Hennepin Autism Center

The ultimate goal of an ABA therapy center is to support children on the autism spectrum and those with related developmental disabilities, along with their families. It’s about helping all children thrive, especially those with communication challenges and other developmental delays.

Which is why the first time Steven tapped Abigail Evenson’s — BCBA at Hennepin Autism Center—shoulder and pointed to the toy at the desk was a profound moment for her. It was a simple gesture that signified a beautiful journey and remarkable growth. Just four years ago, he was nonverbal and struggled with behaviors like spitting, self-injury, aggression and running, overwhelming those around him.

Abigail and the team at Hennepin worked patiently to understand and decode Steven’s behaviors. They found that many of his challenges stemmed from a lack of communication skills, which left him unable to express basic needs or emotions. Using ABA therapy, they introduced replacement strategies to help him find alternative ways to interact with the world.

One of the first strategies was teaching Steven to tap someone’s shoulder to get attention instead of acting out. It was a small but meaningful first step. Slowly but steadily, he began forming sounds, words and eventually sentences.

“We tailor our care to meet the unique strengths and challenges of each child, knowing that given the right support, every child can grow, learn and reach their full potential,” says Sulieman Isse, CEO.

A child’s journey at Hennepin usually starts with a thorough diagnostic assessment. The process includes in-depth observations and evaluations to understand a child’s needs and preferences. Tools like the VB-MAPP assessment are used to test skills like communication, play, imitation and motor skills. These observations help identify strengths and areas requiring targeted intervention. After assessment, an adaptable treatment plan is tailored alongside parents, ensuring flexibility to the child’s evolving needs.

The therapy itself is dynamic and responsive. Each child has their own cubicle, designed to be both functional and personalized, reflecting their individuality. Daily schedules balance desk-based learning with sensory activities like play gym sessions, tactile explorations and fine motor skill exercises. By working in 15-minute increments, therapists maintain the child’s focus while accommodating their sensory needs. Rewards like fidget toys or edible treats are strategically used to motivate and reinforce positive behavior, always keeping the child’s well-being at the forefront.

The center places a strong emphasis on developing the learners’ communication skills. For nonverbal children like Steven, picture exchange systems, sign language or speech devices like augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) devices are introduced as alternative communication methods. Beyond reducing their frustration these tools also pave the way for verbal communication for the children, helping them break out of behaviors and grow as individuals.

Hennepin also offers higher-intensity services for clients with severe behavioral needs, requiring the support of two staff members. Each case is assessed based on documented evidence, with data-driven analysis to identify the root causes of the client’s behaviors. Based on the insights, tailored intervention plans are developed to guide staff in redirecting behaviors constructively.

“We are committed to bridging the disparities in care access across families and communities through additional resources like language support, transportation assistance and developmental guidance, ensuring each family receive the support they deserve,” says Evenson, Hennepin’s clinical director. “We take our responsibility seriously, knowing that families place their trust in us to provide the best possible care. Our highly trained staff undergo rigorous preparation to ensure they deliver the highest quality services, always focusing on each child’s progress and well-being.”

Team Hennepin elevates ABA therapy to a partnership between the learner and caretaker, as seen in many young learners like Steven. Through patience, empathy and support, the center empowers children, families and their communities to overcome challenges and embrace new beginnings.