Autism Services Across America

Road Maps for Improving State and National Education, Research, and Training Programs

Edited by Peter Doehring, Ph.D.

Excerpted from Autism Services Across America:

Road Maps for Improving State and National Education, Research, and Training Programs

Contents

• About the Author ............................... vii

• Contributors ............................... ix

• Foreword Fred R. Volkmar ..................... xi

• Acknowledgments ............................... xvii

• Introduction ............................... xix

• I Understanding the Scope

  1. About Autism Spectrum Disorder ........................ 3
  2. Services for People with Autism Spectrum Disorder: What Can This Include? ........................ 25
  3. An Overview of the Training, Research, and Policy Supporting Systems of Services for People with Autism Spectrum Disorder ............................... 59
  4. How It Works: The Infrastructure of Agencies and Organizations That Support Services, Training, Research, and Policy ................. 101

• II Exemplary Regional, Provincial, and Statewide Programs

  5. Autism Spectrum Disorder Services, Training, and Policy Initiatives at the West Virginia Autism Training Center at Marshall University ............ 135
  6. The Pennsylvania Bureau of Autism Services and the Department of Education: Providing Educational and Community Services Across the Life Span ............ 147
  7. Delaware Autism Program: Statewide Educational Services in the Public Schools ......................... 161
  8. Indiana Resource Center for Autism: Promoting Local Capacity Statewide Through Research, Education, and Policy ............................... 185
  9. Regional Autism Intervention Program and Related Research Activities at McMaster Children’s Hospital in Ontario ....... 195

• III Exemplary National Initiatives

  10. Learn the Signs. Act Early.: The Public Health Approach to the Early Identification of Children at Risk for Autism Spectrum Disorder and Other Developmental Disabilities ...................... 231
  11. National Professional Development Center on Autism Spectrum Disorders: An Emerging National Educational Strategy ....... 249

• IV Facing Autism Nationally: How to Improve Services Through Training, Research, and Policy

  12. What We Have Learned: How to Create Integrated Networks that Improve Access, Increase Capacity, Develop Expertise, and Address Meaningful Outcomes ............................... 269
  13. Where We Can Start: Immediate Opportunities for Improving the Lives of People with Autism Spectrum Disorder ............................... 297

• Index ................................................. 319

About the Author

After completing his doctoral training as a clinical and research psychologist in Canada, Peter Doehring, Ph.D., began his career developing autism spectrum disorder (ASD) screening and early intervention programs within a regional psychiatric hospital in Montreal. He then served as Statewide Director for the Delaware Autism Program (DAP) and led DAP through significant growth.

Through his consultation services—ASD Roadmap—he now provides training and strategic support to families and agencies struggling to organize, expand, and improve services and programs. He actively champions the role of research in improving practice and has edited a volume reviewing evidence-based treatments for autism.

Introduction

There has been a tremendous increase in interest and awareness of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) since the 1990s. This increased interest has brought more services and research aimed at understanding ASD. ASD significantly impacts individuals, despite the growing understanding of effective interventions.

Professionals now have tools to diagnose ASD accurately before the age of three and can utilize interventions to address various debilitating features of the disorder. However, despite advancements, many affected by ASD have yet to benefit from this knowledge. Some challenges remain: how to effectively leverage the available expertise across various domains in health, education, and community services.

Through various experiences, including working with children and families, developing training programs, and influencing policy, I have recognized gaps and barriers in understanding, resources, and service delivery. Bridging these gaps remains a significant challenge and opportunity to enhance lives affected by ASD.

SECTION I: UNDERSTANDING THE SCOPE

In recognizing the complexity of ASD services and supports, it was crucial to provide a summary of needed services across various disciplines, domains, and levels of government. The aim was to equip parents, practitioners, and policymakers with knowledge to advocate for and implement changes in service delivery.

SECTION II: EXEMPLARY REGIONAL, PROVINCIAL, AND STATEWIDE PROGRAMS

This section details model programs that showcase effective services, training, research, and policy initiatives across different states. Each program highlights unique approaches and contributions to the overall landscape of autism services.

SECTION III: EXEMPLARY NATIONAL INITIATIVES

National organizations contribute significantly to scaling initiatives that address the needs of individuals with ASD. Observations from various initiatives illustrate the potential for developing comprehensive strategies that tackle service provision and advocacy at a broader level.

SECTION IV: FACING AUTISM NATIONALLY: HOW TO IMPROVE SERVICES THROUGH TRAINING, RESEARCH, AND POLICY

This section reflects on lessons learned about creating integrated networks that support access, capacity Building, and meaningful outcomes for people living with ASD. Collaboration across disciplines remains essential to effectively meet the diverse needs of individuals with ASD.

REFERENCES

Handleman, J.S., & Harris, S.L. (2000). Preschool education programs for children with autism. Handleman, J.S., & Harris, S.L. (2006). School-age education programs for children with autism.