Autism Spectrum Disorder
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder related to the brain. ASD begins in early childhood and impacts how children perceive and socialize with others. ASD eventually causes problems in social interactions, communication and often includes limited and repetitive patterns of behavior. The term "spectrum" refers to the wide range of symptoms and severity of the disorder.
While there is no cure for ASD, early diagnosis and treatment can be very helpful in helping children gain new skills.
Why Choose MyMichigan Health
MyMichigan Health’s Pediatric Applied Behavior Analysis offers pediatric services designed to help children of all ages reach their highest level of developmental function. Our therapists work in collaboration with parents and other caregivers to help children develop and enhance their physical, communication, behavioral and functional skills.
Programs are individualized to meet each child’s specific needs. Children are assessed, and programs are developed to increase children’s skills in the areas of language and communication, social and play skills, as well as adaptive skills and others. Decreasing unwanted behavior is also addressed using functional behavior assessments and targeted interventions. The overall goal is to help each child meet his/her potential and to increase their likelihood of success in all areas of life.
What is ABA Therapy?
Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) is an evidenced-based autism intervention that follows a scientific approach to increase positive behaviors and replace challenging behaviors with functional skills. A Board-Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) evaluates the needs of each child and tailors a program that will be implemented by behavior technicians through 1:1 therapy.
Therapy time is meant to be a pleasant experience for children, with playful interaction as the major means of teaching. Parents play an important role in the therapy process by participating in parent training sessions provided by the BCBA. In these sessions, parents will learn how to help their child generalize the skills learned in the clinic, so the new behaviors will be maintained at home.
What is the referral process?
Children with Medicaid insurance will need to contact a local Community Mental Health Services Provider to receive an evaluation. Services will be provided by Community Mental Health staff or authorized by Community Mental Health with a provider who is in their provider network. MyMichigan is not in the provider network and are unable to serve children with Medicaid as their primary insurance.
Children with private insurances should receive an evaluation in an Approved Autism Evaluation Center (AAEC). MyMichigan Health’s AAEC is located at 304 W. Wackerly St. in Midland. Patients may phone (989) 492-7766 for additional information or to schedule an evaluation appointment. If the AAEC evaluation results in a diagnosis of autism and Applied Behavior Analysis is recommended, then a referral to MyMichigan Pediatric Applied Behavior Analysis can be made. MyMichigan Pediatric Applied Behavior Analysis is located at 32 S. Homer Road, Midland. For questions or to schedule an appointment phone (989) 486-8351.
