Autism

Connections at NDA

Connections at NDA Behavioral Health is a program helping children, adolescents and adults with developmental disabilities, including Autism spectrum disorders, receive intensive mental health treatment. NDA’s treatment approach focuses on stabilizing behaviors by learning new skills and discovering new strengths and abilities for the first time. By employing proven methodologies, we measure each person’s progress and prepare families for a successful reintegration home.

Interdisciplinary Team Approach

Each person in our care has an interdisciplinary team of professionals guiding their treatment. The interdisciplinary team at NDA includes:

  • Board Certified Psychiatrist
  • 24 Hour Nursing Staff
  • Licensed Clinical Director
  • Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA)
  • School Principal and Special Education Teacher
  • Speech, Language and Occupational Therapist
  • Dietician and Specially Trained Behavior Specialists

Applied Behavior Analysis & Positive Behavior Supports

Connections at NDA’s behavior improvement system is guided by the principles of applied behavior analysis and positive behavior supports. Upon admission, every individual will receive a Functional Behavior Assessment. Our skilled BCBA will also use this assessment to develop a Behavioral Intervention Plan (BIP) focused on developing strategies to eliminate:

  • Off-task/disruptive behaviors
  • Self-injurious behaviors
  • Aggressive and non-compliant behaviors
  • Behaviors that interfere with the resident’s opportunity to acquire and produce academic and social skills acceptable in community and school environments

Communication & Building Relationships

Communication is the cornerstone of the teaching and learning process and is reinforced across all parts of each child’s day. Connections at NDA places a high priority on strengthening each resident’s communication and social relationship skills. Functional communication is an integral part of the curriculum and includes using American Sign Language (ASL), Picture Exchange Communication Systems (PECS) and augmentative or assistive technology.