Posts by The New Focus Team
Gender-Inclusivity and The Autism Spectrum
At the Focus Group, gender inclusivity is not just a policy, but a commitment our community makes to fostering a supportive and understanding environment. We believe in the power of inclusivity and acceptance, especially for our students on the autism spectrum or those with other neurodevelopmental difficulties. Our community is all-gender and while our houses…
Read MoreAutonomy Development Model
Our Unique Model for Success on the Spectrum Helping students reach their highest level of autonomy motivated John Webb and Dr. Brandon Park to develop the Autonomy Development Model. The model combines the student’s progression through the stages of autonomy with the treatment team’s changing approach as we work together to increase the student’s autonomy…
Read MoreSupporting Autonomy and Growth for Teens and Young Adults
New Focus Academy and Life Focus Transitions specialize in supporting the autonomy and growth of students who have Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) or similar neurodevelopmental difficulties. Student Profile ASD Level 1 and high level 2 ADHD IQ 80+ Nonverbal Learning Disorder…
Read MoreAutism and The Neuroverse
Dr. Brandon Park, Neuropsychologist and Founder of New Focus Academy, in collaboration with Alta Swarnes, the academy’s passionate Family Connections Director, proudly announces the debut of their insightful new podcast. This innovative series aims to shed light on autism, neurodiversity, and related co-occurring disorders, merging the latest in neuroscience with genuine family and professional support strategies.…
Read MoreIndividualized Care at New Focus Academy
Individualized Care at New Focus Academy We are dedicated to providing truly individualized care and tailored experiences for each student. As an autism support program, we focus on supporting each student’s diverse needs, perspectives, and goals. Our smaller program size plays a pivotal role in creating an intimate and supportive environment. With fewer students,…
Read MoreEmbracing Community at New Focus Academy
Embracing Community at New Focus Academy Being a part of a community is integral to personal growth. Students at New Focus thrive because they are in an environment where they not only learn but actively contribute to the social fabric around them. Getting our students out into the community is a deliberate choice. We…
Read MoreADHD Treatment: The benefits of Using Meditation as Medication
ADHD makes it difficult to remember things, to focus, and to be attentive for long periods of time. It can be hard watching your child struggle with these challenges. You don’t understand. Your patience runs thin sometimes. It can be frustrating for you, your child, teachers, and peers. No one understands unless they are also…
Read MoreWhat TV Gets Right and Wrong About Neurodevelopmental Disorders
Atypical, The Good Doctor, and the new Power Rangers movie: what do they all have in common? They all include a main character on the spectrum. While neurodevelopmental disorders on tv is more inclusive than ever before for autism in the media, some have pointed out that it’s only showing one side of autism. No…
Read MoreNew Study Shows the Cons of Typical Schools & Pros of Autism Schools
If you’re the parent of an adolescent on the spectrum, it’s no surprise to you that kids with autism often feel left out in school. They often feel like outcasts, like they don’t fit in–and their neurotypical peers don’t really try to change that. Autism schools–that is schools created specifically to aid students on the…
Read MoreWhat is an Autism School and How Can it Help My Child?
Research has indicated that students with autism can make progress on educational and social goals within inclusion classrooms. While both public and autism-focused schools can provide assistance for your child, there are a few important things to consider prior to making the decision of where to enroll your child. According to the National Research Council…
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