Letter from an Autism Mom to Hopebridge

Hear more about Mason’s story, including a brand new, post-ABA update. Follow along below:

• A Letter from the Haase Family
• Where is He Now? Mason’s Journey Beyond ABA at Hopebridge
• ABA and Family Guidance Built Skills That Last
• A Solid Start in School
• Words of Wisdom for Other Families on the Autism Journey

To the amazing people at Hopebridge,

My name is Jen Haase and my son Mason is graduating from the Hopebridge North center in Tucson, Arizona this week. He has been attending Hopebridge since April of 2021, so almost 2 years.

He started out at the East center while the North one was getting up and running (we live closer to North). From the moment we first started at Hopebridge with an evaluation, I can tell you we felt at home. The front desk staff/manager were beyond friendly, compassionate and understanding and the BCBA that did the evaluation was so knowledgeable and kind and made us feel so welcome. As we got a tour of the center, I could feel a weight lifted off of my shoulders, we had finally found the place that
would accept, love and lead my child in just the way that he needed. The very first day I dropped him off, the amazing RBT that was going to be with him for the day was beyond loving towards Mason and I could tell she couldn’t wait to play and get to know him and she was going to take great care of him.

After a few months, the North center was done and we transferred over there. We got a new BCBA and RBT, but again we felt right at home. Mason went full-time at the center a little over a year and then it was time to prep him for Kindergarten. At this point in time, I was nervous, would he be ready? Our BCBA assured me he would be. And she was right. I don’t know how she did it, but every program she created for Mason was spot on. Looking back at where he was when we began to where he was then, I couldn’t believe how far he’d come. Every parent training I took, I always received an update on Mason and his goals and what they’d been working on and everything would come together and make sense. The skills and tools we were taught in parent training helped us stay consistent with what he was learning in the center. I was always able to ask questions, voice concerns and ask for help. I always felt heard and everything was always followed up on. Even when the time came to enroll Mason in Kindergarten and sit in our first IEP meeting, our BCBA was there. When he had a really rough first week, our BCBA took the time to speak to his special education teacher and give her some ideas on how to help.

Hopebridge has been there, every step of the way. They’ve guided Mason and guided us to a place I never thought we’d be. To say we are grateful would be an understatement. Hopebridge has not only been our home, but everyone there has been our family. It’s easy to see that everyone there loves what they do and loves our kids like we do. When our son was diagnosed with autism, we were scared, worried and not sure what the future held for us or for our son. Hopebridge has truly been a place of hope while guiding us through such a tough time in our lives. We will continue to sing their praises and recommend Hopebridge to anyone we come in contact with that might be in our same situation.

Thank you from the bottom of our hearts,
The Haase Family, Tucson Arizona

Where is He Now? Mason’s Journey Beyond ABA at Hopebridge

From three-word phrases to full conversations, Mason’s story is a testament to growth, resilience and a community that helped him thrive.

Mason “graduated” from Hopebridge in February 2023 with a backpack full of new skills, a heart full of confidence, and a family who tells us they are forever grateful for the people and progress that carried him through.

Now, Mason is a thriving second grader—an artistic, space-loving, music-curious kid. Though the road has had its bumps, his mom, Jen, says the foundation Hopebridge laid for him made all the difference.

ABA and Family Guidance Built Skills That Last

Before fully transitioning out of the therapy center, Mason spent part of his days in applied behavior analysis (ABA) at Hopebridge and part in kindergarten. That bridge between environments eased Mason and his family into the next phase.

“We didn’t want to leave,” said Jen about the transition. “Hopebridge felt like home, but he was ready. His therapy team prepared him for school and the gradual shift helped.”

In addition to the school readiness skills Mason built in the center, Jen believes a part of that preparation stemmed from the family guidance sessions Hopebridge provided. Mason’s parents met regularly with his Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA). Together, they worked through his goals, discussed preparing for the school environment and even attended IEP meetings.

“I had no idea we’d get all that parent training as part of ABA,” said Jen. I thought it was just for kids, but I had someone supporting me through everything, too. It helped us stay consistent at home, and I still use the strategies they taught me.”

She described those sessions as “almost like therapy for me,” where she could talk through concerns and feel fully seen and supported as a caregiver. From tips like utilizing timers and advice for teaching teeth-brushing, the extra family education gave them the tools they still use with both Mason and his younger brother, Connor, who is not autistic but was born deaf and has cochlear implants.

“Our situation is unique and hasn’t always been easy, but Hopebridge gave us so many tools to support both our boys.”

A Solid Start in School

Jen told us Mason did well last year in first grade and then started this school year “phenomenally.” He spent most of his day in a general education classroom supported by an aide who helped him engage in the classroom environment. Jen was excited to see him have the opportunity to be with other kids and even move into higher reading groups!

Unfortunately, when his aide moved on to another position, Mason was moved into a special education classroom, which has introduced some challenges. Even so, Jen said they love the school and they are doing everything they can to work through this with them.

Outside the classroom, Mason’s passions have expanded into delightful directions. Still excited about space and the solar system, he’s now also deeply into arts and design. After discovering YouTube tutorials, he began making his own “movie posters,” mixing graphics of Sonic, the Minions and other characters into cosmic backgrounds.

“When he was little, I never thought he’d be into arts and crafts. He thrives in art now; it’s where he really lights up,” said Jen. “He’ll run to show us what he’s made. He’ll print pictures and create these incredible collages.”

He’s also getting into music. With a DJ dad who’s setting up a creative space for him at home, they are eager for Mason to explore new ways to express himself.

Words of Wisdom for Other Families on the Autism Journey

Jen wants other families who are just starting the autism journey to know that they are not alone.

“There may be a lot of information coming at you while you’re also figuring out what your child’s diagnosis means for them,” said Jen. “The Hopebridge team was so supportive for Mason and us during that time. They came from a place where we needed them.”

She also urges families to do their research, ask questions and not allow outdated perceptions of ABA to stop them from exploring it as an option for their child.

“There’s a stigma around ABA that I hope continues to change because it’s not what it used to be or what many people think it is. ABA at Hopebridge was supportive—not only for our child, but us too,” said Jen.

And as for Mason? He remembers Hopebridge. He still points it out when they drive by even two years later. And most importantly, he carries the lessons and independence from those early years into everything he does.

“Hopebridge will always be a special place in his heart,” Jen said.

Are you looking for a supportive place where your child can learn and develop their own independence? Hopebridge offers autism testing for families who still want answers, as well as ABA, speech and occupational therapy for those looking to take the next steps to set kids up with the foundation for a lifetime. Get started with us here to find out how Hopebridge can help your child reach their potential at home, in school and beyond.

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