Positive Development

Play-based autism therapy (developmental, in-home and in-center)

Up to age 21

Developmental, relationship-based autism therapy that is child-led and play-based, as an alternative to traditional ABA. It serves any child or teen with an autism diagnosis, including those who also have ADHD or learning disabilities. Services include occupational therapy (sensory processing, regulation, motor planning), speech language therapy (apraxia, AAC, gestalt language processing), and mental health therapy (play and talk therapy, family therapy, social-emotional groups). Developmental client coaches usually work in the family's home, while most speech and OT visits happen in centers, and parent training is often by telehealth. It suggests at least 6 hours of therapy a week plus 2 hours of monthly parent support. Parents meet the team quarterly and goals are reassessed every six months. Virtual diagnostics are offered for ages 18 months to 9 years. Paid by Aetna, Anthem Blue Cross, Blue Shield of California, Partners Direct Health and several regional centers including ELARC, Lanterman, SGPRC and SCLARC. It is also a school district nonpublic agency. The site lists no Medi-Cal coverage in California. There may be a waiting period after assessment.

• Developmental relationship-based autism therapy, Occupational therapy, Speech language therapy, Mental health therapy, Parent coaching and Autism diagnostics
• Insurance: Regional center funded: vendored with a California regional center; Paid by a school district through an IEP (a nonpublic agency or school)
• Where care happens: In the family’s home; At the clinic or office
• Telehealth or video visits: yes

• Activities: Occupational therapy, Speech therapy, Child therapy & counseling and Testing & evaluation