Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)

PPT provides personalized autism services to help children develop skills, enhance communication, and achieve greater independence.

Our Tools


Our multidisciplinary team utilizes a comprehensive range of therapeutic tools specifically selected to support children with autism. These interventions address communication, sensory processing, motor skills, and social development in engaging, evidence-based ways.

AAC
AAC
Aquatic Therapy
Aquatic Therapy
LSA Tennis Program
LSA Tennis Program
Orthotics Evaluations & Fittings
Orthotics Evaluations & Fittings
Therapeutic Vibration
Therapeutic Vibration

Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) includes tools, from picture boards to advanced devices, that aid children with speech and language difficulties in communicating effectively. This comprehensive approach helps children who have challenges with verbal communication express their needs, thoughts, and ideas through various technological and non-technological methods.

Aquatic Therapy is a skilled treatment method used by therapists to enhance your child's functional abilities. The warm, buoyant water enables your child to feel free and have fun in therapy, in a natural environment! The water's buoyancy reduces stress on joints and muscles while providing resistance for strength building, making it particularly beneficial for children with movement limitations.

Progressive Pediatric Therapy has partnered with Love Serving Autism to provide Speech, Occupational, Physical Therapy sessions while receiving Specialized Therapeutic Racquet Sports Instruction. This unique program offers instruction for all abilities, teaching communication, fine/gross motor skills, and life skills on the courts for goal of carry-over off the courts. Our Tennis Program helps works on social skills, motor coordination, and life skills like teamwork, listening, and respect.

Orthotics Evaluations & Fittings

Attend our clinics for expert orthotics evaluations and fittings, designed to improve mobility and ensure optimal comfort tailored to your needs. Children at PPT can attend monthly clinics for custom wheelchairs or orthotics, designed to enhance mobility and ensure proper postural alignment. These specialized devices support proper body alignment and improve functional mobility.

PPT uses cutting-edge tools like Galileo whole-body vibration platforms and Mano dumbbells to enhance therapy outcomes. Therapeutic vibration helps to optimize neuroplasticity, promote motor learning and decrease the complications of many childhood conditions that limit movement, sensory processing skills, and learning. A unique therapeutic intervention used to decrease muscle tightness, change habitual patterns of movement in a single joint, or improve range of motion.

Understanding an Autism Diagnosis


An autism diagnosis is part of a broader category known as Neurodevelopmental Differences. This simply means that your child’s brain processes information in a unique way, which can impact communication, social interactions, and daily routines. Rather than defining your child, this diagnosis helps highlight their strengths and areas where they may need extra support, guiding us toward the best approach for their development.

A woman is helping a young boy with a craft.

Hear From a Pediatric Therapist

Common Characteristics of Autistic Individuals


  • Communication and Language Differences

    The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 5th Edition (DSM-5) describes Autism as including differences in social communication and interaction. Individuals with Autism may communicate in various ways, such as using few or no words, repeating phrases (echolalia), or using unique expressions that others may not immediately understand. Non-verbal communication, like eye contact, facial expressions, and body language, can also be different, which is important to consider in social settings.

  • Social Interaction Styles

    Autistic individuals often connect with others in ways that may differ from typical expectations. They might prefer spending time alone, interacting with others less frequently, or engaging in unique ways, like repeating questions or focusing on specific interests. Some  people with autism might find it challenging to understand or express emotions in typical ways, and children might approach play differently, which can affect social skill development as they grow.

  • Repetitive Behaviors and Focused Interests

    Autistic individuals may engage in repetitive movements (like rocking or hand-flapping) or have deep interests in particular topics or activities. They might prefer predictable routines and feel distressed when there are unexpected changes. These repetitive behaviors often provide comfort, regulate emotions, or serve as a meaningful way to interact with their environment.

  • Motor Skills and Coordination

    Some autistic individuals may experience challenges with fine motor skills like holding a pencil, buttoning a shirt, or feeding themselves using utensils. Some may have challenges with gross motor skills, like kicking a ball, climbing on playground equipment, or maintaining their balance during play. Autstic individuals may have gross motor movements that appear awkward or clumsy.

  • Adaptability to Change

    Predictability can be very important for autistic individuals, and changes to routines or environments—like using a different door to leave a building—may cause discomfort or anxiety. Having familiar objects or following set routines often helps them feel secure and more at ease.

  • Learning and Cognitive Differences

    Cognitive abilities vary widely among autistic individuals. Some may have unique learning styles or take longer to find teaching methods that work best for them. It’s important to remember that each person with autism learns in their own way, and discovering the right approach may take time.

A young boy is sitting in front of a red suitcase.

How PPT Supports Your Child’s Autism Journey


At Progressive Pediatric Therapy, we offer a holistic, multi-disciplinary approach to support children with autism, honoring each child's unique strengths. Our experienced team of speech, occupational, and physical therapists collaborates to create a personalized care plan that focuses on both your child’s needs and family goals.

  • Exercise

    Tailored physical activities to enhance motor skills, strength, and coordination.

  • Therapeutic Listening

    A sensory-based therapy that helps improve focus, communication, and self-regulation.

  • Sensory-Based Tools

    Techniques to help manage sensory sensitivities and integrate sensory information more effectively. Learn More About our Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) resources.

  • Functional Behavior Assessment

    Understanding the "why" behind behaviors to create positive behavior support plans.

  • Reinforcement

    Using positive reinforcement to encourage progress and learning.

  • Social Stories

    Personalized stories to help children understand social situations and expectations.

  • Task Analysis

    Breaking down tasks into manageable steps to promote success in everyday activities.

  • Visual Supports

    Tools like visual schedules and cues to help with transitions, communication, and understanding

Supporting Your Child’s Development Every Step of the Way


We’re here to help your child grow, communicate, and thrive. Our compassionate team is ready to provide personalized support tailored to your child’s unique needs. Contact us today to learn how our autism therapy services can enhance your child’s skills and independence.