In recognition of Autism Awareness Month this April, Youth Haven is highlighting the specialized programs and services it provides to support children and teens with autism, many of whom are navigating a diagnosis for the first time alongside experiences of abuse, neglect, homelessness and trauma.

As Collier County’s only emergency and residential shelter for abused and neglected children and teens ages 6 to 21, Youth Haven consistently serves youth with a wide range of needs, including close to 20% of children currently diagnosed with autism, on its therapeutic campus. For many, Youth Haven plays a critical role in identifying developmental and behavioral needs and connecting them to essential resources that set the foundation for long-term success.

“At Youth Haven, we often meet children and teens at a pivotal moment in their lives, when their needs are first being fully understood,” said Linda Goldfield, CEO of Youth Haven. “For youth with autism, that means not only recognizing the diagnosis but putting the right supports in place to help them succeed academically, emotionally and socially.”

Through its comprehensive, trauma-informed approach, Youth Haven provides individualized care plans tailored to each child. For youth with autism, this includes coordinating with schools to establish Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) and 504 plans, offering academic support and tutoring, and helping children build the skills needed to manage emotions and navigate daily challenges.

On its 18.5-acre campus, Youth Haven integrates therapeutic services, education and life-skills development to ensure each child receives consistent, structured support. This may include one-on-one and group therapy, behavioral support strategies, structured routines, and sensory-informed environments designed to promote stability and reduce overwhelm.

Equally important is the role of trusted relationships. Youth Haven’s caregivers, clinicians and educators work closely with each child to build trust, reinforce positive behaviors and provide the consistency many have never experienced before.

“Many of the children in our care have gone without the support systems they need for far too long,” Goldfield added. “By identifying their unique needs and surrounding them with the right services, from academic interventions to emotional support, we help them gain confidence, develop coping skills and begin to see what’s possible for their future.”

Throughout April, Youth Haven encourages the community to deepen its understanding of autism and the importance of early identification, access to services and ongoing support for vulnerable youth.

Youth Haven remains committed to ensuring every child, especially those with complex needs, has access to the care, resources and opportunities they need to heal, grow and build a brighter future.

For more information about Youth Haven, visit youthhavenswfl.org or call 239-774-2904.

About Youth Haven

For more than five decades, Youth Haven has served as a sanctuary in Southwest Florida, providing home, hope and healing to children and teens experiencing abuse, neglect and oftentimes, homelessness. As a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization and Collier County’s only emergency and residential shelter for boys and girls ages 6 to 21, Youth Haven provides far more than shelter, delivering comprehensive programs including therapeutic services, trauma-informed holistic care, foster and transitional housing, and enrichment initiatives that help every child realize their potential and have a bright future. Youth Haven is accredited by the nationally recognized Council on Accreditation, licensed by the Florida Department of Children and Families, and is a partner of Children’s Network of Southwest Florida. Rated 4-star (excellent) by Charity Navigator and Platinum by Candid/Guidestar, Youth Haven is a beneficiary of the Naples Children Foundation. For more information or to schedule a tour, please visit youthhavenswfl.org or call 239-774-2904. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and LinkedIn.