Proven Solutions. Experts Who Care.
Foundations Autism Center specializes in improving the lives of children diagnosed with Autism and related conditions.
Our focus is on early intervention, with a goal of establishing foundational skills that can help the child throughout their life. Specializing in supports to children ages 2 to 12, we provide individuals with autism the opportunity to learn, socialize, grow, and have fun.
We use evidenced-based Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy to increase socially significant behavior and are committed to making a positive impact in the lives of the children we serve and their families.
What is Applied Behavior Analysis Therapy?
Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) is a data-driven therapy which uses scientifically proven learning techniques to change behaviors. ABA therapists collect data to measure which learning techniques are working best for each individual child. ABA is widely accepted as highly effective in teaching complex skills to children with autism and related conditions. Foundations uses multiple therapeutic approaches such as Discrete Trial Training (DTT), Natural Environment Training (NET), Picture Exchange Communication System (PECS), Pivotal Response Training (PRT), and Social Stories. Each approach is unique and specific in providing treatment to children.
Our goal is to create an Individual Treatment plan that reflects your family and child’s specific needs while building on the unique abilities of your child. Our process starts with understanding the strengths and needs of the child and work to identify skills that are functional, significant, and meaningful. ABA therapy can assist with increasing communication, as well as improving attention, social skills, academic related skills and more. Parent involvement is highly encouraged to assist the child in maintaining skills learned in all environments.
During our center-based therapy sessions, children are immersed in a structured, stimulating, and playful environment designed specifically for learners with autism. Each child works individually with a behavioral technician, under the supervision of a Board Certified Behavior Analyst.
What Does Therapy Look Like?
Therapy sessions at Foundations often look and sound like typical childhood play, filled with wonder, growth, and fun! While encouraging curiosity, we make sure that every child learns critical skills, including:
- Communication and cognitive development
- Social and emotional skills
- Adaptive and functional living skills
- Gross and fine motor skills
- Reciprocal play and shared engagement
- Personal hygiene and self-care
Commonly Asked Questions
We know just how uncharted this journey may feel for your family, and we would like to help clarify as much as possible. Here are a few of our most asked questions:
We know how complicated navigating the world of insurance coverage can be.
Our goal is to help you review your insurance plan to determine if Applied Behavior Analysis services are covered. Our primary work is with the MN Department of Human Services Early Intensive Developmental and Behavioral Intervention (EIDBI) benefit. This benefit is available to any child covered by MN Medical Assistance (Medicaid). We are also currently in-network with BCBSMN and Health Partners. If you have insurance coverage through another plan, please reach out to us to discuss options.
This is determined by the Comprehensive Multidisciplinary Evaluation (CMDE). This evaluation determines medical necessity as well as the areas that your child would benefit from ABA therapy. It establishes the approximate number of hours of treatment the clinical team believes your child would benefit from.
Each child admitted to Foundations is assigned to a specific team. This team has several Behavior Technicians assigned to it, as well as Lead Behavior Technicians who assure program integrity and provide assistance with various training aspects of the session. This team of staff are the primary Behavior Technicians who will work with your child in blocks of time ranging from 15 minutes to two hours throughout the day.
Our staff members receive 40 hours of Registered Behavior Technician training during their initial orientation. Additional training areas within the first 6 months of their employment include Multicultural Training, Mandated Reporting, Vulnerable Adults/Maltreatment of Minors, Workplace Safety/Harassment Protection, Workplace Safety – Active Shooter Preparedness, Back Injury Protection, Slips/Trips/Falls Prevention, COVID-19 Awareness, Personal Protective Equipment, Tuberculosis Awareness, Blood-borne Pathogens, and HIPAA Certification. The safety of your child is our top priority. We abide by all Minnesota Department of Human Services requirements to background study all members of our team.
Yes, the Minnesota Department of Human Services (DHS) requires background studies for people who work in certain health and human services programs. Background studies are completed prior to staff having direct contact with any child we serve.
Getting Started.
Start connecting with our trained professionals, dedicated to creating solid foundations for your child and family.
