Aria Brien
Published: Friday, October 25, 2024
When Aria Brien was three, she was diagnosed with autism. “We sought therapy for her early on. We got her into every early intervention possible,” shared her mother, Chelsey.
She was able to be put on a waiting list for services through the Anne Carlsen Center. When she finally got in, they had to be creative with how to get her to appointments since they live in Belcourt, and her treatment was in Minot.
Three times a week, Chelsey and Aria travel three hours a day to and from Minot. Aria’s schedule includes speech therapy, behavioral therapy and occupational therapy. “Our school system doesn’t have the resources to care for special needs kids, so her treatment also includes educational things depending on her goals. It’s been so good for her.”
Knowing the high costs of travel can be a burden on a family, the folks at the Anne Carlsen Center recommended NDAD to their family. “I was denied everything I had applied for before NDAD. Now, with the support of NDAD over the past year, the costs of our travel have been less stressful and we can focus on what Aria needs.”
In December, Aria turns 10. Her mom believes therapy has made such a positive impact in Aria’s life since she started three years ago and is appreciative of the help from NDAD. “She’s grown tremendously. We make sure she gets to her appointments no matter what,” tells Chelsey. “This is such a big help for her. It really improves her quality of life.”
Chelsey says anyone who might need the help should consider applying for financial assistance with NDAD. “People should just apply. Even if you feel like you’ve exhausted your other options, NDAD is a great option to try.”