MEREDITH AUTISM PROGRAM
The Meredith Autism Program (MAP) provides early, intensive intervention for preschool-aged children diagnosed on the autism spectrum in the Triangle area through a practicum course experience for undergraduate students at Meredith College.
Our mission is to offer value-based care by implementing evidence-based practice for children to reach their fullest potential, while simultaneously providing a learning experience in the field of autism and Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) for Meredith students.
We serve children diagnosed on the autism spectrum between the ages of two and six full-time in the MAP facility. In addition to being a year-round, full-time autism service provider, MAP also operates an inclusive preschool classroom that incorporates neurotypical peers from the community to assist with building social skills in a small classroom setting.
*All children used in pictures and videos on this website are not currently enrolled families of the Meredith Autism Program.
Now accepting applications for Summer 2026 enrollment. Submit an application.
What is ABA?
ABA, Applied Behavior Analysis, is an evidence-based practice and scientific approach to understanding behaviors. It focuses on socially significant behavior in order to provide meaningful improvement in an individual’s life.
The implementation of ABA aims to increase functional behavior for long-lasting change across all environments. To understand behavior one must understand the environment (what comes before and after a behavior) and how it affects the future occurrence of the behavior. Principles are also applied to reduce behaviors that are harmful or interfere with learning by teaching replacement behaviors that are functionally equivalent.
Utilizing ABA at the early intervention stage allows the learner to build a strong foundation for understanding how to learn while teaching parents how to guide behaviors from an early age.
What is the Meredith Austism Program?
The Meredith Autism Program (MAP) provides early intervention for autistic preschoolers using Applied Behavior Analysis.
During her four years at Meredith, Yakira Gonzalez, ’24, has found the best part of herself by learning to use her strengths in any situation.
Internships, leadership opportunities, and the Meredith Autism Program have prepared Laura Jenkins, ’20, to take on an occupational therapy program after graduation.
Jennifer Orellana, ’19, has always enjoyed working with children, which sparked her interest in becoming a teacher. That was partially why she came to Meredith. But she discovered a new passion.
Autism Program News and Events
April is Autism Acceptance Month. The Meredith Autism Program (MAP) is an early intervention program that serves preschool aged children in the triangle area diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder. It is our mission to offer value-based care through the implementation of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) in order for autistic children to reach their fullest potential.
Abby Hope has joined the Meredith Autism Program (MAP) staff as a Behavior Consultant. Hope joined the team in January 2021.
The Meredith Autism Program (MAP) has named two longtime staff members to new leadership positions. Hilary Wilkinson has been named MAP director and Crystal Lester now serves as associate director.
Contact Information
Meredith Autism Program
3800 Hillsborough St.
Raleigh, NC 27607-5298
(919) 760-8080
Fax: (919) 760-8818
autism@meredith.edu
