When a child is diagnosed with autism, it’s normal to feel uncertain about what to do next. At Ädelbrook, we work with families to provide clear guidance, individualized services, and the tools needed to move forward with confidence.
What Is Autism?
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a developmental disability that affects how a person communicates, learns, and interacts with the world. The term “spectrum” reflects the broad range of characteristics and abilities found in individuals with autism. No two people with autism are alike—and that’s something we honor deeply at Ädelbrook.
People with autism may have unique ways of processing information, forming relationships, and expressing themselves. But they also bring extraordinary strengths: attention to detail, creativity, honesty, problem-solving, and deep passions in areas of interest.
Prevalence of Autism
Autism is the fastest-growing developmental disability in the United States. Today, approximately 1 in 31 children is diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) each year—a striking increase from 1 in 150 in 2000, representing a 380% increase in prevalence over the past two decades. In Connecticut alone, an estimated 3% of parents report having a child with autism—roughly 100,000 children across the state.
This growth underscores the urgent need for awareness, early diagnosis, and individualized support. Boys are nearly four times more likely to be diagnosed than girls, but autism affects individuals of all racial, ethnic, and socioeconomic backgrounds. It is also a lifelong condition—about 2.2% of U.S. adults are estimated to have autism.
Additionally, around 31% of individuals with autism have a co-occurring intellectual disability. However, with early intervention, evidence-based strategies, and a strengths-focused approach, individuals with autism can build meaningful connections, pursue independence, and lead fulfilling lives.
At Ädelbrook, we are proud to be a trusted resource for families navigating these diagnoses. Our programs are rooted in compassion, expertise, and person-centered care—empowering each child, teen, and young adult to thrive.
What Happens After a Diagnosis?
After receiving a diagnosis, many families ask the same questions:
- What support does my child need?
- What services are available?
- How do I effectively advocate for my child?
This is where Ädelbrook comes in.
Our person-centered, individualized approach is designed to meet children and young adults where they are. We create tailored support plans that reflect each individual’s strengths, goals, and potential—not just their challenges. A guardian spoke to Ädelbrook’s commitment to delivering personalized care:
“When we were looking at different programs, we immediately knew that Ädelbrook was the right place for our son. It was clear that the program was thoughtfully designed and organized around the students’ needs and abilities. Students are accepted as they are and staff are skilled at recognizing and maximizing each student’s potential. None of the other programs had the warmth, enthusiasm and feeling of home that we experienced at our first visit.”
How Ädelbrook Can Support Your Loved One
Ädelbrook provides high quality, person-centered care in 26 locations across Connecticut. Collaboratively, Ädelbrook offers comprehensive treatment plans for individuals with Autism, Developmental, and Intellectual Disabilities across their lifespan, including residential programs, community-based services, and an educational continuum. Ädelbrook’s programs are designed to promote growth, independence, and achievement.
Educational Programs
Ädelbrook provides a comprehensive, immersive special education continuum designed to meet students where they are and help them grow. Our four specialized academies serve a wide range of ages and needs:
- Ädelbrook Manchester Academy - NASET School of Excellence (ages 3–11)
- Ädelbrook Cromwell Academy - NASET School of Excellence (ages 9–22)
- Ädelbrook Bloomfield Academy (ages 9–22)
- Ädelbrook Transitional Academy (ages 18-22)
Across all locations, our mission remains the same: to empower each student with the support, structure, and individualized care they need to reach their full potential.
Residential Programs
In addition to the educational continuum, Ädelbrook offers a variety of licensed residential programming to support the individual growth, treatment, and integration of individuals within their community. The residential program, which serves a wide spectrum of needs and offers a variety of clinical services, includes:
- Residential Treatment Program (ages 12-21)
- Children’s Group Homes (ages 14-21)
- Adult Group Homes (ages 18+)
- Linda Reilly-Blue Respite Center (ages 8-21)
Resources and Support
Finding the right information and support after an autism diagnosis can make a world of difference—for both your child and your family. When you’re ready to explore services, ask questions, or just learn more, Ädelbrook is here for you.
To learn more, visit adelbrook.org, where you can:
- Explore Ädelbrook’s educational and residential programs
- Contact our admissions team about enrolling at Ädelbrook
- Access helpful resources for families and educators
- Read real stories from students, residents, and faculty of Ädelbrook
For direct support or to speak with someone about your child’s needs, please reach out to our Director of Admissions at cbuikus@adelbrook.org or (860)-759-3041.
