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For many parents, traveling to California for their child’s autism treatment can feel overwhelming at first.
There’s the logistics, the cost, the time away from home and the emotional weight of carrying hope after years of searching for answers.
But something unexpected often happens once families arrive.
Instead of the trip feeling purely medical, many families discover that this time becomes a rare opportunity to slow down, reconnect and even create meaningful memories together—often alongside other families walking the same path.
Consider Sharing the Journey With Another Family
Families are always welcome to complete treatment on their own, and many do.
At times, families choose to come together with another family they know—often someone who is walking a similar path with a child on the spectrum.
When that happens, something special tends to unfold. It becomes more than just treatment. It becomes a shared healing experience.
Parents support one another. Children feel less alone. And families often leave with bonds that last well beyond their time at the clinic—while also reducing overall costs in the process.
They share the clinic’s optional housing (if available). Or share an air b n b close to the clinic. Some parents even choose to get treatments themselves (for their own health issues)- all during the same time and trip.
One of the most impactful things we’ve observed is families choosing to travel together or share lodging with another family in treatment.
By doing so, families are able to:
- Split travel and lodging costs
- Share a family vacation experience and cost while accomplishing something life-changing for both
- Share responsibilities and daily routines
- Build memories and connection with people who truly understand
What often starts as a practical decision quickly becomes a source of emotional support.
Parents who arrive as strangers leave as friends.
Built-In Support (and Real Breaks)
Many parents of children with autism haven’t had a true break in years.
When families travel together, something rare becomes possible:
- Parents take turns watching the kids
- One family steps in while another rests or does something relaxing
- Caregivers finally get moments to recharge
Some parents use this time to take a quiet walk, sit at the beach, enjoy a meal uninterrupted or simply rest—often for the first time in a very long time.
These breaks may seem small, but they are deeply restorative for a family
Making It a True Family Experience
Southern California offers families the chance to turn a treatment trip into a fun shared experience for families.
Families often plan light outings such as:
- A visit to Disneyland Resort or Knott’s Berry Farm, especially for siblings
- A day trip to Universal Studios Hollywood
- Relaxing beach time at Crystal Cove State Park
- Shopping or strolling at South Coast Plaza
- Exploring Beverly Hills, even if just for an afternoon
These experiences don’t have to be elaborate. Often it’s the shared meals, walks, and conversations that parents remember most.
Healing Isn’t Just for the Child
While the primary purpose of the trip is participating in the ASD treatment protocol explained by our doctors, many parents discover something unexpected once they arrive.
They begin healing too.
Being surrounded by other parents who understand the daily challenges—without explanation or judgment—creates emotional relief. Conversations flow more easily. Laughter returns. Parents feel understood instead of isolated.
For once, they’re not carrying everything alone.
In the video below, Dr. Teitelbaum explains the NAET-based autism treatment approach and discusses observed changes in children before and after care. The video is shared for educational purposes to help families better understand how this treatment framework is applied and what the clinical process may involve.
A Different Way to Experience Treatment
What begins as a medical journey often becomes something much more:
- A shared experience
- A supportive village
- A reminder that life doesn’t have to be paused while seeking help
For many families, their trip to California becomes a turning point—not just in their child’s progress, but in how they experience hope, rest, and connection as a family.
And for parents who have carried so much for so long, that matters more than words can fully express.
