Lighthouse Autism Center

Lighthouse Autism Center: children's ABA therapy with more than 40 locations across the Midwest

Lighthouse Autism Center is a center dedicated to children's autism that offers ABA (Applied Behavior Analysis) therapy in a play-based environment. The organization presents itself as the leading children's autism center in the Midwest and serves children ages 1 to 12, with flexible scheduling and acceptance of Medicaid and commercial insurance. Its corporate headquarters is located in Schaumburg, Illinois.

The center describes its clinical model as an evidence-based approach tailored to each child. The children it serves are called Lighthouse Learners and work one-on-one with a Registered Behavior Technician (RBT) on skills such as language and communication. Programs and progress are individualized and take place in imaginative spaces where children explore their interests and take part in sensory experiences.

Clinical and support services

Lighthouse Autism Center's offerings are organized into several areas of intervention:

• ABA Therapy: based on the principles and techniques of learning theory to increase or decrease certain behaviors. The center describes it as a scientifically validated approach that analyzes the function of the behavior and the environment in which it occurs.
• Diagnostic Testing: autism evaluations are offered at most locations. The center notes that the earlier children are diagnosed, the better their outcomes, and recommends an evaluation if a child is missing developmental milestones or showing signs of autism.
• Speech Support: each child benefits from a speech-language pathologist who collaborates with their BCBA and a team of RBTs on speech, language, and communication goals. This integration is part of the Lighthouse Fusion® model.
• School Readiness: learning programs in a center-based environment to develop social, communication, and self-help skills in a controlled setting designed to prepare the child for school.
• Social Skills Groups: aimed at autistic children who face challenges with communication, social interaction, emotional regulation, engagement, and connecting with peers who have similar interests. Offered at select locations.
• Parent Support: regular meetings between families and the clinical team to plan, review the child's progress, and adjust programming in real time.

Lighthouse Fusion® model and clinical approach

The center integrates speech support into ABA therapy through its Lighthouse Fusion® model, in which a speech-language pathologist collaborates with the BCBA and Registered Behavior Technicians. The approach is described as play-based and set in an environment designed for children to learn and practice new skills naturally. The organization also offers a Bridge Program within its service catalog.

Autism resources

Lighthouse Autism Center maintains a resources section covering information on autism spectrum disorder, early signs, diagnosis, caregiver tools, and insurance tips. It also includes autism therapy FAQs, a learning library, and a blog. The center states its commitment to providing community resources to help create autism-friendly environments.

History and expansion

The center's history dates back to 2004, when Gregg and Sandy Maggioli received their son's autism diagnosis and sought the best possible care, discovering ABA therapy. Its stated mission is to bring high-quality ABA therapy services to children with autism in their communities. From a single center in Mishawaka, Indiana, the organization has expanded to more than 40 centers across the Midwest and beyond, serving thousands of families.

Coverage, locations, and access

Lighthouse Autism Center operates a network of centers in several states, with a presence in Indiana, Iowa, Illinois, Michigan, Nebraska, and North Carolina. Its corporate headquarters is located in Schaumburg, Illinois. The center accepts Medicaid and commercial insurance, although a note on its website warns that it no longer accepts Indiana Anthem Medicaid. Care is aimed at children ages 1 to 12, with flexible scheduling.

Team and careers

The center has a clinical team made up of Board Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBAs), Registered Behavior Technicians (RBTs), and speech-language pathologists. The organization posts job openings and describes its internal culture around values such as compassion, trust, courage, and commitment. It also provides resources for medical professionals who wish to refer patients.

Location and contact

650 E Algonquin Rd Schaumburg, IL 60173