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Service area

ABA Therapy in Lake Alfred, FL

MCDS provides culturally responsive, BCBA-supervised ABA therapy for children and families in Lake Alfred, Polk County.

ABA therapy in Lake Alfred

Located in the heart of Polk County, Lake Alfred is a city with a rich history tied to Florida's growth. Part of the Lakeland-Winter Haven Metropolitan Statistical Area, Lake Alfred has evolved from a railroad stop with names like Fargo and Bartow Junction into a community of over 6,300 residents. Incorporated in 1915, the city's identity is deeply connected to the citrus industry, highlighted by the establishment of the University of Florida's Citrus Experiment Station in 1917, now known as the UF/IFAS Citrus Research and Education Center. This long-standing focus on research and improvement reflects a community dedicated to growth and development.

For families in Lake Alfred, that spirit of dedicated growth is essential when seeking support for children with autism. Multicultural Development Services Center (MCDS) understands that families need accessible and personalized care that fits into their lives. We provide Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy directly in your home, at your child's school, or through telehealth appointments. This approach eliminates the need for frequent travel to larger urban centers, allowing your child to learn and develop skills in the familiar and comfortable environment of their own community.

Whether your family life revolves around the local schools or enjoying the natural beauty of the area's many lakes, our ABA services are designed to integrate seamlessly. Our Board Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBAs) collaborate with families to create strategies that support daily routines and participation in community life. Under the guidance of our leadership, including Executive Director Damaris Baez, MCDS is committed to providing evidence-based, compassionate support that respects the unique needs of each child and family. We work hand-in-hand with parents and caregivers in Lake Alfred to help children build functional communication, social, and adaptive living skills.

About Lake Alfred

Population
6374 (2020)
Local landmarks
UF/IFAS Citrus Research and Education Center · Lake Alfred (lake) · Lake Alfred City Hall · Downtown Water Tower

Services available in Lake Alfred

Depending on assessment and authorization, MCDS may deliver the following services to Lake Alfred families:

  • ABA TherapyIndividualized applied behavior analysis therapy for children, informed by more than two decades of behavioral-services experience in South Florida.
  • In-Home ABA TherapyABA therapy delivered where children learn best — inside their home and daily routines.
  • School-Based ABA SupportCollaborative behavioral support that partners with schools and educational teams when clinically appropriate.
  • Community-Based ABA TherapyABA therapy in real community settings so children can practice skills where they use them.
  • Early InterventionIndividualized early intervention for young children showing signs of developmental or behavioral needs.
  • Parent and Caregiver TrainingStructured coaching that equips caregivers to support their child throughout everyday routines.

Insurance for Lake Alfred families

MCDS works with eligible plans from Aetna, Cigna, Florida Blue, UnitedHealthcare, and TRICARE, plus qualifying Florida Medicaid fee-for-service coverage. Verify your specific plan on the benefits verification page.

Questions from Lake Alfred families

Does MCDS provide ABA therapy for families living in Lake Alfred?
Yes, MCDS offers in-home, school-based, and telehealth ABA therapy services to children and families residing in Lake Alfred and throughout Polk County.
My child's school is near the UF/IFAS Citrus Research and Education Center. Can you provide services there?
Yes, our therapists can provide school-based ABA services in Lake Alfred, pending approval from the school and district. We focus on collaborating with your child's educational team to support their progress in the school environment.
How does MCDS tailor its services to a smaller city like Lake Alfred?
We bring our ABA therapy services directly to you. By offering in-home and community-based support, we ensure that families in communities like Lake Alfred have access to care without the stress of regular travel to a clinic.

Get in touch

To find out whether MCDS currently has provider availability in Lake Alfred, call 954-302-8758 or request a call.

DB
Reviewed by Damaris Baez, Executive Director
Executive Director, Multicultural Development Services Center
Last reviewed

This page describes MCDS's stated service area for Lake Alfred. It does not represent a physical clinic location. Availability of a specific clinician, schedule, service, or service setting may vary based on location, staffing, clinical needs, insurance authorization, and current capacity.