Catalyst for Change: Leader Pioneering Innovative, Person-Centered Care for Autism & Developmental Disabilities

By Margaret Mitchell

SAN FRANCISCO, CA – November 11, 2025 – Susan Armiger, a driving force behind the behavioral healthcare organization Catalight, is being recognized for her leadership in revolutionizing care for individuals with autism and other intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD). Armiger recently received a Silver Stevie Award for Innovative Woman of the Year in Business, a testament to her commitment to person-centered care, innovative treatment models, and a future where neurodiversity is celebrated.

Catalight, with a network reaching thousands of individuals and families, is challenging traditional approaches to behavioral health. Instead of focusing solely on symptom reduction, the organization is prioritizing quality of life, empowerment, and individualized care plans tailored to each person's unique strengths and needs.

Addressing a Critical Need

The demand for specialized behavioral healthcare for individuals with autism and I/DD is soaring, yet access to timely and effective services remains a significant challenge. Long wait times, fragmented care, and a lack of personalized attention are common pain points for families. Catalight is tackling these issues head-on.

“The biggest frustration for families is often navigating a complex system and waiting months – even years – to get the support their loved ones need,” explained a healthcare professional familiar with Catalight’s work. “Catalight has demonstrably reduced those wait times, offering a much-needed lifeline for families.”

The company reports a remarkable 93% of families now receive care within 10 days, a significant improvement compared to national averages which can stretch for months or even years. This swift access is crucial for early intervention and maximizing positive outcomes.

A Shift Towards Person-Centered Care

At the heart of Catalight’s success is a fundamental shift towards person-centered care. This approach moves away from a “one-size-fits-all” mentality, instead focusing on individual goals, preferences, and strengths.

“Traditional behavioral therapy often focuses on fixing deficits,” a family advocate shared. “Catalight recognizes that individuals with autism and I/DD have unique talents and abilities. Their care model aims to build upon those strengths, empowering individuals to live fulfilling lives.”

The organization emphasizes measuring quality of life, not just symptom reduction. This includes assessing areas such as independence, social inclusion, emotional well-being, and personal fulfillment.

Innovative Treatment Models

Catalight is also pioneering innovative treatment models. One example is the Modular Approach for Young Autistic Children (MAYAC), designed to provide early, intensive intervention. The company’s “Compass Behavioral model” similarly focuses on providing a holistic and individualized approach to care.

Beyond treatment models, Catalight is actively promoting neurodiversity, recognizing that brains are simply “different” rather than “broken”. This philosophy challenges societal stigmas and fosters a more inclusive environment. “There’s a growing understanding within the autism community that accepting neurodiversity is essential,