In-person autism therapy — even during the pandemic

When Denise Rocker’s 11-year-old son was diagnosed with autism in the middle of the coronavirus pandemic, she was faced with a new challenge — how to find help for him while everything was shut down.

The Cook Township woman, and Noah, didn’t think working on social interaction skills would be best done virtually, but rather in person. But it was a time last summer when much was unknown about the virus and little was happening outside of a computer screen.

“It was definitely worrisome and you want to do the right thing, no matter what that thing is,” she said.

They settled on Pressley Ridge’s intensive behavioral health services program and found it was a perfect fit, allaying Rocker’s concerns about Noah’s safety while being with others during an uncertain time.

“He absolutely loves the group,” she said.

The program is for those ages 6 to 18 on the autism spectrum. The group helps participants practice social skills through play and conversations during two-hour sessions. Kelly Weimer, director of autism services, said participants learn about tolerating others’ opinions, expressing their feelings and working together as a team.

“Everybody has individual goals that have been identified,” she said.

The group did switch to a virtual setting as the pandemic first took hold locally, but learned it’s much easier for those activities to be in person while practicing all the safety protocols to prevent the virus’s spread, she said. It likely was tough for families and parents like Rocker who have had to navigate such a diagnosis at an already difficult time.

But now, Rocker said she has seen great improvement in Noah’s ability to relate to his peers. He started with his group in Hempfield in October. She’s seen a big difference on the playground.

“He’s playing games with them, he’s engaged,” she said. “It’s just so emotional to see that.”

She encouraged other parents and families who have gotten a similar diagnosis in the past year to seek out help from agencies that are committed to the safety of participants.

“I understand hesitancy, but don’t put it off,” she said. “It’s definitely an organization that’s looking out for the safety of the kids.”