Building Meaningful Connections

Compassionate, neurodiversity-affirming support for autistic children and adults in Minnesota

Welcome to Connections Health Center

We are a dedicated autism center in Minnesota providing high-quality, evidence-based therapies in a nurturing and inclusive environment.

Our mission is to help every individual with autism build meaningful connections — with themselves, their families, and their community.

Our Values

  • Individualized Care
  • Family Partnership
  • Neurodiversity Affirming
  • Compassion First

Our Services

ABA Therapy

Neurodiversity-affirming Applied Behavior Analysis

Speech & Language Therapy

Play-based communication support

Occupational Therapy

Sensory integration and daily living skills

Neurodiversity-Affirming ABA Therapy

We practice modern, ethical ABA that respects autistic identity while supporting meaningful skill development.

Our Philosophy

At Connections Health Center, we view autism as a natural form of neurodiversity. Our goal is not to "fix" or hide autistic traits, but to empower each person to thrive as their authentic self.

Key Features of Our Approach

  • Assent-Based Therapy
  • Strengths & Interest-Led Learning
  • Stimming & Sensory Support
  • Anti-Masking Practices
  • Self-Advocacy Development

Common Goals We Support

✓ Communication (verbal & AAC)

✓ Social connection on their terms

✓ Emotional regulation

✓ Independence & life skills

✓ Attention & learning skills

✓ Sensory integration

✓ Self-advocacy

✓ Quality of life & well-being

Meet Our Providers

👩‍⚕️

Sarah Thompson, MA, BCBA

Clinical Director & Board Certified Behavior Analyst

Specializes in neurodiversity-affirming ABA and early intervention.

🧠

Dr. Michael Rivera, PhD, CCC-SLP

Speech-Language Pathologist

Expert in augmentative communication and neurodiversity-affirming practices.

👐

Emily Chen, OTR/L

Occupational Therapist

Focuses on sensory integration and supporting autistic individuals authentically.

Visit or Contact Us

We're here to support your family

(651) 983-2666

1919 Broadway St NE
Minneapolis, MN 55413

Monday - Friday: 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Saturday appointments available upon request