What to Expect
The NDAC Difference
Pioneers in North Dakota
The North Dakota Autism Center, Inc. takes pride in its community. With a commonly used state motto of “North Dakota Strong,” we value our spirited society. However, our state did not always have opportunities for individuals with autism to receive the recommended therapy. We became the pioneers to bring Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy and Board Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBAs) into our great state. It wasn’t an easy accomplishment, but with our “North Dakota Strong” mentality, we worked with legislation to ensure BCBAs could practice and provide ABA therapy in the state.
Through this incredible journey, we have become the experts in fighting for client rights, attracting quality BCBA providers, collaborating with insurance providers, and providing supervision to many of the BCBAs in the Fargo Metro. Although not always easy, the path led to us becoming knowledgeable in all aspects of being a provider. Our continued perseverance to keep learning and remain a leader in the state has been a direct result of this journey.
Approach is Everything
The field of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), like many other scientific fields, has evolved since its infancy. We set ourselves apart from other providers by our persistence to grow, develop, and be frontrunners in the knowledge of the field and its application. It is our belief that ABA is a powerful field with the potential to help individuals grow and reach their goals without inflicting harm and/or trauma. We strive to be the company of choice for people who want to work together to set and reach goals.
Our approach is two-fold. First, we strive to work alongside individuals as they set and reach their own personal goals. We are partners with the individual and want their voice to be heard every step of the way. The individual will help lead all treatment decisions and approaches. Second, we evolve with the field and embrace the model of learning through creating joy. We work hard to create enriched environments and learning spaces to work alongside an individual and not above them. We practice self-awareness, transparency, accountability, and a commitment to protecting the rights and dignity of the people that we serve.
Our Teaching Atmosphere
Interactive Engaging Environment
We believe that learning takes place when an individual is engaged, calm, and having fun. Whether providing services in the home, clinic, community, or via telehealth, our goal is to provide an enriching environment that is motivating and engaging. Through intensive trainings, continuing education, and focused supervision, we strive to give our staff the skills and mentality needed to create an interactive engaging environment.
An enriching physical environment can be shaped in many ways. Our play room is set up with a variety of toys and play materials. The motor room is equipped with items such as trampolines and exercise balls. Our sensory areas include star lights, sensory materials, music, and other preferred items. Our social skill groups focus on teaching skills while engaged in interactive activities. We believe it is important to individualize certain areas with favorite items. Learning should ALWAYS be fun, and we accomplish this by teaching in an engaging environment.
Focus on Comprehensive Treatment
A quality ABA program will be comprehensive in both content and environment. We make every effort to reach your child where they need it the most, and ensure that goals are being met in an inclusive environment. Our comprehensive treatment is individualized for your child. The plan can include focus areas such as play, social skills, small or large group instruction, life skills, emotion regulation, conversation, and much more. The goals are worked on in a variety of different ways specific to your child. This may include working on a goal while playing at the park, conversing with peers, getting ready for school, or in the presence of something non-preferred. Your child’s day will be filled with a variety of teaching methodologies that are best suited and engaging for them.