Cortica Inc., an autism care provider known for its integrated, holistic approach to treatment, has made a major move to expand its reach by opening new centers in North Carolina. With a multifaceted treatment model that goes beyond the traditional focus on Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), Cortica aims to provide comprehensive, personalized care that addresses all aspects of a child’s development. The new locations in Cary, North Carolina, and Charlotte, set to open on November 11, represent the company’s continued growth after a successful Series D fundraising round that raised $115 million in 2023.
A Holistic Approach to Autism Treatment
Cortica has differentiated itself from other autism care providers through its unique approach to treatment. Rather than focusing exclusively on the time-intensive application of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), Cortica’s model incorporates a broad range of specialists and therapies to treat the whole child. This holistic approach includes visits with neurophysiologists, geneticists, gastroenterologists, and nutritionists, all working together to develop a comprehensive treatment plan.
The emphasis on integrated care reflects a growing understanding in the autism community that no single treatment can address the full spectrum of needs for children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). By offering a variety of specialists under one roof, Cortica provides families with a convenient and streamlined care model, saving time and ensuring that all aspects of a child’s health are considered.
According to the company, this holistic model helps Cortica’s patients achieve better long-term outcomes by addressing underlying medical issues that may contribute to or exacerbate autism symptoms, such as gastrointestinal problems or sensory sensitivities. This approach positions Cortica as a leader in autism care, offering a more well-rounded and tailored solution than traditional providers who focus primarily on ABA.
Expanding Into North Carolina: A Strategic Move to Meet Growing Demand
The new centers in North Carolina will be a game-changer for families in the region, many of whom have been waiting months for diagnostic services and early intervention treatments. Autism diagnoses and interventions often come with long wait times—sometimes as much as 12 to 18 months in certain areas of the U.S.—which can delay critical treatment during the early stages of development. The Cary and Charlotte locations are set to alleviate these wait times and provide immediate, comprehensive support for children in need.
Dr. Rachel Hughes, a board-certified pediatrician who previously worked at Duke University’s Children’s Hospital, will lead the Cary location. Dr. Margaret Bryan-Ellis, who was the chief resident at Wake Forest Baptist Health, will lead the Charlotte office. Both are highly qualified medical professionals with deep ties to North Carolina’s medical community, ensuring that Cortica’s North Carolina expansion is in capable hands.
These new locations will be staffed with skilled professionals, including eight employees in Cary and six in Charlotte, ensuring that families will receive the high-quality care they expect from a leading autism treatment provider.
Why the Expansion Matters: A New Approach to Autism Care in North Carolina
The demand for autism care has skyrocketed in recent years, with many families struggling to access services in a timely and effective manner. According to CEO Neil Hattangadi, “We’re able to provide immediate, comprehensive support for families and prevent early intervention delays.” By opening centers in Cary and Charlotte, Cortica aims to address a significant gap in autism services in North Carolina, a state where access to timely, integrated care has historically been limited.
Hattangadi’s statement reflects the growing urgency of addressing delays in autism care. Early intervention has been shown to have a profound impact on the development and quality of life for children with autism. However, delays in receiving diagnostic services and treatment can undermine these benefits. Cortica’s ability to provide immediate, integrated care is essential in ensuring that children get the support they need during critical developmental windows.
The company’s integrated care model also positions it as a leader in a healthcare landscape that is increasingly focused on whole-person care. As Hattangadi noted during a panel discussion at the Behavioral Health Business Autism & Addiction Treatment Forum, “All payers are talking about whole person care.” This approach, which emphasizes collaboration between specialists from different fields, ensures that children with autism receive care that is as comprehensive as their needs.
A Look at Cortica’s Growth and Strategic Vision
Cortica’s growth is a reflection of the increasing demand for high-quality autism services and the success of its integrated care model. Since its founding 10 years ago, the company has steadily expanded its presence across the United States. Headquartered in San Diego, Cortica now operates 25 care centers, with a significant presence in Southern California, Massachusetts, and the Chicago metropolitan area. The company’s expansion into North Carolina marks its first major expansion since raising $115 million in its Series D round, which included investors like CVS Health Ventures.
The funding from the Series D round has enabled Cortica to continue its growth trajectory and increase its impact on the autism care sector. The company’s expansion into new markets, such as North Carolina, demonstrates its commitment to meeting the increasing demand for autism services and its belief in the effectiveness of its holistic care model.
Cortica’s business model also reflects a broader trend in healthcare, particularly behavioral health, toward greater integration of services and the emphasis on the whole child approach. As Hattangadi pointed out, the goal is to move away from the traditional fragmented and siloed care model and transition toward a more cohesive and collaborative model. By fostering collaboration between specialists and focusing on all aspects of a child’s health, Cortica is helping to redefine what autism care looks like.
The Importance of Integrated Care for Families
For families dealing with the challenges of autism, the benefits of Cortica’s approach are clear. Autism is a complex condition that often involves a variety of co-occurring issues, such as sensory sensitivities, gastrointestinal problems, and sleep disorders. Treating autism requires a multifaceted approach that addresses not only behavioral challenges but also medical, nutritional, and developmental needs.
Cortica’s commitment to integrating these different aspects of care into one comprehensive treatment plan is particularly appealing to parents who are often overwhelmed by navigating multiple healthcare systems and specialists. With specialists in neurophysiology, genetics, gastroenterology, and nutrition working together, Cortica offers families a convenient, cohesive approach that saves time and improves the overall quality of care.
Furthermore, by offering immediate access to care and reducing wait times for diagnostics and treatments, Cortica is addressing one of the most pressing challenges in the autism care space: delays in early intervention. Early intervention is critical for children with autism, as research has shown that the sooner a child begins receiving treatment, the better their long-term outcomes. Cortica’s approach ensures that families won’t have to wait months for services, which can make a world of difference for children’s development.
Looking Ahead: The Future of Cortica’s Expansion
As Cortica continues to expand into new markets and add more centers across the United States, the company’s focus will remain on providing high-quality, integrated care to children with autism. The new centers in North Carolina are just the beginning of what is expected to be a continued nationwide expansion, as demand for autism services grows and more families seek out comprehensive, whole-child care solutions.
By combining cutting-edge treatments, a multidisciplinary approach, and a commitment to early intervention, Cortica is leading the way in transforming the autism care landscape. As the company grows, it will undoubtedly continue to shape the future of autism care, ensuring that children and families have access to the highest-quality support available.
With its new locations in North Carolina and a broader expansion plan in the works, Cortica is poised to make a lasting impact on the lives of children with autism and their families across the country.
