A Guide to Comprehensive Autism Care in California
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental difference that affects individuals in various ways, impacting social interactions, communication, and behavior. In recent years, the prevalence of autism has been on the rise globally, with California consistently reporting higher rates compared to other states in the US.
Autism Rates in California
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the prevalence of autism in the US is approximately 1 in 36 children. California, however, has reported higher rates; the CDC has estimated that 1 in 22 children in California has been diagnosed with autism.
Treatment Options: Medical Care from Expert Physicians
Medical professionals with expertise in neurodevelopment play a crucial role in providing autism care. Physicians and nurse practitioners who have completed specialized training in childhood brain development are uniquely qualified to manage the complex needs of children with autism. Medical professionals who are compassionate and responsive to a child’s unique needs can provide essential support and peace of mind for families navigating the care journey.
Cortica’s expert physicians in California include:
Cortica’s physicians are in-network for a wide range of health insurance plans, ensuring that California families have access to exceptional in-center, in-home, and online care. We accept a variety of PPO, POS, and EPO plans.
Treatment Options: In-Center and In-Home ABA Therapy
Applied behavior analysis (ABA) therapy is a widely recognized therapeutic approach to autism. High-quality ABA programs are tailored to the individual's needs, led by certified therapists, driven by evidence-based practices, and include regular progress assessments. Incorporating naturalistic teaching strategies can enhance engagement and relevance for the child. In California, families can access both in-center and in-home ABA services.
Treatment Options: Developmental Therapies
Speech-Language Therapy: Focuses on improving verbal and non-verbal communication skills. Therapists who have specialized expertise with autism can develop individualized and goal-oriented sessions that meet a child’s needs and are enjoyable.
Occupational Therapy: Targets life skills, sensory integration, and motor skills. Therapists who have specialized expertise in autism understand how to utilize therapeutic activities to improve independence and daily functioning.
Music Therapy: A valuable part of autism care, improving communication, social skills, and emotional regulation. Certified music therapists who have specialized expertise in autism can help children meet a wide range of communication, self-regulation, and other therapeutic goals.
Treatment Options: Mental Health Counseling and Family Wellness
Mental health services provide crucial support for children with autism as well as their caregivers, siblings, and other loved ones. Therapists who have specialized expertise in autism can provide emotional support, stress management strategies, and guidance to the entire family, all tailored to autism-related challenges.
Early Intervention for Children
Ensuring your child's developmental success involves considering various therapeutic interventions, particularly in the context of early intervention for infants and young children facing developmental delays. In the field of autism therapy, early intervention targets children before kindergarten during the most crucial developmental years, incorporating sensorimotor and communication therapies like occupational, physical, music, and speech-language therapy, along with Applied Behavioral Analysis (ABA) and developmental or relationship-based therapies.
Cortica’s Pre-K Readiness Early Intervention Program (PREP) is an intensive group therapy initiative for children aged 2 to 6 with autism, preparing them for mainstream kindergarten through activities fostering essential social, communication, cognitive, and motor skills.
Explore Comprehensive Therapy Centers in California
Cortica offers integrated, compassionate autism services in California, including medical care, ABA therapy, developmental therapies, and counseling. We have locations in:
No matter where you decide to access autism care in California, it’s important to ensure that your selected clinicians and services prioritize expertise in autism, evidence-based care, integrated therapies, and compatibility with your insurance plan to provide the best possible support for your child.
Citations:
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). (Year). Autism and Developmental Disabilities Monitoring (ADDM) Network - California. https://www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/autism/addm-community-report/california.html
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. "Data & Statistics on Autism Spectrum Disorder." CDC’s Autism and Developmental Disabilities Monitoring (ADDM) Network.
King MD, Bearman PS. Socioeconomic Status and the Increased Prevalence of Autism in California. Am Sociol Rev. 2011 Apr 1;76(2):320-346. doi: 10.1177/0003122411399389. PMID: 21547238; PMCID: PMC3086778.
Ng M, de Montigny JG, Ofner M, Do MT. Environmental factors associated with autism spectrum disorder: a scoping review for the years 2003-2013. Health Promot Chronic Dis Prev Can. 2017 Jan;37(1):1-23. doi: 10.24095/hpcdp.37.1.01. PMID: 28102992; PMCID: PMC5480297.
