Inclusive Playground at Zorinsky Lake Park: A Game Changer for Omaha Families

New Autism Services in Omaha: A Lifeline for Local Families

Update Expanding Access to Autism Services: A Vital Step for Omaha Families For many families in Omaha and its surrounding suburbs, securing quality autism services has become increasingly challenging, especially in the wake of recent Medicaid cuts. These reductions have left parents anxious and uncertain about the availability of crucial Applied Behavioral Analysis (ABA) therapies. As stories of families struggling to find resources come to the forefront, one clinic is taking notable steps to bridge this gap. A New Hope in West Omaha Accel Therapies is breaking ground in West Omaha, opening its first Nebraska location to provide essential services for young children diagnosed with autism. Designed like a preschool, this facility aims to cater to children ages 18 months to 8 years, hoping to serve up to 60 students. Clinical Director Lacey Smithers emphasizes the importance of having a local option that not only reduces travel time for families but also offers wide-ranging support as they navigate the complexities of autism diagnoses. The Reality of Medicaid Cuts Recently, parents in Nebraska have faced a stark reality as Medicaid rates for autism services have decreased by up to 48%. Taisa Brumagen, a mother of a child recently diagnosed with autism, shared her fears about service availability, stating, “As parents coming into this with a new autism diagnosis, there’s not going to be services available. That’s really scary.” This illustrates how Medicaid cuts dramatically impact families, particularly those who reside outside Omaha’s urban core. Understanding the Need for Accessibility Prior to the opening of Accel Therapies’ new clinic, families had to travel significant distances—sometimes driving over an hour—to access the necessary care for their children. Smithers pointed out that the demand for support in rural areas was apparent, with families like those in Fremont being underserved. By providing closer access, this clinic is not only minimizing travel burdens but also addressing significant emotional and logistical challenges faced by Omaha parents. Innovative Approaches to Autism Therapy Apart from shorter commutes, what sets Accel Therapies apart are its unique offerings, such as “Accel Villages.” These environments simulate real-life settings, including a barbershop or grocery store, where children can practice essential life skills in context. Smithers remarks, “Success means independence. It does not mean taking the autism away.” The clinic prioritizes not only therapy but also improving autonomy and daily living skills for children with autism. Emphasizing Community and Diversity The new clinic is also making strides to ensure inclusivity, with a focus on hiring bilingual providers to reach diverse families. This commitment to serving various backgrounds reflects the clinic's understanding that autism knows no boundaries, and families from all walks of life deserve access to quality resources. Accel Therapies aims to be a cornerstone in supporting a broader array of families in the Omaha community. The Future of Autism Services in Omaha The expansion of services through providers like Accel Therapies signals hope for many Omaha families. With ABA therapy strongly associated with improved outcomes for children with autism, the need for accessible, quality therapies cannot be overstated. As the state grapples with refunding and restructuring Medicaid provisions, those priorities must remain at the forefront. As more families settle in Omaha, it becomes increasingly essential for communities to support one another and ensure all children have opportunities to thrive regardless of the economic or social challenges that may arise. Take Action: Support Local Autism Services To foster a community where all families have access to vital autism services, consider supporting local initiatives or advocating for policies that prioritize healthcare accessibility. Your voice can help ensure that families no longer feel isolated in their journey. Together, we can build a more supportive Omaha for all children.