Autism Treatment Center

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Autism Treatment Center

Autism Treatment Center

16511 Hunting Valley, San Antonio, TX 78247

For more information about senior living options: (844) 490-3973

3.7 from 26 reviews
5 stars
16
4 stars
2
3 stars
0
2 stars
0
1 stars
8

Assisted Living Board and Care Home

Overall Review of Autism Treatment Center

Pros

  • pro The staff are friendly and helpful.
  • pro The receptionist greeted guests promptly upon arrival.
  • pro Some staff truly care about the clients.
  • pro The facility has a great staff.
  • pro The child loves going there and does not fight about it.

Cons

  • pro The center is criticized for not being ASD-friendly.
  • pro The staff is described as often few in number and not genuinely caring; autistic applicants are reportedly turned away.
  • pro It is alleged that staff restrained a child to administer a COVID-19 vaccine.
  • pro The facility is accused of abuse (physical, mental, and possibly sexual) and is called to be shut down.
  • pro A former employee describes abusive, unsafe conditions with confinement and little meaningful activity, risking the child's safety.
  • pro Staff are said to stay mainly to rack up overtime, implying exploitation and cash-driven care.
  • pro Toys and clothes purchased by parents were taken away, and children were placed with much older teens, leading to worse problems.

Review

The collection of experiences shared about this autism treatment center in Wichita Falls, Texas paints a picture that is as conflicted as it is cautionary. On one hand, there are moments of warmth and competence that people notice and remember - receptionists who greet you warmly, staff who seem genuinely kind, and a facility that some families feel their child can thrive in. A parent recounts being greeted by the receptionist as soon as they arrived and describes the staff as friendly and helpful overall. In another note, someone says the place feels like a great facility with capable people, and that their own child does not fight to come there and even seems to love it. Those positive threads suggest that, for some families, the center provides a welcoming environment and a sense of stability.

Yet these favorable impressions are contrasted by a chorus of deeper concerns about how the program operates and what the day-to-day experience is like for the residents. Several reviewers point out that there are truly caring staff members, but they emphasize that such individuals are few and far between. The center is criticized for turning away autistic men and women who seek to contribute or volunteer, implying barriers to meaningful engagement for those on the spectrum who want to help or participate. The implication is that supportive personnel exist, but they are not consistently available, leaving residents and families to cope with a system that can feel cold or impersonal at times.

The vaccine episode adds a jarring dimension to the narrative. A parent recounts that their autistic son, who is afraid of shots, received a COVID-19 vaccination at the center. The parent acknowledges that the staff restrains the child to administer the shot and expresses gratitude for that action. This point highlights a troubling tension: the need to manage distress and medical care for autistic children in ways that can feel coercive or forceful, which some readers may find troubling even when the intention is safety or medical necessity.

Another thread in the accounts is a sense of dissonance between the labeled mission of the center and the lived reality inside the facility. A reviewer who previously worked there describes a culture of high turnover and a "hardest and highest turnover" home, where children are described as wild and bored because they are largely confined to the house. Even when outings are described as community activities, the reviewer contends that the purpose is often to accomplish the workers' chores - such as laundry or meals - rather than to enrich the children's experiences. The reviewer depicts a system where cameras surveil the children, and where the ability of children to unlock gates and run toward danger is a real risk. The claim is that staff use time and attendance policies - racking up overtime and sometimes staying overnight - to maximize pay, and that this environment contributes to an atmosphere of violence and insufficient staff education. The overall impression is of a facility that may be financially incentivized to extend shifts, with safety and well-being taking a back seat to administrative efficiency and control.

The gravity of these concerns deepens with another, more devastating account from a parent. This individual describes severe inadequacies in care and a chilling pattern of abuse not only by the center's staff but also by those who work within the children's home associated with the program. They recount a situation where toys and clothing handed to their child were taken away, and where a five-year-old was placed in the care of teens two or three times the child's age, constituting a dangerous misalignment of peers and supervision. The parent raises the specter of abuse - physical, mental, and what they strongly believe to be sexual abuse - and argues that the center and even child protective services in Wichita Falls should be shut down. The intensity and specificity of these allegations underline a level of fear and distrust that would understandably alarm families considering this program.

Taken together, these reviews present a striking dichotomy: for some families, the center is a place of warmth, structure, and genuine connection with staff who seem committed to helping children. For others, it is a space of risk, coercion, neglect, and even harm, where the best intentions do not translate into safe or humane treatment. The strongest threads of criticism center on a perceived misalignment between the center's stated mission and the lived reality inside, including unsafe practices, inconsistent care, overstretched and undertrained staff, and an environment that feels more revolving-door than restorative. The accounts speak of missed opportunities for true ASD-friendly programming, with some reviewers feeling that the system prioritizes staffing and administrative concerns over real therapeutic engagement and safeguarding.

In summary, the reviews reveal a facility that elicits mixed experiences and strong emotions. For some families, there are glimmers of positive interaction, supportive staff, and a child who adapts and looks forward to visits. For others, there is a troubling panorama of restricted freedoms, potential neglect, strenuous methods of handling medical care, and alarming allegations of abuse. The consensus among these voices is not uniform, but the call for careful oversight, accountability, and a thorough examination of practices is unmistakable. The stories collectively urge prospective families to weigh both the hopeful and the hazardous aspects with caution, and to seek out verifiable, independent assurances about safety, quality of care, and the protection of children within the program.

Features

Housing

  • 7 resident community capacity 7 resident community capacity

Types of Care

  • Assisted Living Assisted LivingAssisted living facilities provide crucial support and care for seniors who may need help with daily tasks such as medication management, bathing, and meal preparation. These communities offer a safe and comfortable environment where seniors can maintain their independence while receiving the assistance they need to thrive in their golden years.
  • Board and Care Home Board and Care HomeBoard and care homes provide a smaller, more intimate setting for seniors who require assistance with daily tasks but do not need the level of care offered by a nursing home. They offer personalized care, meals, and social activities in a homelike environment, ensuring that seniors receive individualized attention and support in their golden years.

Amenities

  • Cable or satellite TV Cable or satellite TVCable or satellite TV is important for seniors because it provides entertainment, news, and companionship, helping to combat loneliness and boredom. It also offers a wide range of programming options tailored to different interests and preferences.
  • Dining room Dining roomDining rooms are important for seniors as they provide a space for socialization, connection, and nutritious meals. They offer opportunities for residents to bond over shared meals, foster a sense of community, and promote healthy eating habits. Dining rooms also ensure that seniors have access to well-balanced meals tailored to their dietary needs and preferences.
  • Fully furnished Fully furnishedFully furnished senior living communities are important for seniors because they provide convenience, comfort, and a hassle-free moving experience. Seniors can easily settle into their new living space without the stress of having to buy and move furniture. This allows them to focus on enjoying their new home and community.
  • Garden GardenGardens are important for seniors as they provide a peaceful and therapeutic environment for relaxation, physical activity, and socialization. Being in nature has been shown to reduce stress, improve mood, and promote overall well-being. Gardens also offer opportunities for seniors to engage in gardening activities, which can improve mobility, flexibility, and cognitive function. Additionally, gardens create a sense of community and connection with others who share a passion for plants and outdoor spaces.
  • Housekeeping services Housekeeping servicesHousekeeping services are important for seniors because they help maintain a clean and safe living environment, promote independence, and reduce the risk of accidents or illnesses. Additionally, having assistance with household chores can alleviate physical strain and allow seniors to focus on other aspects of their well-being.
  • Move-in coordination Move-in coordinationMove-in coordination is important for seniors because it helps ease the transition into their new living environment. It ensures that all logistics, such as packing, organizing movers, and setting up utilities are taken care of, allowing seniors to focus on settling in and adjusting to their new home. Having a smooth move-in process can alleviate stress and anxiety, making the transition smoother and more enjoyable for seniors.
  • Outdoor space Outdoor spaceOutdoor spaces are important for seniors as they provide opportunities for physical activity, social interaction, exposure to natural light and fresh air, and a sense of connection to nature. Having access to outdoor spaces can improve overall well-being and quality of life for older adults living in senior communities.
  • Telephone TelephoneTelephones are important for seniors as they provide a lifeline for communication with loved ones, emergency services, and healthcare providers. They offer a sense of security and independence, enabling seniors to stay connected and access assistance when needed.
  • Wi-Fi/high-speed internet available Wi-Fi/high-speed internet availableWi-Fi/high-speed internet is important for seniors to stay connected with loved ones, access online resources, and participate in virtual activities to combat feelings of loneliness and isolation. It also allows them to easily manage healthcare needs, access entertainment, and engage in lifelong learning opportunities.

Transportation

  • San Antonio International (8 miles away) San Antonio International (8 miles away)

Care Services

  • 24-hour supervision 24-hour supervision24-hour supervision is important for seniors to ensure their safety, well-being, and access to immediate assistance in case of emergencies or health issues. This constant support provides peace of mind for both seniors and their loved ones, allowing them to age in place with dignity and security.
  • Activities of daily living assistance Activities of daily living assistanceActivities of daily living assistance are important for seniors because they provide essential support with tasks such as eating, bathing, dressing, and mobility. This assistance helps seniors maintain their independence, dignity, and overall quality of life as they age.
  • Assistance with bathing Assistance with bathingAssistance with bathing is crucial for seniors as it helps maintain personal hygiene, prevents infections, and ensures their overall well-being and comfort. It also provides a sense of dignity and independence for seniors who may struggle with this task on their own.
  • Assistance with dressing Assistance with dressingAssistance with dressing is important for seniors because it helps maintain their independence, promotes personal hygiene, prevents accidents and injuries, and improves overall quality of life. This service ensures that seniors can continue to dress comfortably and confidently, despite any physical limitations they may have.
  • Assistance with transfers Assistance with transfersAssistance with transfers is crucial for seniors as it helps prevent falls and injuries, maintains their independence, and ensures they can safely navigate their living environment. It also provides peace of mind for both seniors and their loved ones.
  • Coordination with health care providers Coordination with health care providersCoordination with health care providers is crucial for seniors to ensure proper medical care, medication management, and overall well-being. This collaboration helps prevent overlapping treatments, track progress more effectively, and provide comprehensive support tailored to individual needs.
  • Diabetes diet Diabetes dietA diabetes diet is crucial for seniors as it helps manage blood sugar levels, reduce risks of complications, and improve overall health and well-being. By following a balanced and nutritious diet tailored to their specific needs, seniors can better control their diabetes and enhance their quality of life.
  • Meal preparation and service Meal preparation and serviceMeal preparation and service are crucial for seniors as they may have limited mobility or energy to cook nutritious meals. Having access to healthy and convenient food options can ensure they are getting the proper nutrition needed to maintain their overall health and well-being.
  • Medication management Medication managementMedication management is crucial for seniors to ensure they are taking the right medications at the correct dosages and times. This helps prevent adverse drug interactions, reduces the risk of medication errors, and promotes overall health and well-being. Proactive management also allows for adjustments as needed based on changing health conditions or new prescriptions.
  • Special dietary restrictions Special dietary restrictionsSpecial dietary restrictions are important for seniors because age-related changes in metabolism and health conditions can make it difficult for their bodies to process certain foods. By following a diet tailored to their specific needs, seniors can maintain their overall health and well-being, manage chronic conditions, and reduce the risk of complications such as malnutrition or food interactions with medications.
  • Transportation arrangement (medical) Transportation arrangement (medical)Transportation arrangements for medical purposes are essential for seniors as they may have difficulty driving themselves to appointments or accessing public transportation. Having reliable and safe transportation options ensures that seniors can receive timely medical care and maintain their health and well-being.
  • Transportation to doctors appointments Transportation to doctors appointmentsTransportation to doctors' appointments is crucial for seniors as it ensures they have access to necessary medical care and support for their health needs. Without reliable transportation, seniors may struggle to attend important appointments, leading to potential delays in treatment and health complications. Providing transportation services helps seniors maintain their overall well-being and quality of life.

Dining

  • Diabetes diet Diabetes dietA diabetes diet is crucial for seniors as it helps manage blood sugar levels, reduce risks of complications, and improve overall health and well-being. By following a balanced and nutritious diet tailored to their specific needs, seniors can better control their diabetes and enhance their quality of life.
  • Special dietary restrictions Special dietary restrictionsSpecial dietary restrictions are important for seniors because age-related changes in metabolism and health conditions can make it difficult for their bodies to process certain foods. By following a diet tailored to their specific needs, seniors can maintain their overall health and well-being, manage chronic conditions, and reduce the risk of complications such as malnutrition or food interactions with medications.

Activities

  • Community-sponsored activities Community-sponsored activitiesCommunity-sponsored activities are important for seniors as they provide opportunities for social interaction, mental stimulation, and physical activity. These activities can help improve overall well-being, combat loneliness and isolation, and promote a sense of belonging and purpose among older adults.
  • Scheduled daily activities Scheduled daily activitiesScheduled daily activities are important for seniors because they provide structure, socialization, mental stimulation, and physical activity. Engaging in regular activities can improve overall well-being and quality of life for seniors living in a community setting.

Description

The Autism Treatment Center in San Antonio, TX is a specialized care facility that provides board and care home services for individuals with autism. The center offers a range of amenities to ensure the comfort and well-being of its residents.

The fully furnished living spaces provide a cozy and welcoming environment for residents, and the dining room allows for communal meals where special dietary restrictions can be accommodated. Housekeeping services are available to maintain cleanliness, while move-in coordination ensures a smooth transition for new residents.

Outdoor space is provided for relaxation and recreation, and residents have access to telephone and Wi-Fi/high-speed internet services to stay connected with loved ones.

The dedicated staff at the Autism Treatment Center assists with activities of daily living such as bathing, dressing, and transfers. They also coordinate with healthcare providers to ensure comprehensive care. For those with specific medical needs, diabetes diets can be provided.

Meal preparation and service are offered, taking into consideration any special dietary restrictions. Medication management is available to ensure proper administration of medications.

Transportation arrangements can be made for medical appointments, allowing residents to easily access necessary healthcare services. Additionally, transportation is available for visits to nearby cafes, parks, pharmacies, restaurants, places of worship, and hospitals.

To keep residents engaged and active, the Autism Treatment Center schedules daily activities tailored to their interests and abilities.

Overall, the Autism Treatment Center in San Antonio offers a supportive environment where individuals with autism receive personalized care from a compassionate staff while enjoying various amenities and convenient access to nearby facilities.

Nearby Places of Interest

This part of San Antonio, Texas, offers a convenient and diverse range of amenities for seniors. With multiple pharmacies nearby, accessing medication and healthcare services is easily accessible. In terms of dining options, there are well-known chain restaurants such as Whataburger and Olive Garden, as well as local favorites like Chuy's and Las Palapas. Various parks provide opportunities for outdoor recreation and relaxation, while a selection of medical facilities like Northeast Internal Medical Associates and Total Health Primary Care offer comprehensive healthcare services. Additionally, there are several cafes for socializing and enjoying beverages. Places of worship cater to various religious denominations, and hospitals like Baptist Health Systems provide quality medical care. Entertainment options include theaters like Regal Northwoods and EVO Entertainment. Overall, this area provides a well-rounded living experience with easy access to essential services for seniors looking to settle in San Antonio.

Pharmacies

  • Walmart Pharmacy (0.4 miles)
  • Walmart Pharmacy (0.5 miles)
  • CVS Pharmacy (1.1 miles)
  • Walgreens (2 miles)
  • H-E-B Pharmacy (2 miles)
  • CVS Pharmacy (4.1 miles)
  • Walgreens (4.3 miles)

Restaurants

  • Whataburger (0.6 miles)
  • BJ's Restaurant & Brewhouse (2.3 miles)
  • Olive Garden (2.3 miles)
  • Chuy's (2.4 miles)
  • Raising Cane's Chicken Fingers (2.6 miles)
  • Las Palapas (2.6 miles)
  • Chick-Fil-A (2.7 miles)

Parks

  • Comanche Lookout Park (0.6 miles)
  • Converse Park Playground (5.1 miles)
  • Converse City Park (6.5 miles)
  • Lou Karden Memorial Park (7.2 miles)

Physicians

  • Northeast Internal Medical Associates (2.7 miles)
  • Conviva Care Center Live Oak (2.8 miles)
  • Northeast Prohealth (2.9 miles)
  • Medical Center Ophthalmology Associates (2.9 miles)
  • Total Health Primary Care (3.7 miles)
  • Belmund Catague, MD (4.4 miles)
  • TSAOG Orthopaedics - Schertz (4.5 miles)

Cafes

  • Starbucks (2.8 miles)
  • Kung Fu Tea (3.1 miles)
  • La Media Luna Cafe (4.8 miles)
  • Starbucks (4.8 miles)
  • Starbucks (5.9 miles)
  • Starbucks (6.5 miles)

Places of Worship

  • Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints (4.2 miles)
  • Hope Church (4.8 miles)
  • Community Bible Church (5.5 miles)
  • Good Shepherd Catholic Church (6 miles)
  • Northrock Church (6.9 miles)
  • Abiding Presence Lutheran Church (7 miles)

Hospitals

  • Baptist Health Systems (4.4 miles)
  • Barr & Gossett (5.3 miles)
  • Schertz Dialysis Centers (5.3 miles)

Theaters

  • Regal Northwoods (6.2 miles)
  • EVO Entertainment (6.4 miles)
  • Alamo Drafthouse Stone Oak (6.7 miles)

Transportation

  • Skyplace Center (7.4 miles)

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is Autism Treatment Center?

Nearby Communities

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