360 Behavioral Health recently opened one of its newest locations in Madera, offering services designed to help children and their families navigate Autism Spectrum Disorder and related conditions.
According to the CDC, about 1 in 31 kids in the U.S. are living with Autism Spectrum Disorder. For many families, the diagnosis can come with daily challenges tied to behavior, communication and social interaction.
"In some families, they're dealing with challenging behaviors, like tantrums and aggression. It's about making sure they have those tools and resources," said Marina Bautista, director of clinical services in Madera.
For children with autism, interacting and communicating with others can be difficult. 360 Behavioral Health works with families by helping children build lifelong skills through Applied Behavioral Analysis, or ABA, therapy.
"ABA Therapy is a science-based practice. It's also evidence based research that goes into it that implements different principles. We focus a lot on positive reinforcement and structured support to build those skills," Bautista said.
At the Madera location, children participate in structured activities using toys and equipment designed to encourage play while teaching them how to engage with others their age.
"We do play-based therapy. A big thing about ABA is making sure we provide compassionate care to individuals, making sure they're having fun while they're learning," Bautista said.
The facility also includes one-on-one rooms that children can use if the larger space becomes overstimulating. 360 Behavioral Health supports children as young as two years old up to age 18, while also providing services for children diagnosed with ADHD.
Rene Cano, director of clinical services in Fresno, said the organization also works with adults.
"We're able to go into the community and help them with adaptive skills, life skills," Cano said.
360 Behavioral Health opened its Madera location in March. Cano said the Fresno clinic welcomed families in January 2024 and is currently expanding.
"The Central Valley needs more service providers. There's a high waitlist," Cano said.
The organization says it plans to open additional locations in Merced and Visalia.
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