SUCCESS STORIES

Mary was a five-year-old child diagnosed with autism. She had very limited language skills and could only repeat two scripted phrases that she learned from her favorite cartoon. When outside, she would pick up sticks or walk in circles, rather than play with others. Mary would hide in her in bedroom and refuse to come out for her birthday, Christmas, and other special events. Mary started in our Behavioral Health & Rehabilitative Services (BHRS) Program through Pathways Community Services. She was provided intense Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA). These interventions focused on communication and social interaction. We taught her how to tell her parents when she was hungry or sick. She picked up on these skills, and began communicating effectively and was interacting with others. Mary had a birthday party with several extended family members and she enjoyed herself. The following year, she invited friends over and played with them. Mary began Kindergarten with a smaller class size, but the same academic structure as her peers. Her BHRS services were gradually less intense and she was able to attend regular education classes with her friends. Mary is currently in choir, girl scouts, dance, and attends sporting events, as they are offered at her school.

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