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EVANS, Ga.— Autism has emerged as the fastest-growing developmental disorder in the United States, now affecting 1 in 31 children, according to the National Autism Association.
In the heart of Evans, Georgia, a local organization is making significant strides in supporting families with autistic children. Since 2019, the Launch Therapy Center has been a beacon of hope and assistance, extending its resources to hundreds both locally and across the nation who are navigating the unique challenges of autism.
A visit to the clinic any day of the week reveals the joyful laughter of children enjoying themselves in an environment designed to nurture and support them. This atmosphere of safety and happiness is precisely what CEO Shawn Bohanan cherishes as the cornerstone of their mission.
Throughout the week, you’ll find two things when you enter a clinic: children laughing and having fun.
It’s this safe environment that’s most important to CEO Shawn Bohanan.
“Myself, I have a child on the Autism spectrum—my youngest is 8. So, just being able to walk in those shoes alongside people who are supportive in the community has been really helpful and game changing for us as a family,” said Bohanan.
Launch helps youth ages 1-21 with developmental disabilities live safer and more fulfilling lives.
Employees engage with children using a key strategy, called Applied Behavior Analysis therapy.
“It’s the principles of positive reinforcement. Being able to work on children’s skills in communication, social skills, adaptive living skills. We apply the science of behavior to all those different areas so we can set the child up for success in their environment,” Bohanan said.
Launch has 3 locations, with one in Wisconsin and two here in Augusta.
That includes the Evans clinic on Washington Road, which opened in July 2023.
“It’s about progression, not perfection. I love seeing the small steps and progress that our clients make. On the flip side, it’s seeing the parents’ joy in teaching them that their kids can do things,” said Marissa Craft, clinical director for the Evans location.
Each child they serve comes from different homes, different neighborhoods, and different families.
But, the mission to guide each family on the Autism journey stays the same.
“We’re always learning. I’m still learning as the clinical director, as well as my parents who come through the doors. When they get into the program, be open minded and know that this is for the betterment of their growth, your family, and being able to do things as a family that you never thought you could do,” said Craft.
Construction is currently underway on a 4th Launch Therapy Center location, which is set to go on Furys Ferry Road in Martinez.
Leaders are expecting to open that clinic in June.