Supporting Families and Professionals in Northern California and Vermont

​​WELCOME TO AAI​

Where we are dedicated to raising awareness and the understanding of autism, as well as advocating for the rights and needs of autistic individuals.

Autism is a neurodevelopmental variance that may affect the way an individual communicates and interacts with others, as well as how they process sensory information. It is a spectrum, meaning that the severity and specific symptoms can vary widely among individuals. 

At AAI, we know that every autistic, like all people, have unique strengths and abilities.  We are committed to supporting everyone in reaching their full potential. We provide a range of resources and strategies to support autistic individuals and their families navigate their goals.  Our foundation is focused on listening, partnering, and playful/natural engagement with the child/teen rather than on compliance training.  

We also advocate for the rights of autistic individuals, and work to raise awareness about the importance of support, inclusion, and acceptance for all. We believe that with the right support and opportunities, all humans can lead fulfilling and meaningful lives.

Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) is a widely recognized and evidence-based approach to supporting autistic individuals and others with related or unrelated developmental disabilities. It involves using one's own motivation to encourage the teaching of new skills. This is done through structured and systematic methods as well as lots and lots of play.

AAI embraces the concept of neurodiversity, acknowledging the diversity of the human brain, and the unique ways in which we function. We promote the acceptance and appreciation of differences in neurological wiring,  recognizing that these differences should be celebrated and respected, rather than quickly pathologized or socially stigmatized.

Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) and the neurodiversity paradigm complement each other in assisting autistic individuals by offering practical, tailored strategies to address specific challenges and goals, while simultaneously acknowledging and appreciating the distinct strengths and differences of each person. Recognizing the individuality of each person, with their unique strengths, needs, and aspirations, is crucial, because a one-size-fits-all approach is unethical and proves insufficient.

Integrating ABA principles and a neurodiversity-oriented perspective allows for the design of well-rounded support for autistic individuals in a manner that genuinely respects and honors their uniqueness. However, it is important to note that some individuals express concerns about the neurodiversity movement, fearing it may diminish the medical recognition of autism and potentially jeopardize insurance funding for research and intervention services.

Thank you for visiting our website and joining us in our mission to support and empower everyone who joins our team.

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