News | Autism FIRST

Welcome to the Autism FIRST Newsroom

At Autism FIRST, we believe in transparency, growth, and collaboration. This page is where we share important news and updates—from clinic expansions and partnerships to staff spotlights and special events. Stay connected with us as we continue to grow, serve, and innovate for the autism community across Virginia.

Recent News

📌 October 26, 2025 – Autism FIRST Joins Sprout 5K & 1K Fun Run

Autism FIRST is proud to announce our participation in the upcoming Sprout 5K & 1K Fun Run in Ashburn, VA. This inclusive event celebrates ability, movement, and community connection, aligning with our mission of providing compassionate, evidence-based support for families across Virginia.

Our staff members have already registered, and we invite families, friends, and community supporters to join us by selecting “Team Autism FIRST” during registration. Whether you run, walk, or cheer, your support helps raise awareness and strengthen the autism community.

🗓 Date: October 26, 2025
📍 Location: Ashburn, VA
🔗 Register: Sprout 5K & 1K Fun Run

Together, let’s make every step count toward inclusion and support.

📌 October 6, 2025 – Autism FIRST Leader to Present at Virginia Head Start Association Health & Family Institute 2025

We’re proud to share that Jenny Argueta, Chief Clinical Officer at Family Insight, will be a featured speaker at the Virginia Head Start Association Health & Family Institute 2025.

📅 Date: Monday, October 6, 2025
🕑 Time: 2:30 PM
📍 Location: Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden, 1800 Lakeside Ave, Henrico, VA

Jenny’s workshop, “Autism: Early Identification & Intervention,” will focus on recognizing early signs and symptoms of autism, how families and providers can access services, and the importance of collaboration with service providers.

This opportunity highlights our organization’s commitment to supporting families and providers across Virginia with evidence-based knowledge and care. We are honored to have Jenny represent both Autism FIRST and Family Insight P.C. at this important event.

Stay tuned for more updates as we continue to expand visibility and strengthen partnerships across the Commonwealth.

📌 October 1, 2025 – Autism FIRST Hosts Virtual Day Program Open House

Autism FIRST is excited to announce a Virtual Day Program Informational Open House happening on Tuesday, October 1, 2025. Families across Virginia are invited to join us online to learn more about our Steps Ahead Day Program, designed for children ages 2–6.

📅 Event Details

  • Date: October 1, 2025

  • Sessions: 12:00 PM or 7:00 PM

  • Location: Online via Microsoft Teams

  • Who should attend: Parents, caregivers, and professionals interested in early intervention and day program services across all Autism F.I.R.S.T. locations

Save Your Spot Today

Registration is now open, and spots are limited.
👉 Save Your Spot for the Open House »

📌 September 24, 2025 – Autism FIRST Statement on Evidence-Based Care

At Autism FIRST, our focus has always been, and will remain, on providing the highest quality, evidence-based treatment for children with autism and their families.
Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) is the gold standard of care for individuals with autism. Backed by decades of research, ABA helps children build skills, reduce barriers, and thrive in daily life. While public conversations about autism may sometimes create confusion or concern, we remain committed to clarity: autism is a complex neurodevelopmental condition, and the most effective way we can serve families is through proven, research-supported therapy.
Our mission is to support families by providing guidance, compassion, and services grounded in evidence-based practices. Every child deserves access to the resources that can help them grow, and every parent should feel confident that their child’s care is informed by research and best practices.
– Autism F.I.R.S.T.

📌 September 2, 2025 – Autism FIRST Launches Elementary Social Skills Group in Chantilly

Our new 12-week Social Skills Group (Grades 1–5) begins September 2 at the Chantilly Clinic! Designed to build communication, friendship, and problem-solving skills in a supportive environment.

See how your child can grow with us ➝

 📌 July 16–17, 2025 – Autism FIRST Hosts Day Program Open House in Herndon and Chantilly

Autism FIRST invites families, caregivers, and community members to attend our Day Program Open House events this July!

🔹 Herndon Clinic – Wednesday, July 16, 2025 from 5-7 PM
🔹 Chantilly Clinic – Thursday, July 17, 2025 from 5-7 PM

Come meet our team, tour our facilities, and learn more about how our day programs support individuals with autism through personalized care, skill-building, and compassionate guidance. Whether you’re new to Autism FIRST or already part of our community, we welcome you to explore what makes our programs exceptional.

📌 June 25, 2025 – Whitecap Care Expands Autism Services with Family Insight Acquisition

Whitecap Care and Autism FIRST are proud to announce the acquisition of Family Insight, P.C., expanding access to autism and outpatient care across Virginia.

🔗 Read Full Press Release