The RDI® program, developed by Dr. Steven Gutstein and Dr. Rachelle Sheely at the Connections Center in Houston, is a family-based treatment model designed to address the deficits of children and adults who have Autism Spectrum Disorders or other types of neurodevelopmental disabilities. Certified professionals are trained to provide assessment and consultation to families in order to address the research-based core deficits of these disorders, such as flexible thinking, communication, self-awareness, problem solving, and relationships with others. This approach focuses on addressing the root causes of communication, behavioral, and social difficulties, as opposed to just compensating for them.

Kowalczyk’s certification brings the total number of RDI® Program Certified Consultants at Horizons to four, making the center the largest provider of RDI® treatment services outside of the Houston Connections Center. This number is also a significant given that there are only 166 professionals certified in this approach worldwide. A team of certified consultants provides the benefit of their collective expertise, and allows families to select a consultant that is best suited to their needs and personalities. “People often refer to us as the best kept treatment secret in Michigan,” said Nicole Beurkens, Horizons founder and director. “We serve so many families out of state and in other countries, but many people don’t know we exist right here in their own backyard!” Having an additional certified consultant will allow Horizons to meet the needs of more families here in Michigan, as well as in other states and around the world.

About Horizons

Established in 2003, the Horizons Developmental Remediation Center, located in Caledonia, Michigan, is a multidisciplinary clinic utilizing innovative research-based approaches to address the deficits of children, adolescents, and adults with developmental and neurological disabilities. Founded by Nicole Beurkens, the Center provides RDI® program services as well as complementary services such as occupational therapy, speech therapy, feeding therapy, employment training, parent coaching, and individualized instructional programs. Program and staff information, as well as family stories are available at www.horizonsdrc.com.