Hope Network Expands Access to Autism in West Michigan
Developmental Enhancement Behavioral Health joins Hope Network, strengthening ABA, assessment, and behavioral health services across the region.
GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. (September 23, 2026) – As autism diagnoses continue to rise and demand for services grows across Michigan, Hope Network is expanding access to care through its acquisition of Developmental Enhancement Behavioral Health (DE), a respected West Michigan provider of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), psychological assessment, counseling, and related behavioral health services.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, approximately 1 in 31 children are now identified with autism spectrum disorder, underscoring the growing need for timely diagnosis, therapy, and family support services.
The acquisition builds upon Hope Network’s existing Center for Autism services and creates one of the most comprehensive autism and pediatric behavioral health platforms in West Michigan, expanding access to evidence-based care for children and families throughout Kent, Ottawa and Allegan counties.
Founded nearly two decades ago, DE serves children and families through locations in Grand Rapids, Grandville, and Holland and has built a reputation for high-quality, evidence-based services for children with autism spectrum disorder and other behavioral health needs. DE currently serves families throughout West Michigan and employs approximately 92 team members, including psychologists, Board Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBAs), behavioral technicians, counselors, and support staff.
"This partnership represents an important step forward in our commitment to expand access to high-quality autism and behavioral health services for children and families throughout West Michigan," said Bob Von Kaenel, President & CEO of Hope Network. "Developmental Enhancement has built an exceptional organization with a strong reputation for clinical care, operational excellence, and family-centered services. Our goal is to support and build upon that success."
As part of the acquisition, DE will continue operating through its existing locations and clinical teams. Hope Network intends to pursue a thoughtful and phased integration approach focused on continuity of care, employee retention, and preserving the strengths that have contributed
to DE’s success. Children and families will continue receiving services from the same providers, in the same locations, using the same clinical care models they know today.
"Throughout this process, our priority has been our employees, the children we serve, and their families," said Dr. Mark Laman, President and Director of Developmental Enhancement Behavioral Health. "Hope Network shares our commitment to evidence-based care and strengthening services for children and families. We are excited about the opportunities this partnership creates while maintaining the relationships and quality of care our families have come to expect."
Beyond ABA services, the partnership expands access to neuropsychological evaluation, counseling, and other behavioral health supports, creating a broader continuum of services for families across West Michigan. The combined organizations also bring complementary expertise and payer relationships that position them to serve more children and families throughout the region.
The organizations will spend the coming months focused on maintaining continuity of care, supporting employees, and ensuring a smooth transition for patients, families, and referral partners.