Autism Services

Group Language Therapy with Discrete Trial Teaching
(based on Applied Behavioral Analysis Principles)

New CDC research shows one in one hundred ten (110) American children, and one in fifty-five (55) boys is diagnosed with an Autism Spectrum Disorder, a higher incidence rate than pediatric cancer, diabetes, and AIDS combined. This incidence rate is 100% higher than ten years ago and ten times higher than a generation ago. Delayed or impaired development of language and social skills is frequently a major issue for these children.

BRSHF offers an early intervention program for children (ages 18 months to five years) diagnosed with an Autism Spectrum Disorder. Individuals with autism frequently exhibit delayed language development, restriction of interests, and difficulty with social interactions. It is generally recognized that early intensive and sustained intervention emphasizing communication and socialization is needed for children with autism. Currently, intervention programs based on the principles of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) are the most widely supported treatment approach for establishing language, self-help skills, social skills, and reducing maladaptive behavior. Our program combines one-to-one instruction, based on applied behavior analytic principles, with Group Language Therapy to establish and promote appropriate language development, early academic skills, social skills and adaptive behaviors.

All one-to-one programs are developed and supervised by our on staff Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA). Data on all treatment programs is collected daily, which allows us to make informed data-based decisions on a day to day basis. The one-to-one programs are implemented by our trained paraprofessionals, who work under the direct supervision of our BCBA and doctoral students in psychology. Children receiving one-to-one ABA services also receive group speech and language therapy on the same day. All of our speech and language groups are led by licensed speech therapists that have extensive experience working with children with autism. Our language groups provide the children with a naturalistic environment to promote generalization of skills targeted during one-to-one sessions as well an environment to develop appropriate social, play, and adaptive behavior skills.

As a part of our program we also offer workshops on the topics of: Toilet Training, Behavior Management, Feeding, How to bring therapy into the home, and The basics of ABA and Language Development.

For more information about scientific treatments for Autism Spectrum Disorders, click visit the Association for Science in Autism Treatment online here.

The Greater Baton Rouge Community Guide to ASD Resources

Download PDF

The Baton Rouge Speech and Hearing Foundation and the Junior League of Baton Rouge is pleased to share the this valuable resource developed by parents and professionals from the Greater Baton Rouge community.