Charleston Autism Academy

On this page you will find answers to commonly asked questions regarding our program.  For further information please contact us directly.

Q:  What is the primary business of Charleston Autism Academy?

A:  Charleston Autism Academy is a therapeutic clinical setting offering behavior therapy services, along with speech and occupational therapy services in the near future, to children with autism.  CAA is not a school.  CAA primarily serves children with autism who can benefit from an individualized intensive behavioral therapy program that addresses the needs and goals of the child and his/her family, as determined by a board certified behavior analyst. 

Q:  Where is Charleston Autism Academy located?

A:  CAA is located at 480-D Jessen Lane, Wando, S.C.

Q:  What are the operating hours of the program?

A:  Our hours vary with the needs of our clients. 

Q:  How can I visit the clinic?

A:  Contact Tara Ballard at 843-881-0330 to arrange a visit.      .

Q:  Is there a waiting list?

A:   There is a waiting list at this time, but you are welcome to call for information on having your child's name added to the list.  We will soon be expanding our services and would love to hear from you.

Q:  Is the program just for children for Autism?

A:  Yes.  CAA only serves children with a diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorder.  These children require staff members specially trained to address their areas of need.

Q:  What ages does CAA serve?

A:  CAA serves children aged 3-21 with Autism Spectrum Disorders.

Q:  What prerequisite skills does my child need?

A:  No prerequisite skills are required.  CAA will review each application and determine therapy goals based on the availability of the services that the application requires.

Q:  What is the child to therapist ratio?

A:  CAA provides a 1:1 or 1:2 child to therapist ratio depending on the specific goals and objectives of the child.

Q:  What are the most common overall therapy goals?

A:  Each child has a specific set of goals and objectives tailored to his or her areas of need.  These goals and objectives are determined based on a variety of assessment tools.  The goals and objectives typically address areas such as language development, social skills, and gross and fine motor skills.

Q:  How will these skills be presented for acquisition?

A:  CAA uses the principles of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) to therapeutically teach each child’s goals and objectives.  This is done through the implementation of Discrete Trial Training (DTT) sessions, Natural Environment Teaching (NET), and task analyses.

Q:  What is Verbal Behavior (VB) and how is it different from Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA)?
A:  Verbal Behavior is the analysis of language using ABA principles.  An ABA program incorporating verbal behavior strategies is enriched with language and communication opportunities for the learner.

Q: Is Charleston Autism Academy a residential facility?
A: No. Charleston Autism Academy is not a residential facility. 

Q: Do you provide transportation?
A: No. Charleston Autism Academy does not provide transportation to or from the clinic.

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