New academy center opens to teach children with autism in Phoenix

PHOENIX — There’s a new place where children with autism can learn life skills in Phoenix.

Centria Autism, which provides therapy for neurodiverse children, opened a center to teach students near Dunlap Avenue and Interstate 17 last week.

The Life Skills Autism Academy (LSAA) center is accepting new clients to begin services.

Leaders at the 10,467-square-foot center will accept a maximum of 55 students. They’ll give preference to clients who are 5 years old or younger.

How will this Phoenix center help children with autism?

A news release from Centria Autism describes the company as a national provider of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy.

This therapy style is based on the science of learning and behavior, according to nonprofit Autism Speaks.

Leaders hope this new center will help children develop skills and social behaviors ahead of school. Their services include intensive and individualized treatment plans.

A staff made up of board-certified behavior analysts and technicians will teach the children.

There are three other Arizona centers where Centria offers these services:

• 8260 S. Hardy Drive, Suite 110B, Tempe
• 6344 E. Broadway Road, Mesa
• 7155 W. Campo Bello Drive, Suite 135, Building D, Glendale

Two more centers are set to open in northwest Phoenix and in central Mesa, according to Centria’s website.

The health care company also operates academies in Georgia, Maryland, Michigan, North Carolina, Oregon, Texas and Virginia.