Center for Autism and Related Disorders (C.A.R.D.) 

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 (C.A.R.D.) 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 C.A.R.D. 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. C.A.R.D. had just come to town and was anxious 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 the way 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 C.A.R.D. observes the child and in what setting, the mom answered, “Oh, they will go to the classroom at school, social events, in their office, and at the house. “

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 re-direct the negative behaviors. I am learning a lot of new skills.”

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

For more information, go to the C.A.R.D website http://centerforautism.com/ or the website for the Coastal Bend Area.

You can contact them at 361-881-4788 or visit their office at 1231 Agnes St., Suite A10, Corpus Christi, TX 78401.

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