How Our Program Works
Refer a Patient
Referring a patient? Access our clinician referral hub to submit a referral and get started.
Methodology
A deep dive into play-based ABA delivered with compassionate care.
Carnelian Learning Place uses an evidence-based early intervention approach designed specifically for toddlers and preschoolers with autism. Our approach blends developmental and learning principles within natural, play-based interactions that support meaningful social engagement and skill development.
Through structured activities and guided play, clinicians focus on core developmental targets that support a child’s ability to learn and connect with others. These targets include social communication, imitation, joint attention, symbolic play, and functional communication.
By building these foundational skills, children develop age-appropriate ways to interact, express needs,and participate in shared enjoyment.
Progress is supported through individualized goals, daily data collection, and ongoing clinical supervision to ensure each child’s program adapts to their learning needs. Families are also an important part of the process through weekly coaching sessions that help extend these strategies into everyday routines at home.
Who We Serve
Carnelian Learning Place serves children ages 18–60 months who have received an autism diagnosis and would benefit from intensive early intervention. Our program is designed for toddlers and preschoolers during a critical period for building communication, social engagement, and learning skills.
Many families first connect with us after noticing delayed speech, receiving a developmental screening recommendation, or following guidance from their pediatrician. Others come to Carnelian shortly after receiving a diagnosis and are looking for a structured program that provides consistent support for their child and family.
Program Eligibility
- Age Range
- Autism Diagnosis
- Early Intervention Fit
Common Entry Concerns
- Delayed speech
- Social engagement challenges
- Repetitive behaviors
- Pediatrician referral
HOW WE WORK
Onboarding Process
Referral
Families contact Carnelian Learning Place to determine a good fit for their child.
Insurance
Authorization
Our team works with your insurance provider to secure treatment authorization. Families to provide us with insurance information and diagnostic Documentation.
Schedule Assessment
Clinicians evaluate communication, play, and social learning skills.
Intake Interview
Parents meet with our team to discuss developmental history, concerns, and goals.
Skills Assessment and Functional Behavioral Assessment (FBA)
- Meeting with the child (and parents)
- Clinicians evaluate communication, play, and social learning skills.
- Determine behavior plans
Therapy Begins
Playing and learning together!
Session Types
We offer individual and small group sessions each day designed to support each child’s learning style and developmental needs.
Individual (1:1)
One-on-one sessions pair each child with a trained behavior therapist to focus on individualized learning goals through structured, play interactions.
Small Group (3:2)
Small group sessions focus on encouraging peer interaction, shared play, turn taking and following group routines.
Weekly Program Structure
We provide a structured program using a play-based, naturalistic ABA approach to support the child’s steady progress.
Schedules are adjusted to meet each child’s age, individual needs and pace of transition into the program.
Program Schedule
5 days per week
Morning: 8:30AM – 12:30PM
Afternoon: 1:00PM – 5:00PM
Weekly Therapy Hours
Each child’s schedule and weekly therapy hours are outlined in the treatment plan and based on how much support a child needs to learn new skills, and developmental domains
Make-Up Sessions
Saturday availability for missed sessions
Transition and Discharge
Discharge from Carnelian Learning Place occurs when a child has made meaningful progress toward key developmental goals and is prepared to continue learning in a larger group setting.
Communication Skills
Stronger communication skills to express needs and interact with others
Social Engagement
Consistent social engagement with peers and adults
Adaptive
Skills
Improved adaptive and learning skills for group environments
School Readiness
Readiness to participate in inclusive preschool or classroom settings
Start Your Child’s Early Learning Journey
Connect with our team to learn more about our program and how Carnelian Learning Place can support your child’s development.
Frequently Asked Questions
Answers to common questions about our program, enrollment process, and how we support children and families.
Our program is based on an evidence-based methodology that supports early development across communication, behavior, social, and cognitive skills. Each child’s plan is individualized, with a focus on building meaningful, functional abilities through consistent, structured support.
We work with young children who would benefit from early, intensive support across multiple areas of development. Eligibility is determined through an initial assessment, where we review your child’s needs, strengths, and goals to ensure the program is the right fit.
The onboarding process includes an initial consultation, assessment, and development of a personalized treatment plan. We also guide families through scheduling, goal setting, and preparing for the start of services so expectations are clear from the beginning.
That’s completely okay. Many families come to us with questions or uncertainty. During the intake process, we’ll walk you through your child’s developmental profile and help you understand whether this type of program would be beneficial.
The program includes a combination of one-on-one sessions, parent or caregiver involvement, and supervised support. Each session type is designed to reinforce skill development while ensuring consistency across environments.