When children receive an autism spectrum disorder (ASD) diagnosis, their parents might wonder where to turn for help. While early intervention is important, some families find that their child needs a residential treatment program to make lasting progress.
Residential autism treatment centers provide around-the-clock care and supervision for children with ASD. These programs typically use behavior therapy to help children with ASD learn new skills and reduce problematic behaviors.
For children between the ages of 11 and 17, an autism treatment center in Fort Worth, TX is available that provides a safe and supportive environment. When choosing a residential teen autism treatment program, parents should consider their child’s needs and preferences, as well as the program’s philosophy, staff qualifications, cost, and location.
Is Residential Autism Treatment Right for Your Child?
Not sure if residential treatment is right for your child? Here are some questions to ask yourself:
- Is my child’s current treatment plan not working?
- Are certain behaviors causing harm to other family members?
- Is my child in danger of harming themselves or others?
- Is my child not making progress in their current school or day treatment program?
If you answered “yes” to any of these questions, residential treatment might be right for your child.
Families should also consider their child’s preferences and needs when deciding if residential treatment is the right choice. For some children, living away from home is not an option. Others might do well in a residential setting, but only if they can visit home frequently.
What to Expect from Residential Autism Treatment
The first step in any residential autism treatment program is an assessment. This helps staff members get to know your child and develop an individualized treatment plan.
Treatment plans for children with autism generally include:
- Education programs – Continuing their schoolwork while in treatment is important for children with ASD. Many residential autism treatment programs offer on-site education programs that meet the child’s individual needs.
- Autism parent training program – Some residential autism treatment programs offer parent training programs. These give parents the tools they need to support their child’s progress and manage challenging behaviors at home.
- Food and nutrition program – For some children with ASD, specific dietary changes can improve behavior. Residential autism treatment programs can provide meals that meet your child’s needs and preferences.
- Behavioral interventions – Most residential autism treatment programs use behavior therapy to help children with ASD learn new skills and reduce problematic behaviors.
Other autism therapy programs and services that can help children with ASD include medication management, individual therapy programs, family counseling programs, social skills groups, and functional skills training program.
The most effective treatment for your child will be tailored to their individual needs as well as the needs of your family.
What Are the Benefits of Residential Autism Treatment?
For many families, residential autism treatment programs are the best way to help their children make lasting progress. Here are some of the benefits of residential autism treatment:
- Your child will receive around-the-clock care and supervision in a safe environment.
- Your child will receive evidence-based treatment that is tailored to their individual needs.
- You will have the opportunity to participate in parent training programs and gain the tools you need to support your child’s progress.
- Your child will be able to continue their education while in treatment.
Find Residential Autism Treatment Near You
If you are considering residential autism treatment for your child, it is important to choose a program that meets your child’s needs and preferences. To find a residential autism treatment program, talk to your child’s doctor or therapist about programs they would recommend, or reach out to a center near you.