Community Resource

Children's After-School Treatment Services -Autism Spectrum Disorder CATS ASD (Division of Family Guidance)

(201) 336-6900
Hackensack

Children's After-School Treatment Services -Autism Spectrum Disorder CATS ASD (Division of Family Guidance)
  • C.A.T.S. ASD is a therapeutic after-school program designed to help improve the social skills of Children ages 10-12 who are on the autism spectrum.
  • The C.A.T.S. ASD program includes play-based group therapy, art therapy, therapeutic recreational activities and family support services.
  • C.A.T.S. services are provided at no cost to participating families.
  • Referrals are accepted from parents, schools, and other community agencies.

Services

  • C.A.T.S. ASD targets social, emotional, and developmental issues which impact each child’s development and growth.
  • The C.A.T.S. curriculum utilizes evidence based practice which helps children to develop empathy, gain greater impulse control, practice problem solving methods, as well as increase their frustration tolerance through anger management and relaxation training.
  • C.A.T.S.ASD groups are held on Fridays during the academic school year.
  • The program follows the Bergen County Special Services school district’s holiday, vacation, and school closing schedules.

Getting Started

  • The first step of the treatment process is a phone screening with the parent/caregiver to determine a child’s ability to benefit from the C.A.T.S. ASD program.
  • If a child seems appropriate for the C.A.T.S. ASD program, an intake interview is scheduled with the parent/caregiver. During this process, the therapist collects detailed information about the child and the family.

Eligibility Children ages 10-12 years old on the autism spectrum and can function independently.
Age Groups
  • Children
  • Adolescents
Community Services
Arts & Recreation
Family & Support Services
Health Services
Intellectual and Developmental Needs
Treatment Services
Outpatient Services

Last Updated: 08/10/23