Autism Connections

Working together to develop successful lives from childhood to adulthood.

Judson Center Autism Connections has sites conveniently located in Royal Oak, Farmington Hills, Ann Arbor, Flint and Warren to serve you and your family. Locations are conveniently located in a friendly environment where all are welcome.

Individuals with a diagnosis of ASD make great strides in many areas of their lives through our comprehensive services that meet the needs of all ages.

At Judson Center’s Autism Connections, we realize that an Autism diagnosis impacts the entire family not just the individual. That’s why we offer a comprehensive approach designed to embrace the individual needs of those with a diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and their families from age two through early adulthood. We provide evidenced based, applied behavioral analysis services (ABA) to the individual, as well as counseling services, parent trainings, sibshops and events/workshops for family members.

Our focus is on providing a continuum of care, from teaching pre education skills (communication, play behaviors) with a three year old, to addressing skills needed for an adolescent or young adults, such as community skills, daily living skills and pre-vocational skills.

We pride ourselves on our robust staff training, as well as continued education requirements of our Board Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBAs), and Behavior Tutors. Each staff member provides high-quality goal- and data-driven services in their specialty area. All services are individualized to meet the needs of the client.

Our Staff

Autism services at Judson Center are unique, as we have provided quality services long before most providers became established. We offer a comprehensive, continuum approach, where there are services for all family members, and from early on needs to transitional living skills for soon to be adults.

Sue Salhaney
Chief Operating Officer

Sue is an alumna from Western Michigan University where she earned her Bachelor of Science degree in Criminal Justice.

Throughout her 35 year career, Sue has dedicated herself to ensuring the safety and well-being of children and families. In her current role as Chief Operating Officer, Sue oversees autism, disability and integrated health care services, which includes primary health care and the operations of a certified community behavioral health clinic (CCBHC) offering mental health and substance use disorder services. Prior to assuming the role of Chief Operating Officer, Sue worked very closely with children and families as the Child Welfare Director at Judson Center.

Sue is an alumna of Leadership Detroit XL. She has been a member of numerous statewide committees focused on child welfare services and a strong advocate for the well-being of vulnerable children, families and adults in Michigan.

Autism FAQ

What is autism?

Autism spectrum disorder is a neuro-biological disorder that impacts the development of social skills, communication skills, sensory regulation and behaviors.

My child will not look me in the eyes, could he have autism?

Children with a diagnosis of an autism spectrum disorder (ASD) typically have poor eye contact, however, not all children with poor eye contact have a diagnosis of ASD. Be sure to have your child evaluated to determine their needs.

If my child doesn’t talk, do they have autism?

Not necessarily. Those diagnosed with an autism spectrum disorder are impacted in communication skills, but also social skills, and display restricted interests, and often repetitive behaviors (e.g. flapping their hands).

Where should I go if I suspect my child has an autism spectrum disorder (ASD)?

Families should ask their pediatricians to complete a ‘screen’ to see if there are enough signs that indicate autism. If the screen is positive, it does not mean your child has autism, but that they should be evaluated for autism. Your insurance company can then direct you to what Autism Approved Evaluation Center would be able to take your insurance, and conduct the assessment.

If my child has a diagnosis of autism, does that mean they won’t be successful in life?

No. Many individuals with an autism diagnosis are able to develop and strengthen skills, and hold successful jobs, develop friendships, as well as get married and have a family. All individuals with an autism spectrum disorder (ASD) are unique, with varying strengths, abilities, and needs.