Autism Spectrum Disorder in Teenagers: An Inclusive PHP/IOP Approach
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At ROWI, we are dedicated to providing comprehensive and compassionate care to all our clients, including those with a co-occurring Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) diagnosis. Our approach is rooted in inclusivity, understanding, and individualized support. We believe in treating each adolescent with autism with the respect and acceptance they deserve, recognizing their unique strengths and challenges. Our goal is to create a supportive environment that fosters growth and empowers them to thrive.
- ROWI is more than just a name; it represents the core principles that guide our approach to supporting adolescents with Autism.
- Respect: Respect is at the heart of our interactions, as we approach each teen with unconditional love and a commitment to understanding their needs.
- Observation: Through keen observation, we tailor interventions and strategies based on their behaviors, communication, and preferences.
- Whole-Hearted Acceptance: We embrace each teen for who they are while focusing on progress without pressuring them to change fundamentally.
- Individualized Approach: Understanding that Autism is a spectrum disorder, we collaborate with therapists, family, and specialists to develop tailored interventions and plans.
Therapeutic Community for Autism Spectrum Disorder
In our inclusive PHP and IOP programs, adolescents from diverse backgrounds come together, providing ample opportunities for co-regulation and modeling from neurotypical peers. This therapeutic community enables clients to learn from one another, receive feedback, and enhance their social skills knowledge and awareness.
Social Skills for Autism Spectrum Disorder
The lack of social skills has been directly linked to high levels of social anxiety, depression and other mood disorders. Often this distress leads to withdrawal and avoidance of social situations altogether, making social situations even more stressful. This cycle can escalate.
Teens with ASD do not need to live with the fear and anxiety of social situations. ROWI® offers treatment options, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and social skills training for teens experiencing social anxiety. Through awareness, assessment and treatment, ROWI® can help begin to lift the cloud of fear that envelopes and isolates too many teens struggling with ASD.
We are proud to offer PEERS® Social Skills Training, an evidence-based curriculum developed at UCLA specifically for adolescents with ASD, attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), anxiety, depression, and other socio-emotional challenges. Our staff members are trained in this renowned program, ensuring that teens receive expert guidance to enhance their social skills. PHP clients participate in PEERS® group therapy 2-3 times weekly and IOP clients participate in PEERS® group therapy once weekly.
Your teen will be able to make friends and keep friends as we teach them social and life skills, including:
- How to use appropriate conversational skills
- How to appropriately use electronic forms of communication
- How to handle rejection, teasing, bullying, rumors/gossip, and cyber bullying
- How to start, enter and exit conversations between peers
- How to choose appropriate friends
- How to appropriately use humor and assess humor feedback
- How to organize successful get-togethers with friends
- How to handle arguments and disagreements with friends and in relationships
Positive Reinforcement for Autism Spectrum Disorder
Our innovative ROWI ROCKSTAR reinforcement system employs a “token economy” to reinforce positive behavior within group settings. By identifying unique motivators for each teen, we celebrate appropriate behavior and encourage growth.
Parent Support for Autism Spectrum Disorder
We understand that supporting teens with autism extends beyond the individual, which is why we offer comprehensive parent support. Our belief is that when parents receive the support they need, they can better care for their teens in the most effective and loving way possible.
Family Therapy
Our family therapy helps create attainable systems that benefit both the family and the client, fostering a harmonious home environment. We also understand that having a child diagnosed with a developmental disability can lead to feelings of grief and loss. Family therapy can support parents and siblings to process their own emotions in order to decrease the tension in the home setting.
Parent Support Groups
Parent Support Groups at ROWI offer a safe and nurturing space for parents to share experiences, gain insights, and support one another. Led by skilled family therapists, these sessions foster a sense of community, providing valuable resources to navigate the joys and challenges of raising an adolescent with autism.
We strive to provide exceptional care and recognize the importance of ensuring that our services align with your teen’s needs. Please contact Admissions to collaboratively determine if the support ROWI offers will be the best fit for your adolescent.