OUR PHILOSOPHY

Autism is a neurodevelopmental difference characterized by difficulties with communication, motor control, sensory processing, and social interaction. The autistic brain has been found to develop connections differently which affects the way it processes and organizes information. These neurological differences affect the way an individual with autism moves, communicates, and interacts, which may limit independence, impair relationship-building, and often makes it difficult for them to fully demonstrate their competence. Optimal ACCESS is dedicated to supporting individuals with neurodevelopmental differences and allowing them to reach their highest potential.

OUR APPROACH

Neurologic Music Therapy (NMT)® is a research-based treatment approach, based in applied neuroscience. Our neurologic music therapists use music and rhythm to optimize the way the brain functions. While each neurodivergent person is unique and treatment is individualized, there are some common techniques that are making a tremendous difference for individuals who face significant struggles with the sensory and neuromotor differences, common in autism. For example, movement paired with rhythm can help develop new sensory and motor brain connections, which improves body awareness, coordination, and motor planning.

By addressing autism at the brain level, NMT can positively and respectfully support skills and abilities that allow for improved communication, academic access, meaningful relationships, and a true demonstration of a nonspeaking person’s agency.

OUR SUCCESS

One local nonspeaker spent his entire school career in special education and “life skills” classes. Assessments evaluated him to be functioning “below Pre-K level.” However, he was demonstrating in outside therapy that he was a fully competent and highly motivated young man. His true ability was unable to be accurately evaluated due to his motor differences and lack of speech.

• December 2013: He attended his own case conference to discuss his IEP. He communicated (through supported typing) that he, too, deserved a “free and appropriate education” and wanted to be in “regular classes”.

• January 2014: He earned A’s in Biology, English, and History.

- Unfortunately, despite his success, his public school placement was unable to provide a highly trained communication and regulation partner and the level of supports necessary for him to transition into a schedule of general ed classes and a diploma track.
- This student and his family sought out an alternative placement at ACCESS Academy.

He has since:

- Gone on to be recognized with the Excellence in Self Advocacy Award from the Autism Society of Indiana
- Participated in the Indiana Youth Leadership Forum, as the first nonspeaking student delegate selected.

He continues to:

- Write a blog focused on advocacy for nonspeaking students to have age-appropriate academic access, his faith, and desire to become a pastor.
- Develop curriculum to help churches become more prepared to welcome autistic individuals into their congregations.

IN THE NEWS