Harsha Autism Centers
Our Story
Paras Harshawat, M.D and his wife Roopam have lived in Terre Haute since 1990. Dr. Harshawat was the Medical Director of Charter Hospital in Terre Haute from 1990 to 1999 during that period Dr. Harshawat started his private practice and his wife Roopam managed the practice.
Dr. Harshawat has always had great compassion for individuals with developmental disabilities, MRDD, ADD, autism etc. having treated a large number of patients with this diagnosis. He has also been the medical director of several facilities that house these individuals and travels long distances to take care of them.
Recognizing the need for inpatient psychiatric services in the Terre Haute area Harsha Behavioral Center was formed and it opened its doors on August 18, 2008.
Due to Dr. Harshawat’s expertise in treating children and adolescents with autism the hospital started seeing a significant number of patients admitted with autism. These patients were coming to the hospital from all over the Midwest.

The Harshawats realized that these children and adolescents needed ongoing care to improve the quality of their lives and Harsha Autism Center was started.
Our Blog
Latest News & Resources

The Importance of Early Intervention for Children with Autism: A Statistical Overview
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD), commonly referred to as autism, is a developmental disorder that impacts the social skills, communication, relationships, and self-regulation of those affected by it. Autism is often identified during early childhood, with numerous...

Recent Studies Highlight the Effectiveness of ABA Therapy for Children with Autism
Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) is a well-researched therapy that has been successfully used for children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) for several decades. The therapy focuses on improving specific behaviors, such as social skills, communication, and self-care,...
The Impact of ASD on Siblings – How to Alleviate the Negative Affects
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) affects not only the individual diagnosed with it, but also their siblings. Siblings of individuals with ASD may experience a range of emotions, challenges, and opportunities that are unique to their family dynamic. It is important to...
Ways to Promote Physical Health in Children With ASD
Physical health is an important aspect of overall well-being for children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). Here are some ways to promote physical health in children with ASD: Encourage physical activity: Encourage your child to engage in regular physical activity...
Medicaid Funding Changes Will Impact ASD Providers
WTWO Channel 2 recently featured a meeting at Harsha Autism Center in Terre Haute with Lieutenant Governor Suzanne Crouch, Indiana State Senator Jon Ford, other state leaders, and Mel Kirchner, the Director of Harsha Autism Center. Lieutenant Governor Crouch...
Treatment for Autism Difficult to Find
Many families in the United States face challenges finding appropriate treatment for a child with ASD. Recently a news station in Indiana featured a parent struggling to find Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy for her son and an interview with Hannah...
Questions about insurance ?
We support our clients with a dedicated insurance team member within our company — that has years of experience in managed care contracting, coding, authorizations and billing issues. We are your advocate and partner in maximizing the potential benefits of your insurance coverage.