LEARN Behavioral announces rebrand of Madison, WI Autism Services Center

LEARN Behavioral, a national leader in autism treatment with a nationwide network of ABA providers and Learning Centers across the country, announces the integration and rebrand of KGH Autism Services of Madison, WI.

KGH Autism Services is now known as the Wisconsin Early Autism Project (WEAP) Interdisciplinary Autism Services Learning Center, and maintains its location at 3113 W Beltline Hwy, Suite 300, Madison, WI 53713.

WEAP Interdisciplinary Autism Services Learning Center in Madison offers a learning-rich, supportive environment. Families can access individualized care from a compassionate team, including diagnostic evaluations, center-based and in-home ABA therapy, speech-language therapy, occupational therapy, mental health counseling, and youth club programs.

“We’re here to support children and families at every stage of their journey,” said Christine Laurent, BCBA, LBA, Regional Clinical Director. “We are excited to have the opportunity to partner with families throughout Dane County to help find success for every child in our care.”

“It has been a privilege to provide integrated autism care to the Madison community over the past 15 years,” said Sophie Kamps, Center Director. “We look forward to expanding the interdisciplinary model through our partnership with LEARN Behavioral and WEAP, and continuing to provide high-quality autism services for years to come.”

Key Features of the WEAP Interdisciplinary Autism Services Learning Center in Madison:

  • Experienced leadership brings resources and support to children and families with autism in the community.
  • Interdisciplinary services include diagnostic evaluations, speech-language therapy, occupational therapy, mental health counseling, and youth club programs.
  • ABA services, which include a learning-rich environment, unique play-based learning spaces, and one-on-one support.
  • No waitlist and flexible treatment hours to accommodate busy family schedules.
  • Serving children from early childhood through young adulthood with personalized therapy plans.
  • Conveniently located off US-14 and US-18 and easily accessible for families in the region.

WEAP is now enrolling new clients. For more information or to enroll a child at WEAP’s Interdisciplinary Autism Services Learning Center in Madison, call (608) 819-6810 or visit https://wiautism.com/locations/madison.

In addition to the Interdisciplinary Autism Services Learning Center in Madison, WEAP has center-based ABA therapy Learning Centers in Altoona, Brookfield, De Pere, Glendale, Green Bay, Janesville, Madison, Madison South, Menomonie, Milwaukee (Menomonee Falls),Mount Pleasant, Oak Creek, Oshkosh, Reedsburg, Sheboygan, Stevens Point, Sun Prairie, and West Bend. WEAP continues to expand and will open the doors of additional Learning Centers in Beloit and Greenfield in early 2026.

WEAP, a provider of LEARN Behavioral, is Wisconsin’s premiere contemporary applied behavior analysis (ABA) provider of center-based autism services for children. WEAP is a world-renowned leader in early diagnosis and treatment for children with autism. Their evidence-based approach to care has helped thousands of children with autism throughout Wisconsin over the past 30 years.

About LEARN Behavioral

LEARN Behavioral is a national leader in autism treatment, offering comprehensive diagnostic services and contemporary applied behavior analysis (ABA) therapy for children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). With a nationwide network of ABA providers and more than 100 Learning Centers across the country, LEARN delivers the highest standard of evidence-based care—customized to meet the unique needs and interests of each child and family. For more information, visit learnbehavioral.com.

SPARKS ABA Learning Center Now Open in Fairfax, VA

No Waitlist and Expanded Year-Round Services for Fairfax County Area Families

SPARKS ABA, a provider of LEARN Behavioral, has recently opened the doors of their new Learning Center at 3022 Williams Drive, Fairfax, VA 22031.

SPARKS ABA is Virginia’s premiere contemporary applied behavior analysis (ABA) provider of center-based autism services for children and adolescents ages 2-18 years. The Fairfax Learning Center provides center-based and in-home ABA therapy, diagnostic services, and speech and occupational therapy.

“We are thrilled to open our doors and bring compassionate, contemporary ABA therapy for children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) to families in Fairfax and the surrounding areas,” said Kayla Bagnato, Regional Clinical Director. “Through highly personalized support, we aim to empower each child and young adult to gain independence to succeed in school and life and reach their highest potential.”

The Fairfax Learning Center features an innovative Launchpad Learning Program, which focuses on children with autism ages 2 to 6 who are ready to transition from a one-on-one learning environment to a group setting to help prepare them for school. With Launchpad, half the day involves group activities with a 3:1 staff-child ratio, developing team skills and independence, and the other half of the day focuses on individual instruction, addressing personal growth areas.

Key Features of the Fairfax Learning Center:

  • ABA therapy, which includes a learning-rich environment, unique play-based learning spaces, and one-on-one support.
  • Diagnostic services and speech and occupational therapy provided on-site.
  • Launchpad Learning, a school readiness program for children aged 2 to 6.
  • No waitlist and flexible treatment hours that include after-school and evening hours to accommodate busy family schedules.
  • Serving children 2-18 years old with personalized therapy plans.
  • Conveniently located near I-495. Just 15 minutes away from Springfield and easily accessible via public transportation for families in the region.

About SPARKS ABA

SPARKS ABA, part of LEARN Behavioral, a national leader in compassionate autism treatment, has been a leading provider of evidence-based autism services for 15 years. SPARKS ABA is dedicated to personalized, high-quality ABA therapy. In addition to the Fairfax location, SPARKS ABA has Learning Centers in Manassas and Springfield, VA, and Landover and Waldorf, MD.

The Fairfax Learning Center is now enrolling new clients in Alexandria, Annandale, Arlington, Fairfax, Falls Church, Fort Belvoir, Manassas, and Springfield with no waitlist and flexible treatment hours.

For more information or to enroll a child, call (240) 222-7956 or visit https://www.sparksaba.com

About LEARN Behavioral

LEARN Behavioral is a national leader in autism treatment, offering comprehensive diagnostic services and contemporary applied behavior analysis (ABA) therapy for children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). With a nationwide network of ABA providers and more than 100 Learning Centers across the country, LEARN delivers the highest standard of evidence-based care—customized to meet the unique needs and interests of each child and family. For more information, visit learnbehavioral.com.

Unlocking Communication: The Story of PECS with Dr. Andy Bondy & Lori Frost

In this episode, we’re joined by Dr. Andy Bondy and his wife, Lori Frost, MS, CCC-SLP, who are the co-founders of Pyramid Educational Consultants, Inc. They’re also the creators of the Picture Exchange Communication System (PECS). Together, they share about the origins and updates of PECS, their work around the world, and the release of the 3rd Edition of the PECS Manual.

We explore the importance of everyday language when discussing effective teaching strategies, the power of collaborative teamwork, and the need for truly individualized support. Andy and Lori also provide a forward-looking perspective on the future of PECS and emphasize why embracing cross-cultural understanding is essential for effective communication.

Join us for this insightful conversation that offers evidence-based communication practices designed to empower parents, educators, and clinicians. 

View the transcript, show notes, and previous episodes at: https://www.allautismtalk.com/episodes/the-story-of-pecs

All Autism Talk is sponsored by LEARN Behavioral.

5 Benefits of Early Intervention for Autism

Discovering that your child has been diagnosed with autism can be an incredibly challenging and emotional experience for parents and caregivers. It can make you feel uncertain, overwhelmed, and worried about what to do next.

It’s important to know that early detection and intervention can not only make a significant difference in your child’s development — but also offer a sense of reassurance and ease for you as a parent.

What Is Early Intervention?

“Early intervention” for children with autism refers to the process of identifying and addressing developmental domains — including social, communication, and behavioral skills — as early as possible in a child’s life. It involves providing specialized support, therapies, and services designed to meet the unique needs of each child with autism.

The age range for early intervention is most effective when started as early as possible, ideally before the age of 3. Research has shown that the earlier a child with autism receives intervention, the better their outcomes are likely to be in terms of improved skills, reduced behaviors that interfere with development and learning, and overall quality of life.

The positive impact of early intervention for children with autism is undeniable. It paves the way for their growth and progress.

Here are five compelling reasons why embracing early intervention can put your mind at ease and set your child on a path toward fulfilling their potential:

1. Early Intervention Can Improve Your Child’s Socialization Skills

Children with autism often struggle with social interaction and communication, which can lead to isolation and difficulties in making friends. Early intervention can help children develop socialization skills by providing opportunities for them to interact with others in a structured and supportive environment. This can include teaching them how to initiate conversations, understand social cues, and form friendships.

2. Early Intervention Helps Improve Your Child’s Communication Skills

Many children with autism struggle with communication — whether it’s speaking, processing language, or using non-verbal cues. Early intervention through applied behavior analysis (ABA) can help children express themselves and better understand others, which can lead to improved socialization and overall quality of life.

3. Early Intervention Helps Your Child Learn Appropriate Behaviors

Sometimes life with autism can be challenging. There can be a fair share of meltdowns and tantrums. Early intervention through ABA addresses these often difficult moments and helps children learn appropriate behaviors and how to strengthen ways to learn and interact with others.

4. Early Intervention Sets Your Child Up for Academic Success

Children with autism can struggle academically, which can lead to frustration and low self-esteem. With the help of early intervention, though, children and families can prepare for future academic success. During early intervention, young learners develop social and communication skills that will benefit them not only in their daily lives but also in the classroom once they enroll in school.

5. Early Intervention Can Improve Family Dynamics

Autism can be challenging not just for the child, but for your entire family. Early intervention supports your family by providing resources and tools to help you better understand and support your child. It can also help reduce stress and improve overall family dynamics between you and your child, as well as your child and their siblings.

These are just a few of the many reasons why early intervention for kids with autism is beneficial. By starting treatment early, children with autism can develop the skills and abilities they need to lead fulfilling and successful lives.

Jocelyn Thompson, LCSW, BCBA, is the vice president of clinical services at LEARN Behavioral. During undergrad, she studied under the direction of Dr. Ivar Lovaas and completed an internship at the Lovaas Institute for Early Intervention. Jocelyn has worked with diverse populations as a behavior analyst and social worker for the past 15 years.

For more resources on early intervention, listen to our podcast episode featuring Dr. Geraldine Dawson, co-creator of the Early Start Denver Model, and read our blog on brain plasticity and early intervention written by Ronit Molko, Ph.D., BCBA-D and Dr. Evian Gordon, Chairman and CEO of Brain Resource.