Autism Center in Des Moines, IA - Highland Park area (Park Fair Shopping Center)

ABA is the gold standard for treating autism and is the most widely studied and effective treatment available. ABA is recommended by major American medical associations and the US Surgeon General. CBT is generally not the best fit for preschool-aged children with autism, especially those with minimal communication skills.

Some children with autism have symptoms that can be supported by occupational therapy (OT), such as sensory sensitivities or gross motor challenges. Stride partners with local OT providers, as applicable, to ensure proper coordination of care. That said, ABA is typically the therapy that makes the biggest difference for children with autism.

Decades of clinical studies have shown that young children with autism who received intensive ABA therapy demonstrated:

1. Larger increases in IQ and adaptive functioning
2. Fewer challenging behaviors and social problems
3. Increased likelihood of fully joining regular education without assistance

ABA uses positive reinforcement to promote increases in desirable behaviors. As a result, we see its application across a wide range of uses. From school settings where teachers reinforce participation and task completion to marketing executives who develop loyalty programs, ABA is everywhere.

Your involvement is key to your child’s success. We provide regular updates, training sessions, and opportunities to collaborate so you feel empowered to support your child at home.

We’re here to make the process as simple as possible. Contact us through our website or call the center closest to you. Our team will walk you through assessments, insurance details, and the next steps. Learn more about the Enrollment Process.

If your child has autism or is showing developmental delays, ABA therapy could make a big difference. Reach out to us, and we’ll help assess your child’s unique needs and potential benefits.

ABA can be helpful until therapy goals are met or if progress is not being made. Stride specializes in supporting preschool children ages 2 through 6 with the goal of making significant and meaningful progress that reduces the need for continued ABA post-Stride. For children who can benefit from continued ABA after the age of 6, Stride can provide a referral to other organizations that can provide care in-home or after school.

Absolutely. Every child is different, and we take the time to create a therapy plan tailored specifically to your child’s strengths, challenges, and goals.

Stride Autism Centers is dedicated to serving children ages 2 to 6, a critical time for early intervention and skill development. If your child is within this age range, we’re ready to help.

Research shows that the earlier we intervene and begin therapy, the better the outcomes. This makes intuitive sense as kids have greater plasticity in their behavior the younger they are.

As kids grow older, they develop compensatory habits that make it more difficult to teach new, positive skills. For these reasons and more, Stride specializes in supporting preschool-aged children (ages 2 to 6) with autism. Typically, the earliest someone can be diagnosed with autism is 18 months old. Beginning ABA shortly after that is optimal for families who want their children to realize their potential.

If your child has autism or is showing developmental delays, ABA therapy could make a big difference. Reach out to us, and we’ll help assess your child’s unique needs and potential benefits.

Costs can vary, but most insurance plans cover ABA therapy when medically necessary. We’ll work with you to confirm coverage and help minimize out-of-pocket expenses.