Who We Help

Autism Spectrum Disorder

In every child diagnosed on this spectrum is found an individual personality, bound by a strong motivation to protect the self, yet yearning to join the world and have the relationships which make life worthwhile for all of us. If we, the professionals, took the trouble to really find this person beneath the sensori-motor, and emotional-relational developmental delay, we discover their beauty, and their understanding of the world. Once we have the trust of this child and meet each other at a joining point, we move forward together with mutual respect and validation of each other.

While we always believed, and continue to believe, that Alec has unlimited potential, it still amazes us to see his progression into this fabulous, loving, smart young man. Every day he does something to make us proud. Both of you, as well as others at Total Approach, helped so much with his growth. You also taught us how to be better parents to a child with special needs. We are forever grateful to you. Thank you.

Marla

What we know and believe

Assume Intelligence
Not the diagnosis, but the profile matters
The brain is neuro-plastic and able to change at any age
Intervention program follows natural developmental trajectory
It is not about extinguishing behaviors, but changing what causes the behavior to create function and lasting change
Forming of relationships is essential to develop theory of mind
Intrinsic motivation is key to gain necessary skills
Play is the child's main occupation through which we learn all we need to become ready for the rigors of learning and growing up
Working on concepts of sequencing and time is essential for effective school and life adaptation
It is about the process and not the product