Autism Journeys History In Utah

After working in the autism community for over a decade, Kate Andersen realized the growing need for autism therapy and the lack of qualified professionals available to provide individualized autism intervention. Kate's hands-on experience with autism spectrum disorders had shown her that a variety of autism treatment options were effective if chosen and implemented around each individual's strengths and needs. She had also seen the importance of provider collaboration, which ensures all areas of the individual's development are being addressed.

In March of 2007, Kate founded Autism Journeys and began working with families and professionals throughout the autism community doing autism consulting services, mainly in client's homes. Within 3 months Kate and her team were working at their capacity. The dream of helping families had become a reality, but so had the heartache of having to turn away many others. Autism Journeys simply wasn't able to do enough; the idea of expanding and helping more families became a top priority. With the help of clients, community supporters and autism leaders in the community, the plan to grow Autism Journeys was developed and put into action.

In November of 2008 the Autism Journeys Treatment Center opened its doors in Lehi, Utah. The 3500 square foot center was an amazing addition to the autism community and reached capacity within 6 months. Growing once again became a necessity. In September of 2009, Kate Andersen and Autism Journeys opened their newly renovated and spacious 7300 square foot center! Thus allowing twice as many families to begin receiving the support and treatment they so desperately deserve.

This amazing treatment center is lead by an all-star team of professionals with varied backgrounds, allowing Autism Journeys to provide a treatment plan addressing all areas of development. This team consists of a child psychologist, licensed clinical therapist, licensed speech-language pathologist, licensed occupational therapist, licensed educators, certified music therapist, and a variety of highly trained autism and developmental specialists.

Our Team is on top of the cutting edge treatment methods which include: ABA, Floor time and PLAY Project, PECS and other visual aids, TEACCH, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Canine Therapy, and Social-Thinking techniques. Autism Journeys will continue to produce the most individualized, comprehensive treatment to children and families in the autism community.

Team Leaders

Kate Andersen: President & Founder

Natalie Roth, Ph.D.: Psychologist

Howard F. Dahle, LPC: Clinical Therapist & Adult Services Director

Dawn Gummersall MS, CCC-SLP: Speech-Language Pathologist

Krisanne Lewis, OTR/L: Occupational Therapist

Morgan Dahle M.Ed: Program Director

Katie Jackson: Assistant Program Director

Natausha Despain: Music Therapist

Kathy Jensen: Office Manager

Ms. Gamee, K9: Canine Therapist