HOPE Center
HOPE Center Overview
The Center for Human Development's HOPE Center provides Hands-On Parent Education to families of children with autism spectrum disorders and other developmental disabilities.
In the past, there were few scientifically-supported treatments to offer families, but now there is hope. Research demonstrates that intensive behavioral intervention can dramatically change the lives of children with autism and other developmental disabilities. Techniques from the field of applied behavior analysis (ABA) effectively teach children to communicate, play appropriately and interact with others. The HOPE Center uses a family-focused approach, stressing partnerships between behavioral specialists and parents. We offer a wide variety of services to families, as outlined below.
Center-based Preschool Programs
The HOPE Center offers several programs to families, each of which incorporates hands-on parent education. We offer two intensive center-based programs for preschoolers with autism:
Behavioral Consultation
The HOPE Center provides individual consultation from psychologists with expertise in applied behavior analysis, many of whom are Board Certified Behavior Analysts. Families meet individually with HOPE Center psychologists on a regular basis to treat a variety of behavior problems. Consultants can also work with local school districts to help with educational planning and/or behavior management in class.
Toilet Learning Clinic
The Toilet Learning Clinic is designed to teach children with autism or other developmental disabilities to use the toilet. At TLC, behavioral psychologists work individually with families during a 7-hour, concentrated program, using an evidence-based, behavior-analytic approach.
Programs for Parents
The HOPE Center offers programs for parents who want more information about using behavioral interventions for children with autism and other developmental disabilities.
The ABCs of ABA: This 2-day introductory weekend workshop teaches the basics of applied behavior analysis and is offered throughout the year at no cost to families. There is a small fee for interested professionals. The ABCs of ABA is required for families prior to enrollment in the GIFT of Hope and CARE programs.
HUGS Meetings: Interested parents are also invited to take part in our Hope United Group Support (HUGS) meetings. These informal gatherings address topics of interest to families of children with autism and also include family-friendly activities in the community.