Welcome to Lifeline

About Us

We are a counseling center for autism. The counseling center is intended for individuals with autism and the families of individuals with autism who encounter various challenges and situations that require professional assistance.

Our values are:

• Respect: for the unique characteristics, interests, and needs of individuals. It is important to recognize and appreciate the diversity among people with autism.
• Adaptability: Be open to adapting approaches and methods based on the needs and preferences of the individual. Flexibility is essential for meeting individual differences.
• Communication: Encourage clear and explicit communication, and be open to various forms of communication such as spoken language, sign language, pictorial support, or alternative and augmentative communication (AAC).
• Continuous Learning: Be willing to learn and update your knowledge about autism and best practices to effectively support individuals with autism.

Our team:

• Dragana Andjelic, 43 years old: Master's in Special Education from the University of Belgrade, Serbia.
  Fifteen years of experience in direct work with children with special needs, particularly with children with autism, in a special school in Oslo, Norway. Throughout these years, AAC (Augmentative and Alternative Communication) has been used directly with the children and their families.
  Languages: Serbian, Norwegian, and English.
• Tone Marie Tveten, 41 years old: Bachelor’s in Computer Engineering, Master's in Religion and Society. PPU and advanced education in special education. More than 13 years of experience working with autistic children. Languages: Norwegian and English.

Our services

We offer a wide range of services designed to support individuals with autism:

• AAC - Alternative Augmentative Communication: A communication method used by individuals who have difficulties expressing themselves verbally. AAC includes a variety of techniques and tools such as pictures, symbols, pointing, speech synthesis devices, and computer programs to help these individuals communicate their needs, thoughts, and feelings.
• Assessment – ABLLS: Assessment of Basic Language and Learning Skills is a standardized tool developed to evaluate the skill levels of children with autism or similar developmental disorders.
ABA - Behavioral Analysis: A scientific approach that studies how environmental factors affect and control behavior. It focuses on observation, measurement, and systematic analysis of behavior patterns to identify causes and develop effective interventions.

What is Autism?

Autism is a neurological developmental disorder that typically manifests early in childhood and lasts throughout life. It affects how a person perceives and interacts with the world around them. Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) can have a variety of symptoms, but common traits include challenges with social interaction, communication, and repetitive behavior.