Honoring a Future Mental Health Advocate from North Carolina

Lighthouse Autism Center is proud to announce Layah Clinton as the winner of the 2025 Autism Acceptance Scholarship. A dedicated psychology major at the University of North Carolina Chapel Hill, Layah embodies a passion for mental health advocacy and a strong commitment to creating lasting change for underserved communities, including individuals and families affected by autism in North Carolina.

A Calling Rooted in Compassion and Community

Layah’s journey into mental health began in her sophomore year of high school when she took her first psychology and sociology class. What she discovered was startling. Among children living below the federal poverty line, only 14 percent receive adequate mental health care. This stark reality struck a chord and has shaped her personal mission ever since.

Through volunteering at tutoring programs and food pantries in lower-income communities, Layah quickly recognized a troubling gap between academic knowledge and real-world access to care. She saw firsthand that textbook treatments for mental health often do not reach those who need them most, especially children living in poverty. Her experiences led to a deep understanding that intangible needs like emotional support and mental wellness are just as critical as food and clothing.

Inspired by Lived Experience

Layah’s commitment to mental health is personal. She shared the story of a young boy from her church whose father passed away from cancer. The family could only afford two therapy sessions. That limited support failed to address the grief and emotional pain the child was facing. This moment solidified Layah’s resolve to make mental health care more accessible and equitable, particularly for children from marginalized communities.

Her empathy grew into action. As a mentor, Layah has provided a safe space for peers and younger children to talk, reflect, and receive encouragement. Her goal is to help adolescents build coping skills to face life’s challenges in a healthy, sustainable way.

Research and Advocacy with Impact

In 2024, Layah served as a research scholar for the Baltimore City Government, Maryland Philanthropy Network, and the Middendorf Foundation. She helped uncover systemic inequities in grant distribution between larger nonprofits and smaller, minority-owned organizations. Her published findings and policy recommendations demonstrated her ability to turn research into advocacy. This is a skill she now aims to apply in the field of mental health.

Layah believes this experience, while outside the traditional healthcare setting, revealed important insights into accessibility and equity. These are issues that also affect families navigating autism services across North Carolina and beyond.

Looking Ahead: A Future Psychiatrist Serving Underserved Communities

As an active member of the UNC chapters of the National Alliance on Mental Illness and the Minority Association of Pre-Health Students, Layah is building the foundation to become a psychiatrist. Her vision is clear. She wants to provide accessible mental health care and support for underserved and underrepresented communities, with a particular interest in the social determinants of mental health and chronic illness.

At Lighthouse Autism Center, we are thrilled to support a student like Layah. She is not only passionate about psychology and autism support but also determined to address the structural barriers affecting mental healthcare. Her work resonates with our mission to bring hope and transformation to families and children with autism in North Carolina and throughout the region.

Celebrating Autism Acceptance and Educational Equity

The Autism Acceptance Scholarship exists to celebrate students who are dedicated to autism awareness, acceptance, and inclusion. Layah Clinton exemplifies what it means to be a compassionate leader and future change-maker. Her story serves as a reminder that creating a better future for individuals with autism starts with ensuring that every child, regardless of income or background, has access to the mental health services they deserve.

Congratulations to Layah. Your voice, vision, and values represent the future of mental health and autism care.

ABA Therapy Center is Now Open in Hobart, Indiana

Lighthouse Autism Center (LAC) is excited to announce the opening of a new center in Hobart, Indiana, on May 14, 2025. This marks another important milestone in our continued expansion, which now spans multiple states and supports hundreds of families across the country. What started as a modest effort to help a few families has grown into a network of centers providing specialized autism services to communities in need.

Our Hobart center offers a wide range of services tailored to the individual needs of children with autism and their families. These services include ABA therapy, the innovative Lighthouse Fusion® ABA therapy approach to speech support, autism diagnostic testing, pre-academic learning programs, and more. Each of these services is designed to promote growth, learning, and independence for children on the autism spectrum.

New Hobart Autism Center to Support Families

We are thrilled to open our newest play-based ABA therapy center in Hobart, Indiana. This center will provide families in the area with access to essential autism services, delivered in a welcoming and supportive environment. We look forward to becoming an integral part of the Hobart community, supporting families, and helping children with autism reach their full potential.

As we expand into Hobart, we’re proud to offer more than just top-notch therapy—we are also committed to contributing to the local economy by creating new job opportunities. This growth reflects our ongoing dedication to meeting the rising demand for autism services and making a positive impact in the communities we serve.

Lighthouse Autism Center: Leading the Way in Autism Therapy

Lighthouse Autism Center is a recognized leader in the field of autism therapy, known for its child-centered approach and dedication to providing high-quality, evidence-based treatment. Our state-of-the-art centers create a nurturing and dynamic learning environment, where children can thrive through play-based therapy.

One of the key features of our approach is Lighthouse Fusion® ABA therapy, a unique method that integrates speech support directly into a child’s daily ABA programming. This innovative model allows children to make faster progress in speech development, all while engaging in fun and meaningful activities. By blending speech therapy with ABA, Lighthouse Fusion provides more opportunities for speech practice and communication skills throughout the day, helping children unlock their potential more quickly.

We are excited to bring our proven model to Hobart, where we will offer a full spectrum of services, including ABA therapy, speech support, diagnostic testing, and parent support. Our expert team of clinicians is committed to providing compassionate care and ensuring that each child receives the support they need to grow, learn, and succeed.

To learn more about Lighthouse Autism Center in Hobart or to enroll your child, please contact our Family Outreach Coordinator or visit our website. We look forward to joining the Hobart community and making a lasting difference in the lives of children and families affected by autism.

Hobart Center Contact Information

295 S Wisconsin St, Suite A

Hobart, Indiana 46342

Hobart Autism Center

Family Outreach Phone: 574-387-4313

Don’t see an autism center listed near you? Contact us and let us know the area you are in, and we will notify you when we have a center opening near you!

Lighthouse Autism Center has opened a second center in Lincoln, Nebraska

Lighthouse Autism Center (LAC) is proud to announce that our second location in Lincoln, Nebraska, is officially open! Situated in the heart of the Lincoln Indian Village neighborhood, this new center reaffirms our commitment to providing high-quality autism therapy services to children and families in Lincoln and the surrounding communities.

This new center marks an important milestone in our journey to expand access to innovative, play-based ABA therapy. By bringing our services to more families, we aim to support children with autism in reaching their full potential.

The Lincoln Indian Village center offers a wide range of autism therapy services, tailored to meet the unique needs of every child we serve. Our services include:

• Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) Therapy: Our play-based ABA therapy focuses on building essential life skills in a fun and engaging way.
• Lighthouse Fusion®: A groundbreaking therapy model that integrates speech therapy directly into ABA programming for faster and more effective progress.
• Diagnostic Services: Accurate and timely diagnostic testing to provide clarity and direction for families.
• Pre-Academic and Social Programs: Specialized programs designed to prepare children for success in school and social environments.

Lincoln Indian Village Autism Center: An Individualized Approach to Autism Therapy

Our individualized approach ensures that each child receives personalized care, empowering them to achieve meaningful progress.

At Lighthouse Autism Center, we are dedicated to making a difference in the lives of children with autism and their families. Here’s why families trust us:

• Evidence-Based Practices: We utilize research-backed methods to ensure effective and reliable outcomes.
• Innovative Therapy Models: Our unique Lighthouse Fusion® therapy combines ABA and speech therapy for a seamless and impactful experience.
• Experienced Team: Our compassionate and highly trained staff work closely with families to provide the best possible care.
• Family-Focused Approach: We believe in collaborating with families every step of the way to support each child’s journey.

We are thrilled to welcome families to our new center and invite you to learn more about our services.

Lincoln Indian Village Center Contact Information

3811 S. 27th Street, Suite 3

Lincoln, Nebraska 68502

(402) 534-1486

Lincoln – Indian Village Autism Center

The opening of our Lincoln Indian Village center represents a significant step forward in our mission to provide exceptional autism therapy services. We are excited to expand our reach in the Lincoln community and look forward to continuing to support local families on their journey.

Don’t see an autism center listed near you? Contact us and let us know the area you are in, and we will notify you when we have a center opening near you!

From Awareness to Acceptance: A Meaningful Shift

Every April, the world recognizes Autism Awareness Month, but in recent years, the movement has evolved toward Autism Acceptance Month, a shift that embraces not just recognizing autism but fostering understanding, inclusion, and support. Lighthouse Autism Center is proud to stand at the forefront of this movement, advocating for meaningful change in how society perceives and supports autistic individuals.

The “Red Instead” Movement: A Step Toward Authentic Representation

For years, blue has been associated with autism awareness, largely due to campaigns by mainstream organizations. This color choice originated from the early misconception that autism primarily affected boys, leading to the adoption of blue as a symbolic color. Research has since shown that autism is diagnosed in boys approximately four times more often than in girls (CDC, 2023), though growing evidence suggests that autism in girls is often underdiagnosed or misdiagnosed.

However, many autistic self-advocates and allies have championed the “Red Instead” movement, emphasizing empowerment and neurodiversity rather than a medicalized view of autism. By choosing red, we honor autistic voices and celebrate their contributions to society rather than focusing solely on challenges.

Moving Away from the Puzzle Piece: A Symbol of Change

Another significant shift in autism advocacy is moving away from the puzzle piece symbol. Historically used to represent autism, the puzzle piece has been criticized for implying that autistic individuals are “missing pieces” or need to be “solved.” Instead, the infinity symbol, often in gold or a spectrum of colors, has gained traction, representing the diversity and richness of the autism community. At Lighthouse Autism Center, we support symbols that reflect acceptance, respect, and the beauty of neurodiversity.

The Importance of Early Intervention in Autism Support

While advocacy is crucial, so is access to high-quality support and intervention. Early intervention plays a pivotal role in helping autistic children build communication, social, and daily living skills. Research shows that children who receive early, evidence-based interventions, such as Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy, experience significant improvements in skill development and quality of life.

At Lighthouse Autism Center, our Naturalistic ABA approach fosters learning in a child-led, engaging environment that prioritizes joy and meaningful connections. Our dedicated teams of Board Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBAs) and Registered Behavior Technicians (RBTs) work closely with families to tailor individualized therapy plans.

How You Can Get Involved This Autism Acceptance Month

Autism Acceptance Month is about action. Whether you are a parent, caregiver, educator, or medical professional, there are many ways to support the autism community:

• Educate Yourself and Others: Read books, listen to autistic voices, and share accurate information about autism.
• Support Autistic-Owned Businesses and Creators: Purchase from businesses run by autistic individuals or follow and share their content online.
• Advocate for Inclusive Policies: Encourage schools, workplaces, and communities to adopt neurodiversity-friendly practices.
• Participate in Autism-Friendly Events: Join walks, fundraisers, or sensory-friendly community events that promote acceptance and support.
• Choose Acceptance-Based Language: Avoid deficit-based language and instead use strengths-based, person-first, or identity-first language as preferred by autistic individuals.

Why Autism Acceptance Matters to Lighthouse Autism Center

At Lighthouse Autism Center, acceptance is more than a word, it’s our mission. Every child we support, every therapy session we provide, and every family we walk alongside represents our unwavering commitment to celebrating the strengths of autistic individuals. We envision a world where autism is not just understood but embraced, where individuals are seen for who they are, not who society expects them to be.

As we celebrate Autism Acceptance Month, let’s move forward together with compassion, education, and advocacy. Whether through therapy, awareness, or everyday interactions, we all have a role to play in creating a more inclusive world for autistic individuals and their families.

Join us in making a difference this month and beyond.

References:

• National Institute of Mental Health. (n.d.). Autism Spectrum Disorder.
• Autistic Self Advocacy Network (ASAN). (n.d.). Red Instead Movement.
• Behavior Analysis in Practice. (2020). Importance of Early ABA Therapy in Autism Intervention.

Navigating autism can be challenging, but you don’t have to do it alone. Invaluable community resources are available in Elkhart, Indiana, from therapeutic services and local autism support groups to resources for parents. Find the support your family needs to thrive.

Community Resources for Autism in Elkhart, Indiana

Indiana Autism Resources: Community Support for Families in Elkhart

Raising an autistic child brings so many moments of incredible joy and discovery, from celebrating your child’s unique perspectives and achievements to witnessing the fantastic ways they can experience the world around them. While these moments can be a shining light, we also know that this journey comes with more than its fair share of challenges. So, a solid support system is crucial, not just in terms of family but community resources like recreational therapies, autism services and advocacy, support groups, and more. 

Finding the proper support at the right time can make all the difference, and in Elkhart, Indiana, you don’t have to navigate this path alone. Whether you’re looking for therapeutic services, seeking connections with other families who understand your experience, or exploring educational options, the community offers a vast network of support designed to help your child thrive. These resources won’t just be beneficial for your child either; many are there to support you, as the parent, as well. This guide will connect you with autism resources and local autism support groups in Elkhart that can become part of your family’s support system.

*Lighthouse Autism Center is not affiliated with nor officially endorses any of the organizations in this blog. 

ADEC Family Services

Contact Information: 574-848-7451 or www.adecinc.com

Caring and highly trained staff within ADEC’s Family Services are committed to working with your family to ensure the best possible development and autism community involvement for your child. For children, this is accomplished through offering summer camp, after-school care, transitions, parental assistance for waivers and services, a sibling support group, autism services, a game group for young adults, and music and recreational therapies. ADEC also provides services for adults with developmental disabilities, including supported employment, day services, residential services, and protective/legal services.

Anabaptist Disability Network

Contact Information: 574-343-1362 or www.adnetonline.org

Resources for churches and other groups who support the spiritual lives of families and persons who live with all types of disabilities, including mental illness.

Asperger/Autism Support Group of Goshen

Contact Information: 574-742-6394

Established in August 2006, this online group aims to support families by sharing practical information and tips, useful resources, and personal experiences. It offers a sense of community and understanding, providing a space for parents to connect, share insights, and find mutual support. This is currently an online support group with occasional informal meetings, and information is posted on its private Facebook group page.

Bashor Children’s Home

Contact Information:574-875-5117 or https://bashor.org/HOME.aspx

Bashor Children’s Home is a 501-C-3 non-profit child welfare agency that provides a range of services to troubled children and their families, including residential care, education, and other community-based services.

Healthy Beginnings

Contact Information: 574-522-0104 or https://healthybeginningselkhart.org/

Healthy Beginnings offers four programs aimed at prevention, education, and early intervention to enhance the health and lives of infants, young children, and pregnant and/or breastfeeding women.

Loveway Therapeutic Equestrian Services

Contact Information: 574-825-5666 or www.lovewayinc.org

LoveWay, Inc. provides therapeutic horseback riding for people of all ages with physical, cognitive, and emotional disabilities. Their program is designed to empower individuals through compassionate equine-assisted services that can help them grow socially, cognitively, emotionally, and physically. 

Oaklawn

Contact Information: 574-533-1234 or www.oaklawn.org

Oaklawn joins with individuals, families, and the community on the journey toward health and wholeness by offering a comprehensive range of mental health and addiction services for children, adolescents, adults, and seniors. While they may not specialize in autism services, their mental health support can be an essential resource for families dealing with autism-related challenges, such as managing anxiety, depression, or other mental health issues. 

The VOICE: Parent Support Group

Contact Information: 574-848-2446

This autism parent support group is the collaboration of ADEC, GPS, and the United Way.

It is a support group for parents of students in special education. In addition to its local autism support group, the VOICE actively engages with the Elkhart community through awareness events and outreach programs designed to enrich the lives of families with autistic children.

For more information regarding autism-related resources in Elkhart, Indiana, contact the Family Outreach Coordinator at Lighthouse Autism Center at 574-387-4313.

ABA Therapy Center is Now Open in South Sioux City, Nebraska

Lighthouse Autism Center (LAC) continues its remarkable expansion, now boasting a network of centers across six states. What began with a humble commitment to serve just four families in a single building has grown exponentially over the past decade, now providing invaluable support to hundreds of families across multiple states. It’s a testament to our dedication and the growing need for specialized autism services.

Our comprehensive offerings include ABA therapy, distinguished by our innovative Lighthouse Fusion® approach to speech therapy, autism diagnostic testing, and pre-academic learning. Each service is designed to meet the unique needs of individuals on the autism spectrum, ensuring holistic care and developmental support.

We are proud to announce the opening of our fourth play-based ABA therapy center in Nebraska, located in South Sioux City. This new center, now open as of February 24, 2025, serving children and their families, extending our reach and impact in the community. Moreover, the center has created several new job opportunities, reinforcing our commitment to local economic growth and community support.

At Lighthouse Autism Center, we remain dedicated to improving the lives of those we serve, and we are excited to continue expanding our mission to new communities across the Midwest and beyond.

Our mission is to provide the highest quality autism services to children and families by opening our newest autism center near you. Lighthouse Autism Center has committed to continuing our mission in South Sioux City, Nebraska as the need for ABA services continues to grow. Lighthouse is determined to fill that need by opening new children’s autism centers in underserved locations with facilities that can accommodate a larger capacity of learners, helping more families and children with autism, reach their goals.

South Sioux City Autism Center for speech and language

Lighthouse Autism Center is the Midwest’s leading autism therapy provider. With beautiful facilities that promote natural and play-based learning, and a team of highly trained and compassionate clinicians, Lighthouse Autism Center brings together compassionate care and clinical excellence to offer the highest quality ABA therapy to children with autism.

With a unique speech therapy model called Lighthouse Fusion®, children at Lighthouse are making greater progress, faster, all while having fun. While other ABA centers typically keep ABA and speech therapies separate, Lighthouse Fusion provides children with greater opportunity for speech development by fusing speech therapy directly into a child’s daily programing. We invite you to learn more here about how this innovative clinical model is helping to unlock each child’s potential. 

This vibrant community, known for its rich history and strong sense of community spirit, now benefits from specialized autism services offered by Lighthouse. The center’s opening signifies a significant milestone in providing essential care and support to families affected by autism in South Sioux City and its surrounding areas. With a commitment to excellence in ABA therapy, speech therapy, diagnostic testing, parent training, and more, Lighthouse Autism Center is dedicated to fostering growth and development in individuals on the autism spectrum. This new facility not only enhances accessibility to crucial services but also underscores Lighthouse’s ongoing dedication to improving the quality of life for families in South Sioux City.

To learn more about Lighthouse Autism Center or enroll your child, contact our Family Outreach Coordinator at (402) 534-1486 or visit our website.

South Sioux City Center Contact Information

3309 Daniels Lane

South Sioux City, Nebraska 68776

Don’t see an autism center listed near you? Contact us and let us know the area you are in, and we will notify you when we have a center opening near you!

South Sioux City Autism Center

Family Outreach Phone: (402) 534-1486

Lighthouse Autism Center is opening a second location in Lincoln, Nebraska

Lighthouse Autism Center (LAC) is thrilled to announce the opening of our second location in Lincoln, Nebraska, in the vibrant Lincoln Indian Village neighborhood. Scheduled to open in the spring of 2025, this new center reflects our commitment to expanding access to high-quality autism therapy services for families across Lincoln.

From our beginnings serving a small number of families to becoming a trusted name in autism care across multiple states, Lighthouse Autism Center has always prioritized growth with purpose. The addition of this second Lincoln location allows us to extend our reach and help even more children with autism thrive.

Our Lincoln Indian Village center will offer the same comprehensive and innovative services that families have come to expect from Lighthouse Autism Center. These include:

• Play-Based ABA Therapy: A child-centered approach that makes learning enjoyable and effective.
• Lighthouse Fusion®: An innovative therapy model that integrates speech therapy directly into ABA programming, providing more opportunities for meaningful progress.
• Diagnostic Testing: Comprehensive evaluations to ensure families receive accurate and timely diagnoses.
• Pre-Academic Programs: Tailored activities designed to prepare children for success in educational settings.

Lincoln Indian Village Autism Center: Leading the Way in Autism Therapy

Every aspect of our services is designed with individualized care in mind, ensuring that each child receives the tools and support they need to reach their full potential. By opening this new location, we aim to better serve the Lincoln community and provide more convenient access to life-changing autism therapy.

At Lighthouse Autism Center, we take pride in being a leader in autism care. Our team of compassionate professionals is dedicated to creating a nurturing environment where children can grow, learn, and thrive. Our unique Lighthouse Fusion® approach exemplifies our commitment to innovation by combining play-based ABA with speech therapy, enabling children to achieve greater progress in less time.

We are excited to bring these transformative services to the families of Lincoln Indian Village and surrounding communities. By collaborating closely with families and utilizing evidence-based practices, we strive to make a meaningful impact in the lives of children with autism.

Lincoln Indian Village Center Contact Information

3811 S. 27th Street, Suite 3

Lincoln, Nebraska 68502

(402) 534-1486

Lincoln – Indian Village Autism Center

Don’t see an autism center listed near you? Contact us and let us know the area you are in, and we will notify you when we have a center opening near you!

ABA Therapy Center is Now Open in La Porte, Indiana

Lighthouse Autism Center (LAC) is proud to continue its expansion, with a new center opening in La Porte, Indiana, on February 10, 2025. What started as a small initiative to support just a handful of families has now blossomed into a network of centers across multiple states, providing essential autism services to hundreds of families. This growth reflects our unwavering dedication to meeting the increasing demand for specialized autism care and making a lasting impact on the communities we serve.

Our La Porte center will offer a comprehensive range of services tailored to the unique needs of children with autism and their families. These services include ABA therapy, Lighthouse Fusion® speech therapy, autism diagnostic testing, pre-academic learning, and much more. Each service is designed to support the development and progress of children on the autism spectrum, ensuring they have the tools they need to thrive.

New La Porte Autism Center to Support Families

We are excited to announce the opening of our newest play-based ABA therapy center in La Porte, Indiana. This new center, opening on February 10, 2025, will provide a welcoming and supportive environment for children with autism. The center’s programs will be focused on individualized care to help each child reach their full potential. We are committed to offering high-quality therapy and support, and we are eager to serve the La Porte community.

Our expansion into La Porte reflects the growing need for specialized autism services in this area. We look forward to supporting local families while also contributing to the community by creating new job opportunities and fostering economic growth. With our team of highly trained and compassionate clinicians, we are confident that we can make a meaningful difference in the lives of children and families in La Porte and the surrounding areas.

Lighthouse Autism Center: Leading the Way in Autism Therapy

Lighthouse Autism Center has earned a reputation as a leading provider of autism therapy, known for our child-centered clinics that foster natural, play-based learning. Our team of experienced clinicians is dedicated to providing the highest quality care to children with autism, helping them achieve their goals and develop new skills.

One of the unique features of our approach is Lighthouse Fusion®, our innovative model that integrates speech therapy directly into ABA therapy. Unlike other centers where ABA and speech therapy are treated separately, Lighthouse Fusion® provides children with more opportunities for speech development, helping them make faster progress in a fun and engaging environment.

With a commitment to excellence in all our services, we are excited to bring our proven approach to La Porte. The center will offer comprehensive support to children and families, addressing their needs through a combination of therapies and individualized programs.

To learn more about Lighthouse Autism Center in La Porte or to enroll your child, please contact our Family Outreach Coordinator or visit our website. We look forward to becoming a trusted partner in your child’s developmental journey and supporting families in the La Porte area.

La Porte Center Contact Information

2910 Monroe St

La Porte, Indiana 46350

La Porte Autism Center

Family Outreach Phone: 574-387-4313

Don’t see an autism center listed near you? Contact us and let us know the area you are in, and we will notify you when we have a center opening near you!

On February 20, 2025 at 11:00am, Kearney Mayor Jonathan Nikkila will visit Lighthouse Autism Center to learn about its vital autism services and engage with families supported by the center. The visit underscores the mayor’s commitment to supporting initiatives that enhance the lives of residents in Kearney.

Commitment of Local Leaders

Mayor Jonathan Nikkila of Kearney is set to visit the Lighthouse Autism Center in Kearney on Thursday, February 20, 2025, to gain insights into the vital autism services provided by the center and to engage with the families they support within the community.

Lighthouse Autism Center, a leading provider of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy, has been a beacon of hope for families affected by autism spectrum disorder (ASD). The center is dedicated to offering comprehensive, individualized therapy designed to support and enhance the lives of children and their families.

During his visit, Mayor Nikkila will have the opportunity to meet with staff members and learners, learn about the various services offered, and witness firsthand the positive impact these services have on the community. The mayor’s visit underscores his commitment to understanding and supporting local initiatives that improve the quality of life for Kearney residents.

About Autism Spectrum Disorder

Autism spectrum disorder is a complex developmental condition that affects approximately 1 in 36 children in the United States, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Early intervention is crucial in managing autism, with research showing that early and consistent therapy can significantly improve communication skills, social abilities, and overall quality of life.

Importance of Community Support

The visit highlights the importance of community support and collaboration in addressing the needs of individuals with autism and their families. Lighthouse Autism Center remains committed to raising awareness about autism and advocating for resources that benefit all families in the Kearney area.

About Lighthouse Autism Center

Lighthouse Autism Center is a leading provider of ABA therapy dedicated to improving the lives of children with autism spectrum disorder and their families. With a focus on individualized care and early intervention, the center offers a range of services designed to foster growth, development, and success for every child.

ABA Therapy Center is Now Open in Cedar Rapids, Iowa

Lighthouse Autism Center (LAC) continues its remarkable expansion, now boasting a network of centers across five states. What began with a humble commitment to serve just four families in a single building has grown exponentially over the past decade, now providing invaluable support to hundreds of families across multiple states. It’s a testament to our dedication and the growing need for specialized autism services.

Our comprehensive offerings include ABA therapy, distinguished by our innovative Lighthouse Fusion® approach to speech therapy, autism diagnostic testing, and pre-academic learning. Each service is designed to meet the unique needs of individuals on the autism spectrum, ensuring holistic care and developmental support.

We are proud to announce the opening of our sixth play-based ABA therapy center in Iowa, located in Cedar Rapids. This new center, now open as of Monday, December 16, 2024, serves 25 children and their families, extending our reach and impact in the community. Moreover, the center has created over 35 new job opportunities, reinforcing our commitment to local economic growth and community support.

At Lighthouse Autism Center, we remain dedicated to improving the lives of those we serve, and we are excited to continue expanding our mission to new communities across the Midwest and beyond.

Our mission is to provide the highest quality autism services to children and families by opening our newest autism center near you. Lighthouse Autism Center has committed to continuing our mission in Cedar Rapids, Iowa as the need for ABA services continues to grow. Lighthouse is determined to fill that need by opening new children’s autism centers in underserved locations with facilities that can accommodate a larger capacity of learners, helping more families and children with autism, reach their goals.

Cedar Rapids Autism Center for speech and language

Lighthouse Autism Center is the Midwest’s leading autism therapy provider. With beautiful facilities that promote natural and play-based learning, and a team of highly trained and compassionate clinicians, Lighthouse Autism Center brings together compassionate care and clinical excellence to offer the highest quality ABA therapy to children with autism.

With a unique speech therapy model called Lighthouse Fusion®, children at Lighthouse are making greater progress, faster, all while having fun. While other ABA centers typically keep ABA and speech therapies separate, Lighthouse Fusion provides children with greater opportunity for speech development by fusing speech therapy directly into a child’s daily programing. We invite you to learn more here about how this innovative clinical model is helping to unlock each child’s potential. 

This vibrant community, known for its rich history and strong sense of community spirit, now benefits from specialized autism services offered by Lighthouse. The center’s opening signifies a significant milestone in providing essential care and support to families affected by autism in Cedar Rapids and its surrounding areas. With a commitment to excellence in ABA therapy, speech therapy, diagnostic testing, parent training, and more, Lighthouse Autism Center is dedicated to fostering growth and development in individuals on the autism spectrum. This new facility not only enhances accessibility to crucial services but also underscores Lighthouse’s ongoing dedication to improving the quality of life for families in Cedar Rapids.

To learn more about Lighthouse Autism Center or enroll your child, contact our Family Outreach Coordinator at 563-526-0533 or visit our website.

Cedar Rapids Center Contact Information

2811 Wiley Boulevard SW, Suite 800

Cedar Rapids, Iowa 52404

Cedar Rapids Autism Center

Family Outreach Phone: 563-526-0533

Don’t see an autism center listed near you? Contact us and let us know the area you are in, and we will notify you when we have a center opening near you!

Lighthouse Autism Center (LAC) is excited to announce its continued growth with the opening of two new centers in Indiana—one in Hobart and one in La Porte—scheduled for the spring of 2024. From our beginnings serving a small number of families to now reaching communities across multiple states, we have experienced significant growth and are proud to expand our reach further to support even more families.

Lighthouse Autism Center is now serving Hobart and La Porte, Indiana

Our commitment to providing high-quality, play-based ABA therapy is stronger than ever. These new centers will offer a comprehensive range of autism services, including ABA therapy, innovative speech therapy through Lighthouse Fusion®, diagnostic testing, pre-academic programs, and more. With a focus on individualized care, we are dedicated to improving the lives of children with autism and their families.

Lighthouse Autism Center: Leading the Way in Autism Therapy

Lighthouse Autism Center is a recognized leader in the field of autism therapy, known for its innovative and child-centered approach to treatment. Our play-based ABA therapy, combined with a collaborative and family-focused model, has helped countless children thrive.

One of the key components of our success is Lighthouse Fusion®, our unique approach to speech therapy. Unlike traditional therapy models that separate speech and ABA, Lighthouse Fusion integrates speech therapy directly into each child’s ABA programming, offering more opportunities for speech development in everyday contexts. This integration ensures children make greater progress, faster—all while enjoying the process.

At Lighthouse Autism Center, we are passionate about providing children with the tools they need to succeed and live fulfilling lives. We look forward to continuing to serve families in Hobart, La Porte, and beyond, as we work to create a positive impact in the lives of those with autism.

For more information or to learn how to enroll your child at one of our new Indiana locations, please contact our Family Outreach Coordinator or visit our website. We can’t wait to meet the families of Hobart and La Porte and begin this exciting journey together!

Hobart Center Contact Information

295 S Wisconsin St, Suite A

Hobart, Indiana 46342

Hobart Autism Center

Family Outreach Phone: 574-387-4313

La Porte Center Contact Information

2910 Monroe St

La Porte, Indiana 46350

La Porte Autism Center

Family Outreach Phone: 574-387-4313

Don’t see an autism center listed near you? Contact us and let us know the area you are in, and we will notify you when we have a center opening near you!