The goal of the Autism Spectrum Disorder Unit at ACRP is to provide interventions and services aimed at helping children and families improve their functioning and quality of life. There are several different diagnoses classified as Autism Spectrum Disorders. Children diagnosed with these conditions often have difficulty with social interaction, verbal and nonverbal communication, and display repetitive behaviors and/or restricted interests. Accurate, early diagnosis is the key to successful outcomes with ASD.
At ACRP we offer diagnostic evaluations for Autism Spectrum Disorders including, but not limited to, the use of Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule (ADOS). The Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule (ADOS) is the “gold standard” for assessing and diagnosing autism and pervasive developmental disorder (PDD) across ages (toddlers to adults), developmental levels, and language skills. The ADOS is a semi-structured assessment of communication, social interaction, and play (or imaginative use of materials) for individuals suspected of having autism or other pervasive developmental disorders. The ADOS consists of four modules, each of which is appropriate for children and adults of differing developmental and language levels, ranging from nonverbal to verbally-fluent.
ACRP strives to provide comprehensive treatment, education, and related services for children with autism and their families. We use and develop best practices coupled with validated research, while treating students and their families with dignity and respect.
We partner with families, universities, service agencies, school districts and our community to assist those affected by autism.
We undertake and support research to better understand autism, its causes and eventual cure.
What are the signs and symptoms?
There are several different diagnoses classified as Autism Spectrum Disorders. Children diagnosed with these conditions often have difficulty with social interaction, verbal and nonverbal communication, and display repetitive behaviors and/or restricted interests.
Symptoms can be numerous and varied and may include:
- Various developmental delays, including speech, motor, cognitive & social skills
- Using specific words or phrases repeatedly
- Poor eye contact
- Difficulty making and keeping friends
- Unusually strong, restricted, or odd interests
- Flapping of hands or flicking of fingers
- Exaggerated reactions to light, sound, touch, texture, etc.
- Difficulty with change or transitions
- Exaggerated emotional reactions (“meltdowns”), seemingly without reason
What can you do?
Be informed. While there is no cure for Autism Spectrum Disorder though there are a number of scientifically proven treatments that assist individuals with these diagnoses. Though children with an Autism Spectrum Disorder face particular challenges, they also have a number of strengths. For that reason, it is ACRP’s philosophy that treatment should be individualized to focus on the strengths of each child.
How can ACRP help?
The goal of ACRP’s Autism Spectrum Disorders Unit is to provide interventions and services aimed at helping children and families improve their functioning and quality of life.
ACRP is a community based mental health organization servicing the mental health needs of children, adolescents, adults, and families in Bedford, Blair, Cambria, Clearfield and Somerset counties. We offer diagnostic evaluations for Autism Spectrum Disorders including, but not limited to the use of the Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule (ADOS), which is the most valid and reliable assessment tool available for diagnosing ASD.
ACRP has many years of experience in providing and expanding the following Autism Spectrum Disorder programs
- ACRP Center For Achievement Autism School
- Applied Behavioral Analysis & Sensory Room
- After School Therapeutic Program
- Achieve Summer Therapeutic Program
- Summer Treatment Programs
- Respite Program
Additionally, ACRP can provide an array of auxiliary services such as:
- Outpatient Therapy
- Medication Management
- Partial Hospitalization
- Alternative Education Classrooms