Des Moines Opens New Autism Therapy Clinic to Support Families and Children in Need

New Hope for Families in Des Moines

Des Moines has welcomed a new autism therapy clinic that aims to support families with young children on the autism spectrum. Caravel Autism Health, renowned for its expertise in autism diagnosis and treatment, hosted an official ribbon-cutting ceremony on April 14, 2026, marking the grand opening of its latest facility. Located at 475 Southwest 5th Street, this state-of-the-art clinic is equipped with everything needed to provide top-notch autism care.

The clinic's approach centers around Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy, which is widely recognized for its effectiveness in improving crucial skills such as communication and social interaction among children with autism. This method of therapy employs positive reinforcement strategies that have been endorsed by notable organizations, including the American Academy of Pediatrics and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Inside the clinic, colorful and sensory-friendly environments have been meticulously designed to help children feel comfortable and engaged. The therapists work one-on-one with each child, helping them build vital skills, boost self-confidence, and develop connections with their surroundings. Caravel's offerings also encompass a comprehensive suite of services that includes diagnostic evaluations, therapy, family support, and counseling designed to help families navigate the complexities related to autism.

Mike Miller, CEO of Caravel, expressed his enthusiasm for the new clinic, stating, "At Caravel, our mission is to change lives by bringing high-quality care to communities that need it most. Our specialized teams are eager to provide early screening and diagnosis, along with custom-tailored ABA therapy programs that enable children to reach their full potential. Opening a clinic in Des Moines will make it significantly easier for local parents to access the resources they need for their children."

The importance of early intervention in autism care cannot be overstated, especially considering that the latest CDC estimates indicate that about one in every 31 children is diagnosed with autism. Alexis Alvarez, the clinic's director, emphasized this point, stating, "Having access to a quality ABA therapy program during the crucial early developmental years is vital for children on the spectrum. This new clinic ensures that children in our community will have better outcomes and, ultimately, more fulfilling lives."

For families interested in learning more about autism services, or those looking for employment opportunities with Caravel, they can reach out via phone at 515-679-6737 or visit caravelautism.com.

About Caravel Autism Health

Established in 2009, Caravel Autism Health has made it its mission to guide families through the challenges associated with autism. With a dedicated focus on delivering exceptional results, the company's certified professionals are committed to providing thorough evaluations, accurate diagnoses, and effective therapy solutions tailored specifically for young children on the autism spectrum. Utilizing research-driven methodologies and a data-centric approach, Caravel is dedicated to promoting positive outcomes that enable children to engage more fully with the world around them.

This new facility in Des Moines represents a significant step towards broader accessibility to essential autism services, ensuring that families are equipped with the necessary tools to support their children.