Autism F.I.R.S.T.

09/28/2025

09/26/2025

Hi parents 👋 If you’re looking for ways to help your child practice making friends and building social confidence, Autism F.I.R.S.T. in Chantilly is launching a Social Skills Group for Grades 1–5.

Small group size (max 8), weekly sessions on Tuesdays at 4:30 PM. We only need 3 more children to start this group!

More info & registration: autismfirstus.com/services/social-skills-groups

09/24/2025

🌟Employee Spotlight: Meet Stevie T.! 🌟

We are honored to spotlight Stevie T., a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) who joined Autism F.I.R.S.T. in September 2025—and is already leaving a lasting impact.

With over 15 years in special education, 8 in ABA, and 4 as a BCBA, Stevie brings not just experience—but lived insight as an autistic and neurodiverse clinician. Her mission? To help shape the future of ABA into a field that is neurodiversity-affirming and rooted in compassionate care. 💙

💬 “Autism F.I.R.S.T. is the first company I’ve worked for that has a neurodiverse-affirming mission—and it helps me feel at home.”

Stevie believes in presuming competence, asking for help, and choosing compassion over compliance. Her favorite approach is Happy, Relaxed, and Engaged (HRE)—and she builds connection through shared interests and genuine presence.

Outside of work, Stevie is a proud plant mom (with over 75 houseplants!) and the beloved human of three rescued cats. Her unwind time? Cuddles, cats, and a good show. 🐾🌿📺

💬 “Celebrating the growth of clients, families, and staff alike is what fills my cup. We’re all in this together—and I love helping others grow in confidence and connection.” -Stevie T.

We’re so grateful for Stevie’s wisdom, joy, and advocacy. Her presence is helping build the future of ABA—one rooted in understanding, authenticity, and hope.

09/24/2025

At Autism F.I.R.S.T., we remain focused on high-quality, evidence-based treatment. ABA—supported by decades of research—helps children build meaningful skills and reduce barriers to daily life. We’re here for families with clarity, compassion, and best-practice care.

09/23/2025

Virginia parents of toddlers and preschoolers — this one’s for you! 🌟

Join Autism F.I.R.S.T.’s Virtual Day Program Informational Open House on Oct 1, 2025.

📅 Choose your session: 12 PM or 7 PM
📍 Online via Microsoft Teams
👧 For children ages 2–6

Learn how our Steps Ahead Day Program builds early social, emotional, and learning foundations across all AF locations.

👉 Spots are limited — Save your spot today: autismfirstus.com/open-house

09/23/2025

To celebrate the beginning of the season, our team and clients joined in a fun activity: wearing our favorite sweaters and fall outfits. 💙 Moments like these remind us that connection, joy, and togetherness are just as important as the skills we build every day.

Here’s to a season of growth and cozy memories! 🌟

09/22/2025

Parents and professionals agree: the early years matter most.

Autism F.I.R.S.T. is hosting a Virtual Open House on Oct. 1st to share how our Steps Ahead Day Program helps children ages 2–6 build strong foundations through early intervention and play-based learning.

✅ Learn about program structure
✅ Meet our dedicated team
✅ Get your questions answered

📅 Oct. 1 | 💻 Online | Free
Reserve your spot: autismfirstus.com/open-house

09/19/2025

🌟 Early intervention makes all the difference. 🌟
Join us at our Virtual Open House on Oct. 1st to learn how the F.I.R.S.T. Steps Ahead Day Program supports children ages 2–6 with autism through play-based learning, structure, and support.

📅 Date: Oct. 1, 2025
📍 Online | Free to attend
💡 Perfect for parents seeking early intervention options

👉 Reserve your spot today: autismfirstus.com/open-house

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09/16/2025

🎉 Big news! Autism F.I.R.S.T. is hosting a Day Program Informational Open House on October 1.

📅 Choose your session: 12:00 PM or 7:00 PM
📍 Online via Microsoft Teams

Learn how our Steps Ahead Day Program supports children ages 2–6 across all Autism FIRST locations.

👉 Spots are limited — Save yours today by scanning the QR code.

09/10/2025

Employee Spotlight: Meet Glenda G.!

Say hello to Glenda G., our incredible Lead RBT at Autism F.I.R.S.T., who’s been making a meaningful impact in the field for nearly three years—with 11 months on our team and counting!

Glenda is driven by a deep passion for empowering neurodivergent children to develop social skills and form meaningful connections. Her favorite moments? Watching her clients find their voice and express their needs with confidence.

Her go-to strategy in sessions? Offering gentle verbal reminders to set clear expectations—creating a calm, supportive environment where children can thrive.

💬 “Think about the profound difference you can make in the lives of children with special needs by taking the time to understand and support their unique challenges.”

Outside of the clinic, Glenda unwinds through exercise, self-care, and playing soccer—a sport she’s loved since age 10! ⚽

Glenda, thank you for your compassion, trustworthiness, and the impactful work you do each day. We're lucky to have you on the team! 💙

08/26/2025

🌟 Employee Spotlight: Meet Riley B.! 🌟

We’re excited to introduce Riley B., our passionate Training Coordinator at Autism F.I.R.S.T.! With three years in the field and over a year and a half on our team, Riley brings compassion, curiosity, and joy to every interaction.

Her favorite part of the job? Celebrating the small victories with families and seeing kids’ personalities shine. Riley uses an assent-based approach, prioritizing safety, trust, and collaboration so therapy feels empowering and engaging for every child.

💬 “As the Training Coordinator, I really love being able to share my love and passion for this field with those who are curious and new to ABA.”

Off the clock, you can find Riley enjoying a good volleyball match—either playing or cheering from the sidelines! 🏐

Thank you, Riley, for helping create a culture of growth, learning, and compassion at Autism F.I.R.S.T. 💙

08/24/2025

📍 Chantilly Clinic | Starting September 2
🗓 Tuesdays, 4:30–5:30 p.m. | 12-week group
👧👦 Ages 6–10

🤝 Learning together, growing together!
Our Social Skills Group gives children ages 6–10 the chance to practice communication, teamwork, and friendship in a fun, structured environment.

✨ Spots are limited (10 total). Secure your child’s place today!
🔗 Learn more: https://www.autismfirstus.com/services/social-skills-groups/