does not improve and parents give up. However, today there is promising therapy available from the Fox Valley Autism Treatment Program. The program has helped over 700 autistic children in 13 years of operation. The program also treats children with Asperger’s syndrome or other related developmental disorders.
Autism Services in Green Bay, WI, uses Applied Behavior Analysis or (ABA.) This treatment teaches a child new skills, and attempts to lessen problem behavior. The treatment focuses on particular concerns, including:
* communication
* self care and independent daily living skills
* social skills
* behavior problems and “meltdowns”
* attention
* sensory problems
The program develops an individualized plan for each patient using parental input, plus any test results available. Each child is required to have at least 20 hours of therapy per week, with line therapists. Line therapists are usually college students, majoring in education, psychology or social work. Senior therapists are responsible for hiring, training and overseeing all staff, including line therapists. Senior therapists have college degrees, and over 2,000 hours of line therapy experience. The program works with families to develop a flexible and rewarding therapy schedule. The aim is to accommodate the family’s needs.
Examples of issues the therapist and patient work on are: toilet training, communication, social skills and safety skills within the home and community. Senior therapists observe the child’s needs, and put together a series of goals. Parents may not always agree with the therapist’s approach; however, the program values parental input and tries to resolve any issues to the child’s benefit.
Many health care plans cover Autism Services in Green Bay, WI, and the program accepts self-pay. There is also a Medicaid waiver available, which uses a combination of federal and state funding. Case management is handled by the county in which you live. The Medicaid waiver has a waiting list, so interested parties should apply, immediately. Finally, family income does not determine who is eligible for autism treatment funding. Parents need to learn about the program today, as it benefits the entire family.
