Our Services

First Steps is a New York State approved Early Intervention agency and is contracted with Nassau County. We offer the following services:

• Evaluations
• Applied Behavioral Analysis
• Special Instruction
• Speech/Language Therapy
• Occupational Therapy
• Physical Therapy
• Service Coordination
• Family Counseling
• Family Training
• Psychological Services
• Social Work

All First Steps therapists are New York State approved as Early Intervention providers. Therapy is available in English, Spanish, Hebrew and other languages.

The Early Intervention Program is funded and regulated by the New York State Dept. of Health and, in Nassau County, by the Nassau County Dept. of Health. Parents may call the county at 516-227-8661 for information or to make referral for an evaluation.

Services to children approved by the Nassau County Department of Health Early Intervention program are provided at no direct cost to the family. The county may access your private health plan for reimbursement of Early Intervention services.

When Services Are Offered:

For those children eligible, Early Intervention services are identified in collaboration with the parent and are authorized by the county. Working with the county, a service plan is developed considering the individual needs of the child and family.

Flexible scheduling of evaluations and therapy services is available to accommodate the needs of working parents.

Who We Serve:

First Steps serves the needs of children ages birth to three who have or are suspected of having a developmental delay and/or disability. Areas of specialty include:

• Autism
• Genetic Disorders
• Speech/Language Delay
• Premature birth
• Feeding Concerns
• Neurological Disorders
• Behavioral Issues
• Newborns and infants

Eligibility for Early Intervention services can be determined only by a multi-disciplinary evaluation by state approved evaluators under contract with Nassau County.

Where We Provide Services:

First Steps works with your family and the Department of Health to deliver services in your child’s natural environment. All services are offered in your home or other community locations such as day care or nursery school. Parents are responsible for any tuition at child care or community locations.

Applied Behavioral Analysis Program

First Steps offers comprehensive, individualized ABA Programs for children diagnosed with Autistic Spectrum Disorders including Discrete Trials, Team Leading, Family Training and supplemental therapies including PROMPT. Our ABA Programs utilize a Developmental Framework to address your child’s needs in all areas of development. Programs are designed to encourage your child’s development in:

• Receptive and Expressive Language
• Social Skills
• Sensory Integration
• Organizational Skills
• Eye Contact
• Activity Transition
• Expanded food preferences
• Self-help skills
• Pre-academics