April 2025 On the Rise New CDC Report Shows Higher Autism Rates and Highlights Complicated Challenges of Accurate Diagnosis Behavioral Health Business Awards Catalight Vice President of Clinical Operations with Frontline Honors Celebrating Autism Acceptance Month by Moving Toward Greater Inclusion APRIL 2025On the Rise April marks Autism Acceptance Month – a time to amplify autistic voices and reaffirm our commitment to inclusion and understanding. At Catalight, we’re reminded this month of our purpose: to give everyone, regardless of ability, the chance to choose their own path. Recent data from the CDC shows that 1 in 31 children in the U.S. is now diagnosed with autism. Behind that statistic are real people – each with unique circumstances, stories and dreams. These numbers underscore the growing need for compassionate, person-centered care and the importance of building systems that truly support the wellbeing of individuals and families navigating autism and other intellectual and developmental disabilities. While April highlights the importance of inclusion and access, our commitment to creating more welcoming communities and expanding care continues throughout the year. __New CDC Report Shows Higher Autism Rates and Highlights Complicated Challenges of Accurate Diagnosis A new CDC report finds autism rates rising to 1 in 31 U.S. children, but Doreen Samelson, E.D., stresses diagnosis remains inconsistent and complex – highlighting urgent needs for equity in care. Read More __Behavioral Health Business Awards Catalight Vice President of Clinical Operations with Frontline Honors Behavioral Health Business honored Jamie Rarrick, LMFT, with a 2024 Frontline Honors award for her transformative leadership at Catalight, where she has advanced collaborative, impactful care for individuals with autism and other developmental disabilities. Congratulations Jamie! __ Celebrating Autism Acceptance Month by Moving Toward Greater InclusionLindsay Sneed, Ph.D., shares why Autism Acceptance Month is about more than awareness – it’s about embracing neurodiversity, uplifting autistic voices and building a truly inclusive world for all. Honor AAM With Us __Quick Links Next ‘What’s Up With Catalight!’ Podcast Episode Available NOWPeter Hotez, M.D., Ph.D., joins the podcast, What’s Up With Catalight! to debunk the myth that vaccines cause autism – sharing science, personal stories and his mission to protect public health through science and research. Listen to the Podcast New Board Member Brings Financial Leadership and a Passion for Service Catalight is redefining healthcare with innovation, equity, and value-based care ensuring sustainable, personalized access for all. See how they’re transforming an industry in need of change. Tell Me More Elevate Your Impact Conference Now Available On-DemandCatalight’s “Elevate Your Impact” virtual conference is now available on-demand! Revisit powerful sessions focused on optimizing outcomes and advancing person-centered care—anytime, anywhere. Start watching today! Register and Watch [email protected]2730 Shadelands Drive, Walnut Creek, CA 94598©2025 Catalight. All rights reserved. Unsubscribe
article | October 20, 2026 6 Tips for Welcoming Autistic Trick-or-Treaters This Halloween Read article
case study | September 15, 2026 Catalight’s Postdoctoral Training Program Builds a Much Needed Pipeline for Autism and I/DD Evaluations Read case study
press release | September 1, 2026 Study: Catalight’s Family Wellbeing Scale Works Across Cultures for Families of People with Autism and Other Developmental Disabilities Read press release
case study | August 25, 2026 Maine’s RUBI Pilot Expands Access to Meaningful Autism Care Throughout the State Read case study
in the news | August 4, 2026 Future Leader: Brianna Fitchett, Vice President of Clinical Impact, Catalight Read News
in the news | July 22, 2026 Inside NSAP’s Effort to Create an All-Encompassing Autism Therapy Advocacy, Standards Organization Read News
press release | July 15, 2026 Catalight Academy Online Learning Platform Launches Courses for Parents of Autistic Youth Read press release
