The Stables Autism Program

Autism
Residential
5.0
(11)
Private Pay

Set in the Smoky Mountains of Sevierville, The Stables Autism Program serves adults with autism spectrum disorder and neurodivergent tendencies. Residents live on a 25-acre farm property designed to reduce sensory overload while teaching real-world skills. This structured setting ensures that every person gets direct attention to master daily routines, gain true independence, and prepare for steady, long-term employment.

Master Skills for Increased Independence

The daily schedule combines the structured TEACCH framework with the proprietary Social Integration Model™ to target functional growth. Participants build essential life habits during clinical groups and hands-on milestones within the Helping Hands Work Program. This dual approach teaches residents to manage their behavior, communicate clearly, and take charge of their daily lives.

Establish Stability in a Farm Environment

Living in an intimate 9-bed house successfully prevents the sensory overload often caused by large groups. A very low staff ratio guarantees constant personal attention across the 25-acre working farm. Residents spend their days exploring outdoor spaces, feeding live animals, and joining small group activities to build real-world comfort in a safe, predictable environment.

Transition Securely into Independent Living

A structured transition plan prepares residents to move back into the community with complete confidence. Case managers actively coordinate with local businesses and schools to secure employment placements, volunteer roles, or higher education enrollment. Participants also graduate to managing off-site apartments, ensuring they can handle real-world housing before completing the program.


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AT A GLANCE

Center Overview

Location
1222 Goose Gap Rd., Sevierville, TN 37876 View Map
Primary Focus
You receive personalized treatment for autism spectrum disorder at this ...
Typical Program Length
30 days
Conditions We Treat
Anxiety, Depression
Substance Use We Treat
Co-Occurring Disorders
Lower Stress with Farm Interactions
Lower Stress with Farm Interactions
Residents work closely with animals every day to build emotional regulation and social connection. Feeding and caring for these animals offers a grounding routine that lowers stress. This hands-on farm work also teaches personal accountability and develops relationship skills that translate directly into better communication with other people.
Thrive with Predictable Schedules
Thrive with Predictable Schedules
Staff rely on the TEACCH method to organize daily life around visual learning and predictable routines. This framework avoids confusion by clearly showing expectations for every single activity. Residents do well because they always know what comes next, which lowers stress and lets them focus on learning new skills.
Develop a Strong Work Ethic
Develop a Strong Work Ethic
The Helping Hands Work Program builds real-world skills through daily responsibilities. Residents earn progress badges by feeding animals, cleaning enclosures, and maintaining therapy spaces. This system reinforces routine and a strong work ethic, which are the same qualities required for long-term employment readiness and successful, independent adult living.
Gain Self-Sufficiency for Independence
Gain Self-Sufficiency for Independence
The daily curriculum builds executive functioning through ordinary household habits. Residents practice meal preparation, laundry, and personal hygiene routines while learning to track basic spending. Mastering these everyday chores ensures that adults gain the practical skills needed to run their own homes safely.

Recovery.com Verified Listing

Recovery.com verified that the name, location, contact information and license to operate for this treatment provider are valid and up-to-date.

Joint Commission Accredited

Joint Commission Accredited

Licensed by Tennessee

Licensed by Tennessee

Recovery.com is an independent, third-party mental health resource. Verification does not imply endorsement and does not guarantee the quality of treatment services.

Staff

Meet Your Care Team

Brenda Keller

Brenda Keller

CEO

LPC

John Kupfner

John Kupfner

Medical Director

MD

Deanna Purslow

Deanna Purslow

Director of Clinical Operations

BCBA, LBA

Travis Houser

Travis Houser

Director of Plant Operations

Treatment

Your Care Options

Specializations

Animal Therapy
Neurodivergent

Who We Treat

Men
Women
Men and Women
Neurodivergent

Treatment Services

Residential

Approaches

Evidence-Based
Experiential
Family Involvement
Non 12 Step

Therapies

1-on-1 Counseling
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)
Animal Therapy
Art Therapy
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
Dialectical Behavior Therapy
Experiential Therapy
Family Therapy
Group Therapy

Languages

English

Conditions We Treat

Anxiety
Depression

Substances We Treat

Co-Occurring Disorders
Experience

Care Designed for Your Needs

Personal Amenities

Access to Nature
Private or Shared Rooms

Amenities

Access to Nature
Outdoor Lounge

Activities

Horseback Riding

Off-Site Activities

Biking
Hiking
Fishing
Frequently Asked Questions

Further Research

The following therapies are included: group therapy, 1-on-1 counseling and more.
Sevierville, Tennessee, United States.
The typical length is 30 days.
The Stables Autism Program provides residential and more.