If you’ve ever witnessed a child overcome obstacles and enjoy victories large or small, the term “it takes a village” probably makes your heart swell with gratitude and joy. We all know that behind every success, there usually lies a community of people who’ve believed deeply in that young person, and who’ve done everything possible to unlock their potential.
For many autistic and neurodivergent individuals in the Capital Region of New York State, such a circle of support can be found at The Anderson Center Clinic in Latham.
Explained Clinic Director Ashlie Symer, MS, BCBA, LBA-NY, “Our program is designed to complement all of the important work that parents, caregivers, related service providers, and classroom teachers are doing to optimize the quality of life for children with autism and other neurodiversities. We offer a wide range of evidence-based services rooted in the principles of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), and focus on empowering children with the skills and confidence they need to fully thrive. Whether we are looking to strengthen social, communication, or behavioral skills, or some combination thereof, our team will custom-design a plan that will ultimately translate to better outcomes in each child’s classroom, community, and in his or her home as well.”
“And our family-centered approach,” Symer added, “means that our multidisciplinary team works collaboratively and closely with parents and caregivers, so that they have what’s needed to help generalize the skills across various settings.”
“I think this is a cornerstone of success – being set up to ensure that the people who are with these children more than anyone else also have a solid understanding of ABA practices. We are not only enriching the lives of the children with whom we work, but we are also giving these families greater confidence in their ability to bring out the best in their wonderful children. It is deeply rewarding to see the many ways that they come away from the experiences here feeling prepared, energized, and motivated. And to hear the many ways life improves for these children and their families as a result of their work with us likewise leaves everyone on our team feeling inspired too.”
Developmental needs, she explained, vary widely from one child to another, so every situation demands a specialized approach and meticulous attention to detail. “As we all know, if you’ve met one person on the spectrum, you’ve met one person on the spectrum. The same is true for anyone who is neurodivergent. By looking closely at unique challenges, characteristics, and strengths, we can really hone in on how to cultivate growth, discovery, and how to build the critical skills each child most needs.”
The recommendations that ensue might include one-to-one and/or group experiences. “Our 1:1 sessions focus on increasing functional communication, developing age-appropriate functional play and leisure skills, building independence across activities of daily living (toileting, sleep, feeding, play), and cultivating school readiness skills: focus, attention, communication, following schedules, and the development of adaptive behaviors.”
Symer continued, “We also offer afterschool social groups that help enhance social skills with peers and group readiness skills, build independence, and help children learn how to navigate expectations of others. These are a great way for children to feel more equipped to connect with others, which also leads to healthy self-esteem development.”
“And our Clinic setting,” Symer explained, “is equal parts structured and nurturing. We want children to feel right at home and deeply cherished for exactly who they are, and by staying highly focused on desired outcomes in the context of that collective compassion, we yield exciting and measurable results. So many of these children just need a little more support than they currently get at school, and by working with our team at Anderson Center Clinic, they end up with tools that transform their lives (and the lives of their families as well). We love seeing how supplemental services, which might only take a few hours a day, can be such a game-changer. Children and families often come to us feeling a little defeated, but within a few sessions, start enjoying breakthrough moments and begin to realize their own enormous potential. Working with our team gives them what they need to really shine – now and in the future.”
The Anderson Center Clinic does accept insurance and also offers flexible private-pay options.
If you sense that it’s time to expand your “village” to help refine skills, cultivate a deep sense of self, and elevate chances of long-term success for your child, this caring group can help.
There are also opportunities for those looking to build a career at The Anderson Center Clinic. Indeed, it is purpose-driven work ideal for those seeking a chance to align with the very values that probably first inspired them to enter professions like teaching, speech/occupational therapy, and related roles.
“Working here gives you a chance to catalyze the kind of progress that can lead to a better life for our children and their families. And it comes with robust benefits, generous time off, retirement plans with employer contributions, and career advancement pathways,” reflected Symer. “Not only do our children and their families get what they need to thrive, but our team does as well.”
“We ALL need the right ‘village’ in life – and many find it right here at The Anderson Center Clinic.”
Learn more about enrolling in our ABA programs or inquire about open positions by visiting www.andersoncenterclinic.org or emailing andersonclinic@andersoncares.org.