Newly opened Family Treehouse Therapy readies children with autism for traditional classrooms

Family Treehouse Therapy ABA, which serves children with autism, held its ribbon cutting in Vernon on July 31. Owners Samantha Osborne, board certified behavioral therapist, and Debbie Leitao, administrator, are excited to begin their new venture.

ABA, or Applied Behavior Analysis, is offered to children with autism on an insurance-funded basis. The individualized day program is for autistic youngsters from 18 months to six years old. Osborne is responsible for child assessments and the formation of behavior plans.

They are guided by RBTs (registered behavioral technicians), who reinforce social, work and language skills, everyday safety, functioning group experiences, and school readiness that will lead to mainstreaming into a traditional classroom.

Treehouse Therapy’s goal is “Barriers Broken, Challenges Overcome and Progress Made.”

Family Treehouse Therapy also offers in-home services and an after-school program highlighting family involvement.

“ABA is evidence-based science. It is proven to be beneficial to the autistic community,” said Osborne, a Highland Lakes resident.

She stressed the need for ABA therapy in the Sussex County area, saying that the therapy is widely available in Bergen County but limited and much needed here.

Family Treehouse Therapy is located at 521 County Route 515 Suite 1 and 2 in Vernon Township.