MyPath is a DIRFloortime®-based therapeutic program offering the most current, research-backed, evidence-based developmental treatments for autism, used throughout the world.

MyPath is a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit organization dedicated to transforming the lives of individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) through individualized, evidence-based therapy.

Our mission is to eradicate the one-size-fits-all approach to treating children with neuro developmental differences — because your child deserves therapy that honors their brilliance, respects their autonomy, and nurtures their spirit.

At MyPath, we empower individuals with autism and their families through joyful, relationship-based therapy that celebrates neurodiversity, honors each person’s unique journey, and helps every individual reach their full potential.

Founded by two mothers who once navigated their autism journeys alone, MyPath is changing how we think about autism therapy. 

We presume competence.

We promote joy, connection, and individuality.

We offer therapy that honors each person’s unique strengths while compassionately addressing challenges.

We don’t put people in a box — because your child’s potential should never be contained by a diagnosis.

We see you. We understand you. We've been right where you are. There is a better path forward. 

Let us walk it with you.

My Path to

Success

MyPath helps individuals on their path to success, development, milestones, connection, happiness, and community.

MyPath was born from personal experience, professional expertise, and a shared mission to create real, meaningful change for individuals with autism and their families.

Here’s what we offer:

  • Developmental Therapy

    DIRFloortime® supports genuine communication, emotional growth, and the development of social and cognitive skills, while reducing the core challenges of autism. It preserves the child’s authentic personality, supports the entire family system, and creates lasting neural pathways through relationship-based engagement. This developmental approach promotes positive behaviors through natural development, meets each child at their current level and honors their individual differences, including sensory processing and unique learning styles.

    Our Services

  • Family Support & Resources

    We believe that healing happens within the whole family system. Parents aren't just observers — you're active participants in your child's therapy journey. Our community connects you with other families who truly understand those 3 AM worries and afternoon victories. Through educational resources, peer support, and expert guidance, we help you navigate this path with confidence, knowing you're never alone in this journey.

    Coaching and Training is available for parents and other caregivers in DIRFloortime® and Communication Support Therapies .

    Get Involved

  • Communication Support

    For too long, non-speaking and minimally speaking individuals with autism have been underestimated, and It is a misconception that these individuals have cognitive disabilities. In reality, many face motor challenges such as apraxia and dyspraxia, which impact their ability to speak, but not their intelligence or understanding.

    Using letter boards or an ipad for typing and spelling, your loved ones will find their voice. They will start to: express their thoughts and feelings, engage in real conversations and school lessons, and become more involved in family, school, and community life. As confidence, regulation and a sense of belonging/ well-being increase, frustration, negative behaviors and anxiety decrease.

    Our Services

  • Community & Advocacy

    True change requires both grassroots support and systemic transformation. We work with healthcare providers, educators, and policymakers to increase awareness and acceptance of neurodiversity and alternatives to ABA therapy. Through events and educational outreach, we're creating communities that understand, value, and celebrate neurodivergent individuals. Together, we're building a world where differences aren't just accommodated—they're embraced as essential parts of human diversity.

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helping real families like yours

  • Marcy has been an incredible support for our family. We started DIRFloortime® with her when my son was 6. She has a rare and deeply intuitive ability to connect with him in a way that feels natural and respectful- not activating or overwhelming him, so that he can engage. Her calm presence, thoughtful approach, and genuine belief in his capabilities shine through in every interaction. Marcy is consistently prompt, professional, and communicative, and she always takes the time to collaborate and share insights. She presumes competence in everything she does, and that mindset has made a real difference in how our son responds to others. We feel very fortunate to have met her!

    RG, Parent

  • Marcy’s DIRFloortime® made meaningful changes in our son’s interactions in just a short time. During their time together, he became much more comfortable around adults and his emotional regulation improved markedly. He also began initiating dramatic play, something he had never done before. I’m so happy we found Marcy at a critical time in our son’s development, and warmly recommend her to anyone experiencing similar challenges.

    KG, Parent

  • Marcy has a remarkable way of connecting with children. Using DIRFloortime®, she helped Ellie make amazing progress in her social interactions, communication, and development. Marcy’s vast experience in special education and warm, engaging approach have been a gift to both Ellie and our whole family.

    JM, Parent

  • When my daughter was diagnosed with autism at two and a half, she had no spoken language. A friend encouraged me to look into DIRFloortime®, and that’s how I found Marcy. I participated in the sessions and learned Floortime techniques firsthand. As a stay-at-home mom, I committed myself fully to using them with my daughter throughout each day. The progress was extraordinary. Within five months, my daughter’s language was nearly age-appropriate, and she no longer met the criteria for an autism diagnosis — only some developmental delays remained. After just eight months, she no longer qualified for special education services at all. Marcy truly changed the course of my daughter’s development. I cannot recommend her highly enough.

    CM, Parent

a revolutionary alternative

What makes DIRFloortime® different?

At MyPath, we practice and promote DIRFloortime®, a developmental, individualized, and relationship-based model.

Neuroscience-Based & Research-Backed

DIRFloortime® is backed by 50 years of research showing actual changes in brain development — and has more compelling research than any other treatment for autism

Foundational Development

Supports natural brain development through playful engagement and builds foundational capacities including emotional regulation, attention, communication, social skills, cognitive skills, and flexible thinking

Relationship Over Compliance

We build genuine connections through play, following your child's interests and celebrating their own way of being to honor their unique emotional world

Whole Family
Healing

Empowers parents and caregivers to be therapeutic partners and supports not just your child, but your entire family system — because this journey affects everyone

We see individuals with autism not as puzzles to be solved, but as full human beings with limitless potential when given the right support.

We don’t put kids in a box.

Founded by two mothers who once navigated their autism journeys alone — Allison Westrup Pianka, a Management Consultant & expert in Business Operations, and Marcy Freedman Nirschel, a highly acclaimed Developmental Therapist and expert in DIRFloortime® Therapy & Training — MyPath is changing how we think about autism therapy. We believe in limitless potential, not limitations. We see unique personalities, not diagnoses. We celebrate differences, not correct them.

The Lighthouse

When you need some light in the dark, we’re sharing the times we’ve been there, what helped us through, and the latest research and insights to keep you informed.

floating sailboat with single sail
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