








About The Stables Autism Program
Set in the Smoky Mountains of Sevierville, The Stables Autism Program provides specialized residential treatment for adults with autism spectrum disorder and neurodivergent tendencies. Residents live on a 25-acre farm property where animal-assisted therapy, evidence-based therapeutic approaches, and hands-on experiences support emotional regulation, social connection, and practical skill development. The intimate 9-bed setting allows for highly personalized care focused on building confidence, autonomy, and greater independence.
Build Skills for Greater Independence
Treatment incorporates the research-supported TEACCH framework, the proprietary Social Integration Model™, and individualized clinical care to strengthen social, emotional, and functional skills. Through clinical groups, one-on-one guidance, and meaningful responsibilities within the Helping Hands Work Program, residents practice daily living, communication, emotional regulation, and vocational skills. These experiences help participants build greater confidence and autonomy in everyday life.
Establish Stability in a Farm Environment
The intimate 9-bed residence and low staff-to-client ratio support individualized attention within a calm, structured environment. Through animal-assisted therapy, outdoor activities, and responsibilities such as feeding animals and maintaining therapeutic spaces, residents practice routine, accountability, communication, and empathy. The farm setting provides opportunities to apply these skills in meaningful, real-world situations.
Transition Securely into Independent Living
The Stables uses a bridge-to-independence model to help residents develop practical skills for everyday success. Through individualized guidance, clinical programming, and hands-on experiences, participants strengthen skills related to personal care, cooking, employment readiness, social connection, and independent living. These experiences help build the confidence, autonomy, and capabilities needed to navigate home, work, and community settings.

Center Overview




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Joint Commission Accredited
Licensed by Tennessee
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Meet Your Care Team

Brenda Keller
CEO
LPC

John Kupfner
Medical Director
MD

Deanna Purslow
Director of Clinical Operations
BCBA, LBA

Travis Houser
Director of Plant Operations
Your Care Options
Specializations
Who We Treat
Treatment Services
Approaches
Therapies
Languages
Conditions We Treat
Care Designed for Your Needs
Personal Amenities
Amenities
Learn More About the Center
Recognize Signs Of Autism Burnout
Understand how chronic masking and heavy sensory overload exhaust neurodivergent adults over time.
Improve Sleep Habits For Autistic Adults
Discover how structured evening routines and sensory adjustments promote better nighttime rest.
Manage Emotional Dysregulation Effectively
Learn practical strategies to navigate sensory overstimulation and intense stress responses.
Address Co-Occurring Mental Health Challenges
Identify the overlapping symptoms of autism and borderline personality disorder to ensure accurate care.
Further Research
What therapies does The Stables Autism Program offer?
The Stables offers individual and group therapy, animal-assisted therapy, and behavioral interventions informed by the research-supported TEACCH framework. Treatment also incorporates the proprietary Social Integration Model™ and hands-on life-skills and vocational activities through the Helping Hands Work Program.
Where is The Stables Autism Program located?
Sevierville, Tennessee, United States.
How long is treatment?
The typical length of stay is 30 days or more, but the duration of treatment varies based on each individual’s progress, clinical needs, and response to care. The treatment team works collaboratively to determine the appropriate length of stay, subject to insurance approval when applicable.
What levels of care does The Stables Autism Program offer?
The Stables Autism Program provides residential treatment for adults with autism spectrum disorder and neurodivergent tendencies in a structured, supportive setting.