Arise Autism Center: Rewriting the Script for Family Care
"Build the solution you couldn't find and never lose sight of the 'why' behind your work. When you lead with empathy and focus on solving a real problem for your community, the growth will follow. Don't just start a business, build a community that lifts everyone it touches."
— Shebby Aras, CEO, Arise Autism Center
Rising Above: How Arise Autism Center is Rewriting the Script for Family Care
In the heart of Central Florida, a transformation is taking place—one child, one breakthrough, and one family at a time. Arise Autism Center, led by Founder and CEO Sebnem "Shebby" Aras, represents the powerful intersection of clinical excellence and a mother's relentless advocacy. The company's journey is not merely one of business expansion, but a deeply personal narrative of turning a family's struggle into a mission of hope.
The story began in 2017 when Shebby's son was diagnosed with autism at just 20 months old. Like many parents, she found herself thrust into a confusing labyrinth of endless calls, long waitlists, and the isolating feeling of navigating a system that wasn't built for speed or transparency. Witnessing the life-changing power of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy for her son sparked a realization: she didn't just want her child to thrive; she wanted to ensure every family had a smoother path to progress. In 2019, Shebby pivoted from her background as a seasoned business owner to launch Arise, building the organization she wished had existed for her own family, one where "access" wasn't just a clinical term, but a daily priority.
A defining moment for the company came when Shebby tackled the industry's greatest pain point: the dreaded waitlist. Recognizing that for a child with autism, time is the most valuable resource, she innovated a custom, streamlined intake and onboarding system that reduced wait times to a fraction of the industry standard. This focus on rapid access, combined with a hybrid model of center-based, in-home, and telehealth options, allowed Arise to scale with remarkable speed. The company has seen consistent organic growth, expanding its dedicated workforce by 44% since 2021. Today, Arise operates multiple locations across Lake Mary, Sanford, and Clermont, reflecting a strategic expansion designed to bring high-quality care closer to the families who need it most.
Beyond clinical metrics, Arise Autism Center has become a beacon for community advocacy. As a parent-founded organization, giving back is woven into the company's DNA. The team educates families and community by providing accessible, evidence-based resources that support early awareness and understanding. Furthermore, Arise has become a vital launchpad for young professionals in the region. By investing in mentorship and clear career pathways, Shebby has built a supportive workplace culture where early-career therapists, particularly young women, are empowered to grow into leadership roles.
The significance of being recognized as a GrowFL Florida Companies to Watch is deeply felt by the entire Arise team. To Shebby and her staff, this honor serves as a profound validation of their "family-first" philosophy. In an industry often defined by high turnover and clinical burnout, being "one to watch" highlights Arise's ability to sustain high performance while maintaining a culture of joy and collaboration. It is a testament to the idea that a healthcare provider can scale rapidly without losing the personal, empathetic touch that families crave. For the clinicians, it is a spotlight on their tireless work behind the scenes, and for Shebby, it is proof that her son's diagnosis wasn't just a challenge, but a catalyst for a movement that is changing the landscape of autism care in Florida.
As Arise looks toward further geographic expansion and the development of new digital tools for parent education, Shebby remains grounded in the personal journey that started it all. When asked what advice she would give to aspiring entrepreneurs, she offers a perspective born of experience:
"Build the solution you couldn't find and never lose sight of the 'why' behind your work. When you lead with empathy and focus on solving a real problem for your community, the growth will follow. Don't just start a business, build a community that lifts everyone it touches."
About GrowFL’s Programs
GrowFL Florida Companies to Watch (FLCTW)
The Florida Companies to Watch program, hosted annually by GrowFL, celebrates top second-stage companies across the state for their impressive growth and entrepreneurial success. This prestigious program recognizes 50 standout businesses each year, chosen from hundreds of nominees. Honorees are celebrated for their innovation, economic impact on Florida’s economy, and the ability to scale effectively. Through FLCTW, GrowFL not only acknowledges these companies’ achievements but also brings them into a spotlight that enhances their visibility in the marketplace. The event offers an extraordinary opportunity for networking, sharing best practices, and gaining exposure to potential investors and partners, making it a cornerstone for fostering business growth and recognition within Florida’s vibrant business community.
