News

Features in the Media

Press release |

Large-Scale Study Finds Autistic Youth Far More Likely to Be Hospitalized for Mental Health Conditions

After analyzing over 1.2 million hospital admissions, Catalight’s Ben Pfingston and Lindsey Sneed, Ph.D., BCBA, found autistic youth are hospitalized for mental health issues at higher rates than non-autistic peers – often due to delayed diagnosis and limited support. Highlighting the urgent need for autism-informed care, Pfingston and Dr. Sneed call for earlier intervention and clinician training to better address the unique needs of autistic children before crises arise.

In the news |

Future Leader: Lindsey Sneed, Vice President of Clinical Excellence, Catalight

Behavioral Health Business has named Lindsey Sneed, Ph.D., BCBA-D, Vice President of Clinical Excellence at Catalight, a 2025 Future Leader for her visionary leadership in advancing person-centered behavioral health care. Lindsey’s commitment to research innovation and clinical excellence has transformed treatment for individuals with autism and developmental disabilities.

In the news |

People On The Move in San Francisco

With more than 20 years of global experience driving growth, innovation, and organizational impact, Rodrigo Mahs joins Catalight as Executive Vice President of Growth & Innovation. In this role, he will lead initiatives to broaden the organization’s reach and advance its mission in behavioral health.

In the news |

Rad N’ Bad Podcast: The Truth About Parent-Mediated Intervention

Catalight Vice President of Clinical Excellence Lindsey Sneed, Ph.D., appeared on the Rad N’ Bad podcast to discuss resistance to parent-mediated interventions. She contends that the evolved parent-mediated form of ABA expands access to care and better supports wellbeing for many families.

In the news |

Becoming the Person I Once Needed

Diagnosed with autism at 11, Ben Pfingston, senior research and data analyst at Catalight, reflects on how internalized stigma shaped his life. Through psychology and autism research, he found healing and purpose – to be who he needed and help others feel seen and valued.

In the news |

Using Common Sense to Weigh the Pros and Cons of Vaccination

In an op-ed about how vaccine benefits far outweigh perceived risks, Col. Eric Flake, M.D., interviews Catalight Chief Clinical Officer Doreen Samelson, Ed.D. – who shares the personal story of her son’s Rubella-related disabilities to illustrate the cost of skipping vaccines.

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