Aerial view of the Stables Autism Program grounds and farm during fall
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About Us

At The Stables, we recognize that not all great minds think alike. To help clients reach their full potential, we offer a wide range of individualized programming tailored to their pace and needs. Our program serves as a bridge to independence — empowering individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and neurodivergent tendencies to build the skills, confidence, and self-direction needed for long-term success, while comfortably exploring the possibilities of a more independent, engaged life.

Located on a serene 25-acre property, our home-like 9-bed facility provides a low staff-to-client ratio, offering personalized attention and support. The Stables creates a realistic environment that mirrors daily challenges individuals experience at home, school, or the workplace, offering authentic, real-life experiences to support new learning and growth.

What we treat

Autism + neurodivergent tendencies

Who we treat

Adults (ages 18+) of all genders

Payment options

Private pay only

Medicare/Medicaid?

Not accepted

Our Treatment Approach

At The Stables Autism Program, we take a personalized and adaptive approach to autism treatment, ensuring that each client receives the support they need to thrive. Our programming integrates evidence-based practices to meet clients where they are, helping them build confidence, coping strategies, and social and life skills.

Our Program

It can be challenging to find a treatment center specifically tailored for adults with autism and neurodivergent tendencies. At The Stables, our intimate setting — free from competing clinical demands — supports truly individualized programming. Led by a highly skilled team, we collaborate with each client and their loved ones to develop a personalized treatment plan rooted in evidence-based autism therapies and our Social Integration Model™. 

Every aspect of our program is thoughtfully structured to support independence readiness through real-world experiences that build the skills, confidence, and autonomy needed to thrive in daily living, working, and social environments.

How We Treat

Treatment Groups

The Stables

Helping Hands Work Program

At The Stables Autism Program, we take a personalized and adaptive approach to autism treatment, ensuring that each client receives the support they need to thrive. Our programming integrates evidence-based practices to meet clients where they are, helping them build confidence, coping strategies, and social and life skills.

Clients earn progress badges by completing daily tasks such as feeding animals, cleaning enclosures, and maintaining therapy spaces, which reinforces routine, accountability, and a strong work ethic.

This hands-on experience builds confidence, essential life skills, and a sense of purpose, laying the groundwork for greater independence and future employment opportunities.

Skillet the Cow at The Stables

Behavioral Interventions

We take a strength-based approach that empowers clients to make informed choices in a safe and supportive environment. This allows them to learn from natural consequences and develop self-awareness in real-time.

Aligned with the TEACCH method, our team observes behaviors as they occur and collaborates to develop individualized interventions, responding in the moment to support growth, regulation, and skill development.

Life Skills & Independence

Building essential life skills is a core part of our program, supporting each client’s path toward greater independence and confidence.

Through one-on-one guidance, our team helps clients develop practical tools for everyday success, encompassing a range of skills from hygiene and mealtime etiquette to cooking, employment readiness, and independent living.

These experiences form the foundation of our bridge-to-independence model, preparing clients for a smooth and supported transition into adulthood and daily life.

The Stables Difference

The Social Integration Model™

As the heart of our programming, this proprietary treatment model focuses on real-life situations, ensuring vital social and life skills are learned and practiced under professional guidance. 

Evidence-Based Treatment

Our treatment approach is firmly grounded in evidence-based therapies and individualized treatment plans tailored to each client's specific needs. Our outcomes are a testament to the impact of our methods.

Animal-Assisted Therapy

As part of our philosophy of healing and skill-building, The Stables offers animal-assisted therapy sessions and evidence-based, nature-centered outdoor experiences.

Joint Commission Gold Seal Logo

The Stables is proudly certified by The Joint Commission, reflecting our dedication to delivering high-quality client care and maintaining a culture of clinical excellence.

"My son was in crisis and a bad headspace — we were afraid for his well-being. The Stables’ team and the nurturing, peaceful environment enabled him to stabilize and recharge. Individual therapy was extremely helpful, and the therapist was spot on in identifying my son’s strengths and weaknesses."
Grateful Parent
The Stables

Our Facility

Explore Our Campus

Paying for Care

Payment Options

The Stables Autism Program operates on a private pay basis only. For questions about payment or admissions, please get in touch with our admissions team at 256.240.0067.

Our Leadership

Meet Our Team

The Stables is led by a team of dedicated, experienced professionals committed to providing high-quality care. Our ASD treatment model is designed to offer practical, real-time life strategies, empowering our clients to attain greater independence in their lives.

Brenda Keller, CEO, Smoky Mountain Lodge and the Stables Autism Program

Brenda Keller

LPC

Chief Executive Officer

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John Kupfner, MD

Medical Director

Travis Houser

Travis Houser

Director of Plant Operations

Cheryl Jones - Therapist - The Stables

Cheryl Brown

Lead Therapist

Shelby Kleiner - SML The Stables

Shelby Kleiner

Therapist

A Supportive Setting for Lasting Growth

At The Stables Autism Program, our tranquil, home-like setting helps adults with autism and neurodivergent tendencies build independence and life skills in a real-world environment. Nestled on 25 acres in the Great Smoky Mountains, our space fosters emotional regulation, social connection, and confidence in daily routines. This supportive atmosphere empowers individuals to transition smoothly into independent living.

testimonials

Voices from Our Community

"A family member was a client at The Stables in the summer of 2023. He received professional and compassionate care during his stay. The environment at The Stables is skillfully designed to promote healing. The staff exhibited genuine concern for all clients in the program. Client-to-staff ratios are exceptional, providing plenty of informal counseling and guidance opportunities. The bucolic country setting with horses, goats, and other assorted animals also promotes recovery and growth. There were plenty of opportunities for engaging in off-site activities, as well. Our family is eternally grateful that we entrusted the care of our loved one to the staff at The Stables."
Grateful Parent
The Stables Autism Program

Start healing at The Stables.

Our admissions experts are here to answer your questions and help you begin the process.

Contact us today at 256.240.0067 or complete our form to learn how we can support your journey to recovery.

Your privacy is our priority. All communication is completely confidential.