JoyBridge Kids, a Nashville-based company specializing in autism therapy, has recently acquired Pediatric Advanced Therapy, a clinic located in Mooresville, North Carolina. This strategic move aims to expand the reach and impact of JoyBridge Kids within the autism therapy market, bringing a holistic and multidisciplinary care approach to more children in the Southeast region.
The acquisition of Pediatric Advanced Therapy adds to JoyBridge Kids’ assets, creating a seamless continuum of care that includes speech, occupational, physical therapy, and counseling services in addition to their existing joyful and progressive ABA therapy model. Mike Cairnes, CEO of JoyBridge Kids, expressed excitement about the partnership, highlighting Pediatric Advanced Therapy’s reputation for clinical excellence and their shared commitment to providing high-quality care to children and families.
Founded in 2020 by Rogers Clayton, JoyBridge Kids has continued to grow under the leadership of Cairnes, who joined the company in 2021. With the addition of Pediatric Advanced Therapy’s 10 clinics in North Carolina, JoyBridge Kids now operates a total of 24 sites across Georgia, Tennessee, and North Carolina. The company’s approach focuses on integrating clinical services and operations, with an emphasis on developing clinical directors and board-certified behavior analysts (BCBAs) through a dedicated graduate program.
Lonny Bernath, the owner and CEO of Pediatric Advanced Therapy, will remain with the combined business, ensuring a smooth transition and continued commitment to excellence in care. Bernath expressed enthusiasm about the merger, stating that the collaboration with JoyBridge Kids will allow their therapists to serve more children and families with increased resources and support.
In 2022, JoyBridge Kids received a private equity investment from Frontline Healthcare Partners, a firm based in Charleston, South Carolina. This partnership is expected to further enhance JoyBridge Kids’ capabilities and reach in the autism therapy market. Charley French, a partner with Frontline Healthcare Partners, expressed optimism about the future with the combined leadership teams of JoyBridge Kids and Pediatric Advanced Therapy.
Despite disruptions in the wider behavioral health industry, dealmaking in autism therapy remains robust, with data indicating that the volume of deals in 2025 is on track to match that of 2024. The market has become more discerning, favoring competent operators who are well-prepared for acquisitions and partnerships. The fundamental challenge in the autism therapy space remains bridging the gap between the high demand for services and the industry’s capacity to meet that demand.
Overall, the acquisition of Pediatric Advanced Therapy by JoyBridge Kids represents a significant step forward in providing comprehensive and high-quality care to children with autism in the Southeast region. By combining their expertise and resources, the two companies are poised to make a positive impact on the lives of children and families in need of autism therapy services.
