October is Autism Awareness and Acceptance Month, a time to recognize the importance of understanding, inclusion and support for individuals living with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Niagara College’s Autism and Behavioural Sciences program (ABS) combines classroom learning with hands-on experience to prepare graduates to support individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and their families.
NC grad Jessica Smith-Morrison is the co-founder of Adaptive Trails Support Services.
For alumni Jessica Smith-Morrison (2020) and Kaitlyn Carruthers (2019), Niagara College’s Autism and Behavioural Sciences program has helped shape careers focused on supporting individuals and families. Smith-Morrison is the co-founder and Co-Executive Director of Adaptive Trails Support Services, a Niagara-based nonprofit addressing gaps in programming for adults with developmental disabilities, while Carruthers is the Clinical Manager at New Leaf Autism & ABA, where she supports learners, families and staff and helps families navigate services and resources.
Smith-Morrison began her journey at NC in the Educational Assistant – Adult Supports program before enrolling in the ABS program. After gaining experience supporting individuals on the autism spectrum in school and recreational settings, she returned to NC to deepen her knowledge of autism services and supports. Through her work, she recognized the need for more adult programming as families shared concerns about finding appropriate supports for loved ones transitioning out of high school. These experiences helped inspire Adaptive Trails, where participants can build relationships, explore new activities and find a sense of belonging.
For Carruthers, a passion for working with children and supporting those with diverse needs led her to the program after completing her undergraduate degree at Brock University. A placement at New Leaf became a turning point, giving her the opportunity to learn from staff, ask questions and explore her interests in the field.
NC grad Kaitlyn Carruthers, Clinical Manager at New Leaf Autism & ABA.
“What started as a student placement turned into a career where I’ve continued to grow both personally and professionally,” said Carruthers. “Over the past seven and a half years at New Leaf, countless moments have reminded me why I chose this field. Whether it’s seeing a learner achieve a goal they’ve been working towards for months, celebrating a milestone with a family or reflecting on the relationships I’ve built along the way, these experiences continue to reinforce why I love what I do.”
NC’s one-year Autism and Behavioural Sciences graduate certificate program introduces students to the principles of Applied Behaviour Analysis and teaches them to develop skill-building programs and behaviour intervention plans. Students also gain practical experience through 350 placement hours in schools and therapeutic settings, with opportunities to participate in special initiatives alongside community partners.
“We want our students to graduate with the knowledge, practical skills and confidence to make a meaningful difference in the lives of individuals with autism and other developmental disabilities,” said Taryn Walsh, Program Coordinator and Professor. “Seeing graduates like Jessica and Kaitlyn apply their learning to support individuals and families in our community demonstrates the impact this program can have.”
That learning continues to shape both graduates’ work today. At Adaptive Trails, Smith-Morrison oversees the Hand-in-Hand Day Program, which operates five days a week and offers recreational, social and skill-building opportunities for adults with developmental disabilities, including autism, ADHD and Down syndrome. She develops programming that can be adapted to participants’ needs, using visual supports, adaptive supplies and sensory resources to encourage participation and create a welcoming environment.
Jessica Smith-Morrison (right) and Allyesa Stewart, Co-Founders of Adaptive Trails.
“One of the biggest takeaways from my education was learning the importance of adapting activities and environments to meet individual needs,” said Smith-Morrison. “I apply that knowledge every day at Adaptive Trails, whether it’s modifying activities to make them more accessible, incorporating visual or sensory supports, or finding new ways for participants to engage in programming. My education also reinforced the importance of continually learning from the individuals I support, their families and other professionals in the field.”
At New Leaf, Carruthers’ responsibilities have evolved from direct support to include overseeing staff, managing centre operations and helping families navigate services and funding through the Ontario Autism Program. She emphasizes that progress looks different for every child and family, whether it involves developing new skills, gaining independence or accessing the right supports.
“Every child has their own personality, interests, strengths and challenges, and they deserve the same opportunities, respect and understanding as any other child. At the end of the day, kids are still just kids, and having a diagnosis or different support needs doesn’t change that,” she said. “What makes this field so meaningful is seeing how even the smallest milestones or accomplishments can make a significant difference in a learner’s life and bring so much joy to their families.”
For students considering a career in autism and behavioural sciences, both alumni highlight the value of hands-on experience, building relationships and a commitment to lifelong learning.
“Working in this field can be an incredibly impactful experience. You become part of a community of individuals, families, caregivers and professionals who are all working toward finding ways to best support individuals with different needs,” said Smith-Morrison.
Carruthers agrees that while the work can be challenging, the opportunity to make a difference in the lives of learners and their families makes it worthwhile.
“It’s not always an easy career, but it is an incredibly rewarding one. The impact you can have on a learner and their family is something that makes the challenging days worthwhile,” she said.
For more information about NC’s Autism and Behavioural Sciences program, please visit the program webpage.
