Center for Autism and Related Disorders (CARD) 

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Your child has been diagnosed with autism. You’re overwhelmed with trying to understand their behaviors. Where do you turn?

The Center for Autism and Related Disorders (CARDⓇ) is a worldwide organization that uses applied behavior analysis (ABA) for autism spectrum disorder. They work with each person on an individual basis depending on the person’s needs.

The following is an interview with one local mom whose 15-year-old is receiving services through CARD in Corpus Christi:

“I was at the point where I did not think anything was going to help my daughter, who is on the autism spectrum, with her behavior. CARD had just come to town and was eager to help.”

“The process to get services is simple. First, they meet with the parents and discuss the child’s behavior and what the parents would like to see improved. Then they meet with the child to observe how they behave or speak. They then make a plan with the goals to work toward. The therapists meet with the child several times a month to work with them and watch their progress.”

When asked how CARD observes the child and in what setting, the mom answered, “They will go to the classroom, social events, their office and the home.”

When discussing the goals for her daughter and if they were in reach for her, her response was hopeful. “They are working with her on her tone of voice and pitch, her personal hygiene, cursing, conversation skills and finishing what she has started while doing tasks at home and school. They also give us training as her parents to encourage positive behaviors and redirect the negative behaviors. I am learning a lot of new skills.”

At the moment, CARD serves only children ages 3 to 15 in the Corpus Christi area. Adult services are planned for the future and are available at other CARD locations throughout Texas.

Some financial assistance for the program may be funded through the Texas Workforce Commission (TWC). Call 1-800-937-2372 for more information or visit the CARD website at https://centerforautism.com.

You can also contact the Corpus Christi office at 361-881-4788 or visit their office at 410 South Padre Island, Suite 103, Corpus Christi, TX 78405.

Here is more information on therapy options for children with disabilities.

For additional services, use our Find Services, Groups and Events tool on this website.