Our Research Units in Behavioral Intervention (RUBI) program is a parent training program developed to decrease challenging behaviors in children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD).

During each appointment, the therapist will review strategies that have been shown to help children with autism. The therapist and caregiver will then work together to find and individualize the strategies that are best for you and your child.

Personalized strategies will focus on:

• Preventing challenging behavior
• What to do when challenging behavior happens
• How to promote positive behaviors

Is the RUBI program right for me and my child?

RUBI is best for children whose caregivers can be actively involved in treatment and practice treatment between appointments. Prior to starting in the RUBI program, you will meet with an intake therapist to determine if RUBI is the right program for your family. 

How long are appointments?

Treatment usually includes 12 to 15 weekly appointments. The exact number of appointments will be tailored to your child’s progress.

• Each appointment is one-hour long
• Appointment times are between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m.

Who must be present during sessions?

The child and the caregiver must both be present during appointments, and the caregiver must be able to actively participate.

• The therapist will act as a coach, helping the caregiver discover what works best for the child.
• For the best results, the same caregiver(s) should come to every appointment.

What if we miss a visit?

Treatment will only work if caregivers can come to every appointment. Once your appointment time is set, it will be at the same day and time for the full treatment. We have a strict no-show and cancellation policy. Services will stop if the following occur:

• Two no-show appointments, meaning the caregiver does not show up and does not let us know
• Three cancellations (for any reason) during the admission
• Caregivers are unable to consistently complete data and practice treatment between appointments

How can I get started? 

To have your child evaluated by our team, you’ll need a doctor referral and to complete the steps to make a new patient appointment.

Questions

Email our team or call 404-785-9311 for more information.