Congratulations to our 2024 Autism Awareness Scholarship Recipient
In 2020, Lighthouse Autism Center established the Lighthouse Autism Center Autism Awareness scholarship. This scholarship is intended to provide financial assistance to an individual enrolled at a college or university as an undergraduate student in their junior or senior year, preferably in an area that we currently serve. While we had many impressive applications, Nicole Peixoto was selected as the awardee for this scholarship. Nicole is majoring in Psychology and working towards obtaining a Board Certified Assistant Behavior Analyst (BCaBA) certification at the University of South Florida. Nicole then plans to pursue a master’s degree in Behavior Analysis from Florida Institute of Technology.
About Nicole Peixoto
I grew up in Brazil, and have taught myself English in my spare time, so I decided I wanted to teach English to other Brazilians willing to learn. This idea terrified me because it would require me to speak publicly, but I knew to overcome my fears, I had to challenge myself. I found a start-up online in need of English teachers to volunteer in their summer program, so I applied and successfully passed the interview. Here I was able to tutor English twice a week to teenagers from all over Brazil. This experience was life-changing for me because with the teaching and public speaking experience, I was able to land a job only four months later at a language center as an ESL (English as a Second Language) Teacher. As I gained responsibility and realized how many people I was helping, I felt more accomplished, and my confidence grew.
Overcoming these challenges has made me strive for more so I then decided to leave my country alone in search of a better academic future, where I can study what I am most fascinated about: psychology. With the money I made as an ESL teacher and later working with children in a bilingual school in my city, I was able to pay for my student visa and airplane ticket, and with the support of my parents, I embarked on my education journey in the United States.
In my community college years, I volunteered at my local elementary school, helping in first-grade classrooms where I worked as a teacher assistant helping first-graders to read and write. Moreover, followed by my love for personal development, I became the Vice President of Scholarship in the Chi Epsilon chapter of PTK (Phi Theta Kappa). In our general meetings, I would talk about the professional development courses we had for PTK members and show them scholarship opportunities they could apply for. I would also help students to succeed in their academic careers by offering to help with their resumes. In addition, I became a grief facilitator and volunteered at an organization called New Hope for Kids, helping grieving children cope with the loss of one of their loved ones.
In September of 2023, I started volunteering at OCA, where I would help children with developmental disabilities gain independence. After four months of helping in their early intervention program, I was offered a job as a direct care staff, which is my current role. My job inspired me to become a BCBA, and I am currently working toward getting an RBT certification.
Working with adults and children with Autism Spectrum Disorder evoked a passion for the field of Applied Behavior Analysis. In the Fall of 2024, I will be transferring to the University of South Florida to pursue a Bachelor in Arts in Psychology and I will work toward getting a Board Certified Assistant Behavior Analyst (BCaBA) certification. Following this, I plan on pursuing a master’s degree in Behavior Analysis from Florida Institute of Technology. After considerable personal growth, I have realized that my main purpose in life is to transform others’ lives.
I hope that one day in the future I will grow to become a Behavior Analyst and work directly with individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder by implementing behavioral programs that can have a positive impact in their future. I have come to realize this is the perfect career for me because it combines my love for teaching and education with my passion for human behavior, and I could not be more grateful for my current job and past experiences.
Leading ABA Provider Sponsors Sensory Room at Beacon Medical Group, Pediatrics Bristol Street to help support children on the autism spectrum.
Partnering with Beacon Medical Group, Pediatrics Bristol Street
Lighthouse Autism Center, renowned for its expertise in center-based Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy, has recently unveiled an exciting partnership with Beacon Medical Group, Pediatrics Bristol Street, located in Elkhart, Indiana. This groundbreaking collaboration promises to enrich the experience for families by introducing a dedicated sensory room designed to cater to the specific needs of children with autism and other sensory disorders. This initiative reflects Lighthouse Autism Center’s commitment to extending its support beyond its own centers, exemplifying its status as a leader in the field of ABA therapy in the Midwest.
Through this partnership, families attending Beacon Medical Group, Pediatrics Bristol Street will now have access to a haven where sensory stimulation is carefully tailored to enhance comfort and promote engagement for children with autism during appointments and check-ups. As a cornerstone of the community, Lighthouse Autism Center not only delivers unparalleled center-based autism services but also collaborates with community-centric organizations like Beacon Medical Group. Together, they champion initiatives such as sensory rooms, fostering inclusivity and support for individuals with autism both within and outside their facilities. This partnership underscores a shared dedication to enhancing the quality of life for individuals with autism spectrum disorder, reflecting a broader commitment to compassion and understanding within the community.
Lighthouse Sponsored Sensory Room
Lighthouse Autism Center has proudly championed the establishment of a sensory sanctuary within Beacon Medical Group, Pediatrics Bristol Street, dedicated to providing invaluable support to children on the autism spectrum. The primary objective of this nurturing space is to cultivate a haven of safety and tranquility, catering to the needs of children who may experience sensory overload and require a space for decompression during their office visit. Painted in the serene and inviting hues characteristic of all Lighthouse Autism Center locations, this room is thoughtfully adorned with an array of sensory tools and aids meticulously selected to facilitate interaction and communication with children on the autism spectrum.
With an unwavering commitment to fostering inclusivity and empowerment, Lighthouse Autism Center endeavors to extend the reach of education and understanding throughout our communities, particularly in support of children navigating the complexities of the autism spectrum. By spearheading initiatives such as this sensory room, Lighthouse Autism Center exemplifies its dedication to enhancing the quality of life and promoting holistic well-being for individuals with autism, advocating for a world where every child is celebrated and supported on their unique journey of growth and development.
About Autism Spectrum Disorder
Autism is a general term used to describe a group of complex developmental brain disorders – autism spectrum disorders–caused by a combination of genes and environmental influences. Within this spectrum, individuals grapple with an array of challenges ranging from communication hurdles to social complexities and repetitive behaviors, each manifesting in unique and nuanced ways. In the United States, an alarming statistic underscores the prevalence of autism, with an estimated 1 in 36 children falling on the spectrum, highlighting the urgent need for widespread awareness and support initiatives.
Despite the growing recognition of autism’s prevalence, many children continue to be diagnosed later in life, often after the age of 4, despite the potential for reliable diagnosis as early as age 2. This delay in diagnosis underscores the critical importance of early intervention and heightened awareness to ensure timely access to essential resources and support networks. By fostering a deeper understanding of the complexities of autism and advocating for early detection and intervention, we can collectively strive towards a more inclusive and supportive society, where individuals on the autism spectrum are empowered to thrive and contribute their unique perspectives to the world.
Beacon Medical Group, Pediatrics Bristol Street
The teams at Beacon Medical Group Pediatrics Bristol Street and Rieth Boulevard specialize in providing comprehensive care to infants, children, adolescents, and young adults, and is committed to preventive medicine as well as serving the needs of your sick child. Their dedicated medical staff works closely with Beacon Health System hospitals as well as nationally recognized children’s hospitals in Chicago, Indianapolis and Grand Rapids, Michigan.
Headquartered in South Bend, Indiana, with 20 specialized partners and more than 7,000 associates throughout the region, Beacon connects you with the care you and your family need to be your very best. That takes expertise. We are the regional leader in comprehensive, integrated services — from childbirth and pediatrics to cancer, trauma, heart and vascular, stroke, orthopedics and sports medicine, surgery, mental health and so much more. Learn More Here.
Lighthouse Community Education
Lighthouse Autism Center also has a scheduled training with the staff at Beacon Medical Group Pediatrics Bristol Street, in early June to help them better serve patients with autism. Staff at Beacon Medical Group, Bristol Street can apply that understanding to patients who may come in for care. These skills will help the staff to determine what actions to take to better communicate and to help make a child with autism the most comfortable.
Along with partnering with local organizations and events, Lighthouse Autism Center is working hard to bring education to our local communities. Lighthouse Autism Center offers free training to any local community organization or healthcare provider who is looking to better understand how to support and advocate for those with autism. Sessions are led by our highly trained and experienced team of BCBA’s and involves information on the signs of autism, characteristics of autism, and appropriate interactions and de-escalation techniques. These trainings are tailored to specific organizations such as first responders, police departments, medical facilities, libraries, and more. Participants are invited to ask our clinical team about specific situations or questions, and we offer a free autism resource kit with each presentation.
Lighthouse Autism Center is now offering an Autism Friendly Certification – New for 2024! Lighthouse provides your organization with a virtual training course and quiz to gauge retention and understanding of program materials. Following completion of the course, a Lighthouse clinician hosts a virtual Q&A with your organization, and you will receive an ASD Friendly Badge to place on your business/organization’s front door. Certification must be renewed yearly.
About Lighthouse Autism Center
Headquartered in Mishawaka, Indiana, Lighthouse was founded in 2012 parents of a child with autism. Over the past 12 years, Lighthouse has grown into a leading center-based provider of ABA therapy for children on the autism spectrum, with a network of centers across Indiana, Michigan, Illinois, Iowa, and Nebraska. By offering an innovative clinical model called Lighthouse Fusion in a natural, play-based environment, Lighthouse brings together compassionate care and clinical excellence to unlock each child’s unique potential. For more information about Lighthouse, visit the company’s website at www.lighthouseautismcenter.com.
Lighthouse Autism Center (LAC) has embarked on an extraordinary journey of growth, blossoming from its modest origins of supporting just four families under one roof to evolving into a sprawling network of centers across five states. Over the span of more than a decade, our commitment to excellence has enabled us to touch the lives of hundreds of families, spanning across four states. It’s a testament to our unwavering dedication and the trust placed in us by the community. Our array of services is as diverse as it is comprehensive, encompassing not only ABA therapy but also our innovative Lighthouse Fusion® speech therapy, autism diagnostic testing, invaluable parent training, engaging social skills group sessions, pre-academic enrichment programs, and much more. As we continue to expand our reach, our mission remains steadfast: to illuminate the path towards brighter futures for individuals and families impacted by autism spectrum disorders.
Our newest play-based ABA therapy center is now open, our third center to open in Iowa, providing autism services to 25 children and their families and creating over 35 new jobs in the area.
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 Marion, 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.
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.
To learn more about Lighthouse Autism Center or enroll your child, contact our Family Outreach Coordinator at 563-526-0533 or visit our website.
Marion Center Contact Information
3297 Armar Drive
Marion, Iowa 52302
Family Outreach Phone: 563-526-0533
Don’t see an autism treatment 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!
Find a Center Near You
Interested in finding an autism center near you? Click Find a Center below to view a full list of current autism therapy centers.
Lighthouse Autism Center is Bringing Autism Therapy Services to Kearney, Nebraska
Lighthouse Autism Center (LAC) continues to expand, now with a network of centers in now five states – quite a journey from its humble beginnings serving four families in one building to now serving hundreds of families across five states for over a decade. It is truly amazing. Our services to the Kearney community include ABA therapy, our unique approach to speech therapy called Lighthouse Fusion®, autism diagnostic testing, parent training, pre-academic learning, and more!
Kearney Autism Center coming, Summer of 2024
Our newest play-based ABA therapy center in Kearney, Nebraska makes three children’s Lighthouse autism Center’s to open in Nebraska. This new center is slated to open in the summer of 2024. Kearney Autism Center will provide autism services to 25 families and create over 35 new jobs in the area.
With a mission of providing the highest quality autism services to children and families through our facilities, Lighthouse Autism Center has sought to do just that in Kearney, Nebraska. As the need for ABA services continues to grow, Lighthouse seeks to fill that need by expanding into facilities that can accommodate a larger capacity of learners, helping more families and children with autism, reach their goals.
Lighthouse Autism Center is the Midwest’s leading autism therapy provider
With beautiful child-lead autism therapy clinics 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.
To learn more about Lighthouse Autism Center or enroll your child, contact our Family Outreach Coordinator at 402-534-1486 or visit our website.
Don’t see an autism treatment 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!
Find a Center Near You
Interested in finding an autism center near you? Click Find a Center below to view a full list of current autism therapy centers.
April is Autism Awareness Month, so we’ll examine its history, how it was started, and how everyone in the community can contribute to raising awareness.
Autism Awareness Month
World Autism Day takes place each year on April 2nd, but because it’s such an important event for millions of families and individuals around the world, we, as a community, get the chance to dedicate the entire month of April to autism awareness. Sanctioned by the United Nations, this year will mark the 17th annual World Autism Awareness Day!
April is dedicated to fostering understanding, acceptance, and support for the autism community. This period serves as a critical platform for educating the public about autism spectrum disorders and advocating for the rights and opportunities of those affected. Through various initiatives and activities, Autism Awareness Month aims to transform the narrative around autism, while also addressing the challenges autistic individuals face daily. It’s a call to action for people to be more inclusive and supportive, creating a world where everyone, regardless of their place on the spectrum, can thrive.
Join us to learn more about this event, take a look at how to celebrate Autism Awareness Month, and explore ways to encourage autism acceptance.
This infographic was given to Lighthouse by Andy Mohr Toyota. It shows the importance of Autism Awareness Month and how to #LightItUpBlue!
Understanding Autism Spectrum Disorder
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is defined by the Autism Society of America as “A complex developmental disability that typically appears during the first three years of life and affects a person’s ability to communicate and interact with others.”
The autism spectrum includes a range of conditions affecting social skills, behaviors, speech, and nonverbal communication. It is defined by a certain set of behaviors and is a “spectrum disorder” that affects individuals differently and to varying degrees. Common disorders found within the autism spectrum include:
Autistic Disorder
Rett syndrome
Childhood disintegrative disorder (also known as Heller’s syndrome)
Signs and symptoms are usually noticeable in early childhood and emerge between 24 and 36 months of age. One of the most important autism tools for parents involves learning the early signs of autism in children and infants. It is important that you are familiar with the typical developmental milestones your child should be reaching as well.
Some of the most common signs of ASD in children are:
Not responding to their name
Avoiding eye contact
Getting very upset if they do not like a certain taste, smell, or sound
Repetitive movements and phrases
One-sided conversations without needing a response
Of course, ASD is unique in every person, and no two autistic people will be the same.
Children with ASD also tend to excel at particular things and have above-average intelligence. Some things that they might excel at include music, academics, and visual skills. Roughly 40% of those diagnosed with autism have above-average intellectual abilities.
Inclusion and acceptance of autistic people are just as important as increasing understanding and awareness of Autism Spectrum Disorder.
Interesting facts about Autism Awareness Month
Prepare for Autism Awareness Month by reviewing the facts about this event.
In 1972, the Autism Society launched the first annual National Autistic Children’s Week, but it wasn’t until 2007 that the United Nations General Assembly declared April 2nd the official Autism Awareness Day.
Although Autism Awareness Day still officially falls on April 2nd, most countries recognize the entire month of April as Autism Awareness Month.
If you’re wondering what the color for Autism Awareness Month is, it’s blue. It’s also the official color for the “Light It Up Blue” campaign. However, many people choose to wear other bright colors to help promote this month as well.
How to raise awareness about autism
April serves as an opportunity to promote the inclusion of autistic individuals in all aspects of society, including education, employment, and community involvement. By encouraging the understanding and acceptance of autism, we can work towards creating a more inclusive world for autistic people.
One way to support Autism Awareness Month is by participating in events and activities that promote understanding and acceptance. These can include fundraisers, walks, and educational workshops. Another way to show support is by patronizing businesses that employ autistic individuals or donating to organizations that provide resources and services for the autism community.
Autism Awareness Month also recognizes the important role of caregivers in the lives of autistic people. Caregivers face unique challenges and often go unrecognized for their unwavering dedication and love. This month is an opportunity to show appreciation for caregivers and the vital role they play in supporting individuals with autism.
In addition, Autism Awareness Month highlights the need for continued research into the causes and treatments of Autism Spectrum Disorder. By investing in research, we can improve our understanding of autism and work towards more effective interventions and support.
How to celebrate Autism Awareness Month and beyond
While it is important to have a month dedicated to raising awareness about autism, we don’t believe that autism acceptance should be limited to a single month — it’s something that should be practiced daily. If you would like to raise awareness about autism everyday, here are some actions you can take.
Educate yourself
True awareness begins with personal education. Delve into resources to gain a deeper understanding of autism and its impacts on individuals and families.
Attend local events
There are ongoing autism awareness events throughout the year. Show your support by attending these events, taking your friends and family, and even volunteering if you have the time.
Stand up for others
If you see an autistic person being bullied or hear someone talking negatively about them, it’s time to stand up and let them know that it’s not okay. Taking a stand makes a significant difference in fostering a respectful and inclusive society.
Set a positive example
Through your actions, demonstrate that all individuals, autistic or allistic (non-autistic), deserve equal respect and kindness. Being a positive influence encourages others to follow suit, creating a ripple effect of acceptance and support.
Methods of inclusion and acceptance
One of the biggest issues that people with ASD face is the feeling that they are not included and accepted. This could be for children in school or an adult at work.
If you’re allistic, it’s easy to help autistic people feel more included. Keep an open mind and an open heart when interacting with autistic people. Invite them into your circles and to events (even if you know they will decline), and encourage other allistic people to treat autistic people with respect and understanding.
You can also become more involved by calling or writing to local legislators, state representatives, and other leaders about proposed legislation that could impact autistic people. Be aware of how new policies affect access to things like services, research, insurance, and more. Speak up and encourage others to do the same.
FAQs
Let’s recap by taking a look at some of the most fundamental principles of Autism Awareness Month.
When is Autism Awareness Month?
April is Autism Awareness Month and serves as a global opportunity to expand understanding and acceptance of ASD. However, actively raising awareness and continuing to support people with ASD every day of the year is important to do your part in creating a more inclusive and supportive society for all people.
Why is autism awareness important?
Understanding ASD breaks down the barriers of ignorance and misconception, allowing autistic individuals to thrive in environments that acknowledge and respect their unique challenges and strengths. Awareness fosters empathy, encouraging communities to adapt and create supportive structures, such as inclusive education programs and workplace accommodations, which empower autistic individuals to live fulfilling lives.
What are the autism awareness colors?
Blue is the official color of autism awareness. Even so, during the month of April, wearing bright, bold colors in celebration and support of autism is widely accepted and encouraged!
Celebrate diversity with Lighthouse Autism Center
Contact us at Lighthouse Autism Center for more information about Autism Awareness Month. We offer a range of autism resources and information about our unique Lighthouse Fusion ABA therapy program that you can access online.
Leading ABA Provider Sponsors Sensory Room at Smiley Mishawaka to help support children on the autism spectrum.
Sensory Room Partnership Through Lighthouse Autism Center
Lighthouse Autism Center, renowned for its expertise in center-based Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy, has recently unveiled an exciting partnership with Smiley Mishawaka, a dynamic adventure park for children and adults. This groundbreaking collaboration promises to enrich the experience for families by introducing a dedicated sensory room designed to cater to the specific needs of children with autism and other sensory disorders. This initiative reflects Lighthouse Autism Center’s commitment to extending its support beyond its own centers, exemplifying its status as a frontrunner in the field of ABA therapy in the Midwest.
Through this innovative alliance, families attending Smiley Mishawaka will now have access to a haven where sensory stimulation is carefully tailored to enhance comfort and promote engagement for children with autism. As a cornerstone of the community, Lighthouse Autism Center not only delivers unparalleled center-based autism services but also collaborates with esteemed local organizations like Smiley Mishawaka. Together, they champion initiatives such as sensory rooms, fostering inclusivity and support for individuals with autism both within and outside their facilities. This partnership underscores a shared dedication to enhancing the quality of life for individuals with autism spectrum disorder, reflecting a broader commitment to compassion and understanding within the community.
Lighthouse Sponsored Sensory Room
Lighthouse Autism Center has proudly championed the establishment of a sensory sanctuary within Smiley Mishawaka, dedicated to providing invaluable support to children on the autism spectrum. The primary objective of this nurturing space is to cultivate a haven of safety and tranquility, catering to the needs of children who may experience sensory overload and require a space for decompression. Painted in the serene and inviting hues characteristic of all Lighthouse Autism Center locations, this room is thoughtfully adorned with an array of sensory tools and aids meticulously selected to facilitate interaction and communication with children on the autism spectrum.
With an unwavering commitment to fostering inclusivity and empowerment, Lighthouse Autism Center endeavors to extend the reach of education and understanding throughout our communities, particularly in support of children navigating the complexities of the autism spectrum. By spearheading initiatives such as this sensory room, Lighthouse Autism Center exemplifies its dedication to enhancing the quality of life and promoting holistic well-being for individuals with autism, advocating for a world where every child is celebrated and supported on their unique journey of growth and development.
About Autism Spectrum Disorder
Autism is a general term used to describe a group of complex developmental brain disorders – autism spectrum disorders–caused by a combination of genes and environmental influences. Within this spectrum, individuals grapple with an array of challenges ranging from communication hurdles to social complexities and repetitive behaviors, each manifesting in unique and nuanced ways. In the United States, an alarming statistic underscores the prevalence of autism, with an estimated 1 in 36 children falling on the spectrum, highlighting the urgent need for widespread awareness and support initiatives.
Despite the growing recognition of autism’s prevalence, many children continue to be diagnosed later in life, often after the age of 4, despite the potential for reliable diagnosis as early as age 2. This delay in diagnosis underscores the critical importance of early intervention and heightened awareness to ensure timely access to essential resources and support networks. By fostering a deeper understanding of the complexities of autism and advocating for early detection and intervention, we can collectively strive towards a more inclusive and supportive society, where individuals on the autism spectrum are empowered to thrive and contribute their unique perspectives to the world.
Embark on an out-of-this-world journey at Smiley Mishawaka, where every visit promises an intergalactic adventure! Step into a playground that defies gravity with its adult-sized ball pit, towering slides, and an array of thrilling equipment. Little explorers can dive into a toddler-exclusive ball pit, complete with miniature slides and captivating train tracks. Ascend to new heights in their three-level jungle gym, teeming with twists, turns, and tunnels awaiting discovery. Test your skills on the basketball/dodgeball trampoline, conquer the wall climbing challenge, or take a plunge down the exhilarating drop slide or the whimsical donut slide.
Experience an interactive gaming paradise at Smiley’s, where a rice pit, engaging wall and tube games, as well as LEGO and toy tables, await your imagination. With over 60 cutting-edge arcade games and dedicated Nerf gun arenas tailored for ages 6-10 and 11+, there’s endless fun for everyone to enjoy. Dive into prehistoric times with their Dino-Land experience, where you can mount a dinosaur for a ride and capture unforgettable moments with a towering T-rex. Visit Smiley’s in Mishawaka for an adventure that transcends the ordinary and creates memories that will last a lifetime.
Lighthouse Community Education
Along with partnering with local organizations and events, Lighthouse Autism Center is working hard to bring education to our local communities. Lighthouse Autism Center offers free training to any local community organization or healthcare provider who is looking to better understand how to support and advocate for those with autism. Sessions are led by our highly trained and experienced team of BCBA’s and involves information on the signs of autism, characteristics of autism, and appropriate interactions and de-escalation techniques. These trainings are tailored to specific organizations such as first responders, police departments, medical facilities, libraries, and more. Participants are invited to ask our clinical team about specific situations or questions, and we offer a free autism resource kit with each presentation.
Lighthouse Autism Center is now offering an Autism Friendly Certification – New for 2024! Lighthouse provides your organization with a virtual training course and quiz to gauge retention and understanding of program materials. Following completion of the course, a Lighthouse clinician hosts a virtual Q&A with your organization, and you will receive an ASD Friendly Badge to place on your business/organization’s front door. Certification must be renewed yearly.
Allison Steele’s Journey in Special Education Teaching
Allison Steele discusses her journey in Special Education, leading her to her current role at Lighthouse Autism Center. Lighthouse is excited to welcome Allison Steele to our Elkhart County Team. As a special education teacher with experience in Indiana and Michigan, Allison brings her deep knowledge and expertise of special education to Lighthouse where she will support learners in developing skills to help them be successful in the classroom. Allison is currently working with our Goshen center to implement a daily school routine while providing consultations and training to our Elkhart autism centers.
From Humble Beginnings in South Bend, Indiana
As I reflect on my journey through the realm of education, it’s remarkable to see how each step has shaped my understanding and approach to teaching. My voyage began with a Bachelor’s degree in English, with a focus on writing, coupled with minors in East Asian Studies and Psychology from Indiana University – South Bend (IUSB). Little did I know then that this would be just the starting point of an enriching expedition.
After completing my undergraduate studies, I embarked on a fulfilling yet challenging role as a substitute teacher in Michigan. This experience, which included long-term positions in Special Education for elementary grades, left an indelible mark on me. Witnessing the progress of my students ignited a desire to delve deeper into the field of education.
Pursuing Further Education to Provide Tailored Support
Fuelled by this newfound passion, I returned to Indiana University – South Bend to pursue a Master’s degree in Special Education. During this period, I had the privilege of working with elementary students in a General Education setting, providing tailored support in both academics and social skills development.
The culmination of my academic journey came during my Student Teaching, where I engaged with students across different age groups and needs. From elementary to secondary levels, the focus remained steadfast on nurturing academic proficiency, social adeptness, and life skills essential for post-high school transitions.
This diverse exposure equipped me with a repertoire of teaching methodologies and de-escalation techniques, which I honed further upon joining Lighthouse Autism Center (LAC) as a Registered Behavior Technician (RBT). At LAC, I delved into the intricacies of behavioral analysis and reinforcement strategies, recognizing the profound impact of effective communication and life skill cultivation.
Armed with invaluable insights and experiences, I completed my Master’s degree in Special Education and transitioned to a middle school setting in Indiana. The role provided an opportunity for further growth, with training in Special Education laws, protocols, and classroom management techniques.
Inclusive Learning with a Pre-academic Focus at Lighthouse Autism Center
However, my journey came full circle when I returned to LAC, this time as a Special Education Teacher. In this role, I engage with learners in a small group classroom environment, following a structured curriculum encompassing academics, specials (PE, Music, and Art), and social skills development. The ultimate goal is to prepare these learners for eventual integration into the public school system, equipped with the necessary tools for success.
As I traverse the dynamic landscape of Special Education, I am continually reminded of the transformative power of education. Each interaction, each challenge, serves as a catalyst for growth and learning, not just for my students but for myself as well. And as I navigate this ever-evolving terrain, I am reminded of the profound privilege it is to play a part in shaping the futures of those entrusted to my care.
Lighthouse Autism Center is Bringing Autism Therapy Services to Lincoln, Nebraska
Lighthouse Autism Center (LAC) continues to expand, now with a network of centers in now five states – quite a journey from its humble beginnings serving four families in one building to now serving hundreds of families across five states for over a decade. It is truly amazing. Our services to the Lincoln community include ABA therapy, our unique approach to speech therapy called Lighthouse Fusion®, autism diagnostic testing, parent training, pre-academic learning, and more!
Lincoln Autism Center coming, Summer of 2024
Our newest play-based ABA therapy center in Lincoln, Nebraska makes 2 children’s Lighthouse autism Center’s to open in Nebraska, with plans for additional locations. This new center is slated to open in the summer of 2024. Lincoln Autism Center will provide autism services to 30 families and create over 45 new jobs in the area.
With a mission of providing the highest quality autism services to children and families through our facilities, Lighthouse Autism Center has sought to do just that in Lincoln, Nebraska. As the need for ABA services continues to grow, Lighthouse seeks to fill that need by expanding into facilities that can accommodate a larger capacity of learners, helping more families and children with autism, reach their goals.
Lighthouse Autism Center is the Midwest’s leading autism therapy provider
With beautiful child-lead autism therapy clinics 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.
To learn more about Lighthouse Autism Center or enroll your child, contact our Family Outreach Coordinator at 402-534-1486 or visit our website.
Don’t see an autism treatment 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!
Find a Center Near You
Interested in finding an autism center near you? Click Find a Center below to view a full list of current autism therapy centers.
Lighthouse Autism Center is Bringing Autism Therapy Services to Marion and North Liberty, Iowa
Lighthouse Autism Center (LAC) continues to expand, now with a network of centers in now five states – quite a journey from its humble beginnings serving four families in one building to now serving hundreds of families across five states for over a decade. It is truly amazing. Our services to the Marion and North Liberty communities include ABA therapy, our unique approach to speech therapy called Lighthouse Fusion®, autism diagnostic testing, parent training, social skills group services, pre-academic learning, and more!
Marion and North Liberty Autism Center coming, Summer of 2024
Our newest play-based ABA therapy centers in Marion and North Liberty, Iowa makes 4 children’s Lighthouse autism Center’s to open in Iowa. These new centers are slated to open in the summer of 2024. Marion Autism Center will provide autism services to 25 families and create over 35 new jobs in the area and North Liberty Autism Center will provide autism services to 30 families and create over 45 new jobs in the area.
With a mission of providing the highest quality autism services to children and families through our facilities, Lighthouse Autism Center has sought to do just that in Marion and North Liberty, Iowa. As the need for ABA services continues to grow, Lighthouse seeks to fill that need by expanding into facilities that can accommodate a larger capacity of learners, helping more families and children with autism, reach their goals.
Lighthouse Autism Center is the Midwest’s leading autism therapy provider
With beautiful child-lead autism therapy clinics 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.
To learn more about Lighthouse Autism Center or enroll your child, contact our Family Outreach Coordinator at 402-534-1486 or visit our website.
Don’t see an autism treatment 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!
Find a Center Near You
Interested in finding an autism center near you? Click Find a Center below to view a full list of current autism therapy centers.
LAC to Provide Autism Training to the City of South Bend
Police and Firefighters in the city of South Bend, Indiana will attend a new training provided by Lighthouse Autism Center in early 2024 to help them better serve individuals with autism during crisis. The training is meant to help emergency responders with techniques for approaching and building rapport, communication, de-escalation and safety. These skills will help first responders to determine what actions to take to better communicate and to help bring an individual with autism to safety. Similar to this training, Lighthouse has provided autism training to Peyton Manning Children’s Hospital and many other community organizations and healthcare providers!
Autism and Education in the Community
Lighthouse Autism Center offers a community education program that works with any local community organization or healthcare provider who is looking to better understand how to support and advocate for those with autism. Sessions are led by our highly experienced team of Board Certified Behavior Analyst’s (BCBA’s) and involve information on the signs and characteristics of autism, and appropriate interactions and de-escalation techniques. These trainings are tailored to specific organizations such as first responders, police departments, medical facilities, libraries, collage healthcare programs, and more. Participants are invited to ask our clinical team about specific situations or questions, and Lighthouse offers a free autism resource kit with each presentation. This kit includes materials that may help individuals on the spectrum meet their sensory needs and aid in communication. This is just one of the ways Lighthouse is pursuing it’s mission to “positively impact individuals with autism and those that care for them,” by bringing awareness to autism, educating parents and caregivers on the signs of autism, and giving the communities we serve the tools to foster an environment of inclusivity and acceptance of neurodiversity.
Autism Friendly Certification
As part of Lighthouse’s commitment to community education, Lighthouse is also in the final stages of designing an Autism Friendly Certification program for local organizations looking to train their teams on skills and techniques for interacting with and supporting individuals with autism. This program will be free to community organizations and will include both online training modules as well as live training sessions with clinical team members.
ABA and Speech Therapy at Lighthouse Autism Center
ABA Therapy principles have been applied since the early 1960s to both children and adults with various developmental diagnosis. Since then, there has been an evolution and improvement in the therapy techniques used in ABA, however, the core teaching of ABA has stayed the same. ABA is scientifically validated, and data driven and consistently shows the best outcomes for children with autism.
At Lighthouse Autism Center, we offer the highest quality ABA and speech therapy in a beautiful, play-based environment. With an innovative speech therapy model called Lighthouse Fusion®, children are making greater progress, faster, all while having fun. Children are immersed in imaginary spaces where they can naturally explore their interests, engage in sensory experiences, and practice language. Each child’s progress can be seen in smiles and laughter, because we know children learn best when they’re having fun.
Indiana’s Largest Center-Based ABA Provider Announces New Technology That Will Change How Clinicians Collect and Track Learner Data
Lighthouse Autism Center, a Midwest ABA therapy provider has announced a new clinical project that will enhance outcomes for children with autism enrolled in their centers. Led by Chief Clinical Officer, Leila Allen, the Learner Outcomes Project is transforming the way clinicians collect, analyze, and use learner data across Lighthouse’s 33 center locations.
With the support and guidance of industry consultants, a third-party technology and data analytics firm, and thousands of data points Lighthouse has collected in their 11 years of operation, Lighthouse is using its data in an innovative way to enhance clinical quality, support clinicians, and drive positive outcomes.
Through the creation of an advanced data application called the Outcomes App, the Lighthouse Team has analyzed thousands of learners, their medical and behavior history, treatment plans, programming, and more to gather valuable insights into progress, length of care, and other factors that may impact a learner’s success while at Lighthouse.
The ongoing use of the Outcomes App will provide the tools for Lighthouse’s team of Board-Certified Behavior Analysts to collect learner data in a standardized way by using norm-referenced assessment tools like the Vineland-3 Comprehensive Assessment and the Behavioral Health Index. With over 700 learners enrolled at Lighthouse, the volume of data collected is ever growing.
In the future, we anticipate clinicians can use the Outcomes App to track their learners’ progress with standardized assessments that will allow them to measure progress against learners with similar profiles, access a database of other learner data across Lighthouse, and ultimately provide a more standardized way to track outcomes, while still recognizing the individuality of the learners we serve. Clinicians will also be able to track the trajectory of outcomes and see if their learners are progressing as expected, or if changes need to be made. This will give all levels of clinical leadership oversight into the quality of programming happening at Lighthouse.
Lighthouse believes in bringing together compassionate care and clinical excellence. The Learner Outcomes Project is just one of the ways Lighthouse continues to invest in clinical quality to ensure that learners at Lighthouse are on the cutting edge of clinical practices and receiving the highest quality therapy.
About Lighthouse Autism Center
Lighthouse Autism Center offers autism therapy services in a natural, play-based environment. Children are immersed in imaginary spaces where they can naturally explore their interests, engage in sensory experiences, and practice language. At the newest center in Omaha, Nebraska, families will have the opportunity to benefit from ABA therapy, speech therapy, school programming, parent training and diagnostic services to meet each child and family where they are on their autism journey.
Lighthouse Autism Center (LAC) continues to expand, now with a network of centers in four states – quite a journey from its humble beginnings serving four families in one building to now serving hundreds of families across four states for over a decade. It is truly amazing.
Our newest state-of-the-art ABA therapy center is now open, our second center to open in Iowa, providing autism services to 30 children and their families and creating over 45 new jobs in the area.
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 Clinton, 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.
Clinton Autism Center Open House
Save the date! Lighthouse Autism Center – Clinton is hosting anopen house!
Thursday, September 21, 2023, 2pm – 6pm
You will have a chance to:
Tour our beautiful play-based therapy center
Learn more about our services and unique Fusion therapy program.
Learn about our enrollment process.
Network with clinicians and other parents
Enjoy light refreshments.
Located at: Clinton Autism Center 1310 19th Ave NW, Suite 1 Clinton, Iowa 52732
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 clinical 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 brings these two therapies together into one enhanced therapy solution. We invite you to learn more about how this innovative clinical model is helping to unlock each child’s potential.
To learn more about Lighthouse Autism Center or enroll your child, contact our Family Outreach Coordinator at 563-526-0533 or visit our website.
Clinton Center Contact Information
1310 19th Ave NW, Suite 1
Clinton, Iowa 52732
Family Outreach Phone: 563-526-0533
Don’t see an autism treatment 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!
Find a Center Near You
Interested in finding an autism center near you? Click Find a Center below to view a full list of current autism therapy centers.
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Lighthouse Autism Center offers ABA therapy for children with autism. Contact us to learn how our innovative clinical model can help your child make greater progress, faster, all while having fun.
