Autism and ABA Services

Autism and ABA Services is one of our key services at Easterseals UCP because the prevalence of Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) has continually increased since the 1960s and we are here to help individuals thrive.

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a lifelong, developmental disability that affects one in 59 children in the United States and one in 57 in North Carolina. As a spectrum disorder, individuals living with autism have a wide range of abilities and can experience challenges throughout their lives, particularly with social interactions and communication. However, with the right support, our trained and experienced team believes that individuals living with autism are able to lead fulfilling and meaningful lives.

We’ve turned the model around – instead of focusing on struggles, we focus on awesomeness! – Dr. Shanun Kunnavatana

The Easterseals UCP team focuses on an individual’s strengths (not challenges) to help reach their full potential at school, home, work and in the community. To accomplish this, we use Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), an approach that couples a scientific understanding of human behavior with teaching foundational skills. This progressive approach allows individuals to flourish through efficient and effective learning in their natural environment.

Dr. Shanun Kunnavatana, Senior Director of Autism and ABA Services

BCBA-D

Hear her powerful podcast conversations about Applied Behavior Analysis, Maximizing Independence and Challenging Behaviors

Our Autism and ABA Services team is led by Dr. Shanun Kunnavatana, a doctoral-level Board Certified Behavior Analyst with more than 20 years of experience working with individuals diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and other developmental disabilities. She also has extensive experience in mentoring and training candidates seeking board certification and is the current President-Elect for the North Carolina Association of Behavior Analysis.

Apply online to Join Our Autism Team