How to Use Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) at Home

Smiling speech therapist working with little boy at table in autism treatment center

At Solstice Behavioral Health & Consulting in Shelton, CT, families throughout New Haven County often seek practical strategies to support their child’s communication at home. Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) includes tools and strategies that help individuals express themselves when spoken language is limited or developing. AAC may involve picture exchange systems, communication boards, speech-generating […]

Functional Behavior Assessments (FBA) for Behavioral Challenges

African American school psychologist conducting psychological assessment of a boy, child therapy

When a child displays ongoing behavioral challenges, it can be overwhelming for families and educators to determine why those behaviors are occurring. Behaviors such as aggression, tantrums, refusal, self-injury, or withdrawal often serve a purpose, even if that purpose is not immediately clear. A Functional Behavior Assessment (FBA) is a structured process designed to identify […]

Behavioral and Functional Assessments for Autism Diagnosis

Pensive child talking to psychologist about thoughts and feelings

Accurate diagnosis is the foundation of effective autism support. Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) presents differently in every child, with variations in communication, social interaction, sensory processing, and behavior. Because of this variability, no single observation or screening tool can provide a complete picture. At Solstice Behavioral Health & Consulting in Shelton, CT, families across New […]

The Future of Autism Therapy: New Innovations and Treatments

Boy, headphones and doctor or tablet for stress test, autism diagnosis and sensory overwhelmed.

Autism therapy has evolved significantly over the past several decades, moving from generalized behavioral models to more individualized, developmentally informed approaches. As research expands, so does the understanding that autism spectrum disorder (ASD) presents differently in every individual. This growing awareness has fueled innovation in assessment methods, treatment delivery, and therapeutic tools. At Solstice Behavioral […]

The Benefits of Social Skills Groups for Kids with Autism

Group of special students in classroom, a down syndrome girl, two handicapped boys and cute Asian teacher

Children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) often experience differences in communication, emotional regulation, and social interaction. These differences may affect how they initiate conversations, interpret nonverbal cues, share interests, or respond to peers in group settings. While every child with autism has unique strengths and needs, many benefit from structured opportunities to practice social engagement […]

How to Encourage Communication in Children with Autism

Young female school psychologist having serious conversation with smart little boy

At Solstice Behavioral Health & Consulting, located in Shelton, CT, we proudly serve families throughout New Haven County, including Milford, Shelton, Trumbull, Stratford, Fairfield, Easton, Monroe, Derby, Ansonia, Seymour, Weston, Westport, and Wilton. Communication difficulties are a core characteristic of autism spectrum disorder, and they can manifest in various ways, from limited verbal speech to […]

What Is Play-Based ABA Therapy, and How Does It Work?

Male psychologist working with little boy in office. Autism concept

At Solstice Behavioral Health & Consulting, located in Shelton, CT, we proudly serve families throughout New Haven County, including Milford, Shelton, Trumbull, Stratford, Fairfield, Easton, Monroe, Derby, Ansonia, Seymour, Weston, Westport, and Wilton. Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy has long been recognized as an effective approach for children with autism spectrum disorder, focusing on teaching […]

10 Things I Wish I Knew Before I Started My ABA Career

If you’re diving into the world of Applied Behavior Analysis, get ready, it’s a ride full of growth, grit, heart, and some seriously joyful moments. Looking back, here are the 10 things I wish someone had told me before I jumped in. Consider this your friendly, keep‑it‑real guide from someone who has walked the walk and […]

The Impact of Screen Time on Children with Autism

teenage asian skateboarder boy looking at cellphone while resting

At Solstice Behavioral Health & Consulting, located in Shelton, CT, we proudly serve families throughout New Haven County, including Milford, Shelton, Trumbull, Stratford, Fairfield, Easton, Monroe, Derby, Ansonia, Seymour, Weston, Westport, and Wilton. In today’s technology-driven world, screen time has become an unavoidable aspect of childhood, but its impact on children with autism requires special […]

How to Handle Tantrums vs. Meltdowns in Children with Autism

Angry Asian cute girl screaming after her mother take a tablet away

At Solstice Behavioral Health & Consulting, located in Shelton, CT, we proudly serve families throughout New Haven County, including Milford, Shelton, Trumbull, Stratford, Fairfield, Easton, Monroe, Derby, Ansonia, Seymour, Weston, Westport, and Wilton. Parents of children on the autism spectrum often encounter intense emotional outbursts, which can be confusing and overwhelming. Differentiating between tantrums and […]