New Jersey: "Growing crisis": 5% to 7% of kids with autism in some areas

Nov 12, 2025, My Central Jersey: Success on the Spectrum Expands to Meet New Jersey’s Growing Need for Autism Therapy

https://www.mycentraljersey.com/story/special/contributor-content/2025/11/12/success-on-the-spectrum-expands-to-meet-new-jerseys-growing-need-for-autism-therapy/87237107007

Families across New Jersey are facing a growing crisis: the shortage of high-quality Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy centers for children with autism. According to the CDC-backed Autism and Developmental Disabilities Monitoring (ADDM) Network, New Jersey has one of the highest autism rates in the nation — approximately 1 in 29 children (3.5%) are diagnosed on the spectrum.

[1] Some regional studies have even found prevalence as high as 5% to 7%, underscoring the urgent need for additional providers.

[2] Despite the growing demand, many families face waiting lists that average nearly six months before receiving services.

[3] In parts of the state, parents struggle to secure even a diagnostic evaluation due to limited availability.

[4] One organization is working to change that reality.

Success on the Spectrum (SOS) —  the nation’s first ABA therapy franchise — is bringing a new approach to the Garden State. Founded by entrepreneur and autism mom Nichole Daher, SOS was built on a simple yet revolutionary idea: that quality autism care can be expanded through franchising without compromising standards. . . .

As the demand for autism services continues to outpace supply, Success on the Spectrum's innovative model offers hope. By combining clinical excellence, family empathy, and the scalability of franchising, Daher's company is helping ensure that more children across New Jersey - and the nation - have access to the care they deserve.