AZ Autism Sip & Support Meetup Group

Our Story

The Arizona Institute for Autism (AIA) was founded in 2018 by Clinical Director Rula Diab, M.Ed, BCBA, LBA. Ms. Diab is an industry expert with over 15 years of experience in the field of Special Education and Behavioral Analysis. As the founder and Clinical Director, Rula Diab, leads the Arizona Institute for Autism’s clinical efforts, community outreach, and managing network programming with current local businesses including Arizona State University and Phoenix School District. As a Special Education expert, Ms. Diab works with practitioners, academics, policymakers, teachers, families, and, most importantly, children with developmental disabilities throughout Arizona. After noticing gaps in the way practitioners applied ABA principles, Rula pioneered the AIA model of education, a model centered on recognizing each child’s individuality and dignity by cultivating their natural interests, preferences, and motivators. Education doesn’t have to be boring, and that should be the case for all children

Our Mission

At AIA, our mission is to improve special education and strengthen communities throughout Arizona. Every day, our team of highly trained clinicians, paraprofessionals, educators, and consultants works with one goal in mind: to support the behavioral and educational development of our 'kiddos' in every way possible.

We accomplish this by delivering clinical treatments, including ABA therapy services, and educational support to children with Autism Spectrum Disorder and other developmental disorders. And since every child is unique, we work with each family differently to understand their individual needs before we apply our insights through customized programs.

We also bring our 'can-do' mentality to the classroom. AIA works hand-in-hand with SPED teachers and school leaders to address their unique challenges and enhance the classroom environment for their students. Our staff believes that, with the right resources & support, every child can achieve their potential. So, every day, we do everything we can to support each one of our 'kiddos' in the pursuit of their individual potential.

​Our Commitment

• Integrity Integrity is the essence of who we are and at the foundation of everything we do. We approach our relationships with integrity and always adhere to the highest ethical principles.
• Empowerment A heart that serves and empowers others is essential to our success. We are passionate about motivating and encouraging our kiddos and learners for success.
• Excellence At AIA, we strive for excellence in everything we do. We go above and beyond in providing results to support our community partners, customers, kiddos, and everyone in the AIA family.