TILL's new Autism Initiative program provides an innovative approach to working with individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). Developed as an expansion of the TILL Central/Billerica program, we partnered with the Autism/Ladders Center to establish a highly specialized program for this population. Our shared expertise result in thorough, practical assessments and behaviorally based teaching plans suited to each individuals learning style.

• Consistency, structure, and close collaboration with clinicians and direct support professionals allows for interesting, varied activities often not available to this population due to behavioral and attention issues.
• Frequent interdisciplinary meetings with our behavioral, occupational, physical and speech therapists ensure consistent programming throughout all disciplines working in our program.
• TILL Behavioral Health Clinic, STRATTUS, directed by Sharon Kreder, PhD, offers neurofeedback, a form of biofeedback proven to be beneficial in treating symptoms associated with Autism Spectrum Disorder. This nonintrusive, noninvasive intervention viewed on a computer screen, allows participants a way to establish more effective neuropathways and reduce symptoms such as hyperactivity, anxiety, and sleep difficulties. Dr. Kreder is trained in neurofeedback techniques and is a credentialized psychologist.
• The Autism Initiative offers a well rounded schedule of daily activities with very structured consistent teaching methodologies directed at a population with autism. Sensory and therapeutic activities coupled with community interests such as working in a cable TV station, jobs with TILL entrepreneurial business; Candy Central, active participation with local farm projects, food shelters, and therapeutic horseback riding are just a few of the options available.

The Autism Initiative's professional staff participates in ongoing training to ensure that they remain current with techniques and information on ASD. In collaboration with TILL's Autism Resource Center and the LADDERS program, the direct support staff and clinicians form an excellent collaborative team dedicated to an individualized approach to working with participants.

For more information about our Day Habs and TILL Central program, contact Stella Reis at 781-302-4618 or stella.reis@tillinc.org.