For teens and young adults seeking ABA therapy, AZA United offers the Navigate program. This model is a specialized version of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), which is considered the gold standard for evidenced-based autism treatment. Designed for ages 13 to 21, this model focuses on support with daily living activities, community safety, and other skills that promote independence and involvement in the community. Skill-building activities take place both in the individual’s home and through a variety of community outings.
Program Highlights
- Available for ages 13 to 21 who are in school or have recently graduated and are likely to benefit from low-to-moderate levels of support
- Person-centered approach designed to help with moderate challenges in any domain of functioning (communication, socialization, challenging behaviors, self-help, etc.)
- Typical therapy schedule includes 5 days/week for a total of 10-15 hours
- Services take place in-home with community outings to other natural environments
Program Overview
The Navigate model is appropriate for teens and young adults who have mild to moderate deficits that impair their ability to live a meaningful, independent life. This program focuses on independent living skills, leisure skills, community skills and other skills needed for a high quality of life. This program will include trips into the community. Navigate also includes monthly parent coaching sessions to help family members maintain consistency and maximize progress.
The intended outcomes of the Navigate program include:
- Greater independence at home (health, hygiene, cleanliness, finances, basic needs, etc.)
- Greater participation in the community (safely engaging in everyday activities)
- Increased access to natural supports (people or resources chosen by the individual)
- Increased access to leisure activities (hobbies, events, personal interests, etc.)
- Improved quality of life (happiness and sense of self-worth)
Before starting services, our team of expert clinicians conducts an assessment to fully understand current skill levels and personal goals. A customized treatment plan is created that is unique to each individual’s needs and family preferences.
AZA’s Model of Care
The Navigate model uses a person-centered approach to achieving independence and community inclusion. The individual receiving services will have a lead role in determining treatment objectives. The primary areas of focus for the Navigate program are increasing independence, participating in meaningful activities, and developing interests and relationships in the community. In addition to teaching skills that foster community inclusion, individual preferences are used to help individuals explore their communities and attend social and community activities. Natural supports should accompany or complement formal supports and promote maximum independence and quality of life.
