The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates that autism spectrum disorders (ASD) impact 1 in 31 children in the United States. Nationwide, millions of children and their families must face the hurdles of dealing with these neurodevelopmental conditions. Autism and Behavioral Spectrum (AB Spectrum) is dedicated to ensuring that families have access to early diagnosis, one-of-kind therapy and critical resources. Founded by Naina Haider and her husband, Syed, the clinic has five locations in eastern Missouri, serving the St. Louis region and beyond.
AB Spectrum’s approach to treatment is groundbreaking. It combines Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) with the Reggio Emilia approach. An Italian education method, its principles include allowing children to control the direction of their learning, providing experiences to help them grow and allowing them to express themselves in many different ways. “We view children as an explorer and active participant in the learning process,” executive clinical leader Jody Kyle explains. “We utilize their interests to guide the therapy.” This child-centered approach combined with the evidence-based strategies of ABA creates a therapeutic framework that fosters communication, emotional growth and cognitive development.
The clinic offers early diagnostic screening and evaluation, allowing for a more streamlined approach to beginning treatment. “Early intervention is going to be the most effective,” Kyle says. “We find that many parents feel lost when they first come to us. We do our best to help them navigate their autism journey by taking a collaborative approach.” The onboarding process is handled by a dedicated intake coordinator who works one-on-one with each family. Once that process is complete, they are paired with a behavior analyst who does an individualized evaluation and creates a personalized list of goals based on the child’s communication, cognitive and social skills.
AB Spectrum is designed to appear more like a preschool than a traditional clinic. Treatment never includes isolation or restraints. Spaces are warm and inviting, sparking kids’ curiosity and interest. Haider adds that there also are designated outdoor play areas for children to explore—something not often prioritized in clinics. “Special events and Reggio activities are built into our curriculum,” she says. “We’ve brought in animals for the children to interact with. We’ve hosted food trucks, bubble and foam buses, and other outside vendors. Firefighters, police officers and superheroes have visited our campuses. Our own administration team often dresses up. The goal is to create a fun, laughter-filled environment.”
That commitment to creating a positive and supportive atmosphere extends to how AB Spectrum treats its staff. Behavior analysts work with no more than five or six children to ensure quality of supervision. The company emphasizes supporting employees’ mental and physical wellbeing while also providing opportunities for career and educational advancement. The impact of that dedication is clear. “We have a 95% retention rate for our clinicians, which is huge for this industry,” Haider notes. “We make sure we’re investing in our people—whether that’s hosting nights out, ensuring a good work-life balance or offering clear career paths. When it comes to both clients or staff, AB Spectrum puts people first.”
Autism and Behavioral Spectrum (AB Spectrum) is the world’s first Reggio Emilia Applied Behavior Analysis therapy clinic. It is committed to building respect, responsibility and community for a brighter future. Pictured on the cover: Founder and CEO Naina Haider, executive clinical leader Jody Kyle. For more information, call 314.860.6124 or visit abspectrum.org.
Cover design by Julie Streiler
Cover photo by Tim Parker Photography
Pictured at top: Dr. Syed Ibad Haider, Naina Aijaz Haider, Jody Kyle, Ahad Hosseini, Elaine Barnes
Photo: Tim Parker Photography
