If you’re looking for autism treatment near Bladen, or the surrounding areas, ShineLight can help. We offer a variety of services for people with autism, including providing residential services (in the client’s home or in one of our 24-hour group residences), connecting families to supportive employment services and community living services, and providing community outreach and education.
At ShineLight, we understand that autism does not affect every person the same way; every person has unique strengths and challenges regarding their social behavior and cognitive ability. This means that treatment plans are tailored to the person’s individual needs. Though there is no cure for Autism Spectrum Disorder, there are interventions that have the ability to reduce symptoms and improve daily living skills while maximizing the person’s ability to excel in the community.
Common Treatment Options
Autism treatment and support can include occupational therapy, speech therapy, dietary approaches, applied behavioral analysis, and medication.
- Occupational therapy will teach the person how to be as independent as possible by learning how to feed themselves, bathe, get dressed, and relate to others.
- Speech therapy will consist of improving communication skills. While some people can learn verbal communication others will use gestures and picture boards.
- It is common for certain foods and a lack of minerals to cause a flare up with ASD symptoms. Finding a diet that works for your family can be helpful.
- Applied behavioral analysis increases communication skills, improves focus and memory, and decreases negative behaviors. A certain goal is set and when the person meets this goal, they are rewarded. The positive reward encourages the person to continue to use the skill or behavior.
- There isn’t a medication that cures ASD, but certain medications help the person manage anxiety, seizures, self-injury, and depression.
Activities and Daily Practices that Support People with Autism
There are many activities and daily practices that families can work into their routines to help support an autistic family member. For example, sensory play can regulate meltdowns and stimulate scent, touch, sound, sight, and taste. Sensory activities such as fidget toys, play dough, and music such as chimes allow the person to learn about their surroundings. Grounding techniques such as listening to calming music, listing five objects around the room, and performing yoga exercises bring focus to the present moment and relieve agitation. Finally, daily practices such as combing hair, brushing teeth, and working on household chores will enable the person to build independence.
ShineLight: Autism Treatment Near Bladen
ShineLight, an organization which provides autism treatment and support, was founded in 2006 and assists those with autism whether they live at home or in one of the 24-hour ShineLight residences. We help clients with a range of needs. Our goal is for individuals to feel comfortable and learn new skills. For more information, contact us.
About ShineLight
ShineLight is a unique organization created with the distinct purpose of providing a brighter life and future for individuals with autism. ShineLight serves as a guiding light for individuals and their families by leading the way in support services and community advocacy. Their service areas include: Fayetteville, Wake, Sampson, Scotland, Duplin, Wayne, Lenoir, Greene, Wilson, Edgecombe, Durham, Johnston, Cumberland, Hoke, Robeson, and Bladen Counties.
