$7M Applied Behavior Analysis Clinic for Autism Support opens in Norman
NORMAN, Okla. (KFOR) - The JD McCarty Center is putting on the finishing touches to their new Applied Behavior Analysis Clinic. It's a place to give those with Autism specialized care to help them thrive in life and in the community.
"The goal is to work ourselves out of a job," said Liz Moore, the director of ABA Services.
The final improvements are underway on the outside and inside of the new Norman facility at the JD McCarty Center, a hospital for children with disabilities.
This Friday is the grand opening of the 14,000 square-foot Applied Behavior Analysis Clinic.
"It's really just a fancy way of saying, 'I'm going to take a skill or a problem and I'm going to break it down into small teachable pieces,'" said Moore.
Moore said the focus here is helping people with Autism tackle simple but vital tasks. They help anyone from birth to adulthood.
"It can be as simple as play or as complicated as doing your laundry," said Moore.
Playrooms are set up to help children learn to play by themselves.
A mock apartment is also available to teach independent living.
"It's a way to teach individuals how to do their laundry, how to bathe, how to cook," said Moore. "We also have a bed to teach them how to make their bed."
In case there are any issues happening in school, the ABA Clinic has set up a classroom for role playing. They also have some learning spaces that are reinforced.
"Maybe they're trying to kick a hole in the wall there's reinforced walls," said Moore.
Of course, there is also a colorful indoor playground to help get the wiggles out safely.
"Eventually, there will be a trampoline. We have a basketball goal, we have a bike track. But really we anticipate kids riding bikes up and down the hallway," said Moore.
Darcie Whare, the deputy director, said they'll eventually be able to serve 30 patients with one-on-one care.
"We're providing an individualized approach and addressing the things that are most important to that family," said Whare.
Because, no matter how differently someone learns, everyone deserves a place to thrive.
"You don't' have to earn your way into the community, that is your right. We just need to put supports in place so that you're able to be successful doing that," said Moore.
The facility was paid for through nearly $7 million COVID-19 dollars, also known as ARPA funds. During COVID, many clinics and classes like this had to be shut down because of social distancing or going virtual.