Autism Programs

Autism Progams

A critical part of SARRC's mission is to assist families in their journey once a child has been diagnosed with an autism spectrum disorder (ASD). To that end, SARRC has developed autism programs and services based on best-practice models and designed specifically for individuals with an ASD or for those who impact their life, including parents, educators, therapists and habilitators. SARRC's programs fall under three categories: clinical, vocational and school-based.

Clinical:

SARRC's clinical programs rely on evidence-based practices and intervention characteristics and include a framework of core intervention components that span across programs. These include applied behavior analysis (ABA); pivotal response teaching (PRT); early intervention; parent education and training; services and programs implemented across the lifespan; and capacity-building methods that support children with autism in inclusive, natural environments (e.g. home, school and the greater community).

School-based:

SARRC's school-based autism services focus on supporting students in inclusive education programs and/or transitioning students from special education to general education placements. Autism training and consultation services aim to build the capacity for schools and districts to independently support the social, academic and behavioral needs of children with autism in inclusive programs by designing interventions with the whole school as the unit of analysis.

Vocational:

The Opus West Vocational & Life Skills Academy was recently established by SARRC to maximize the independence, productivity and quality of life of young adults and adults with autism and related developmental disorders. Through ongoing education, daily living skills training, supported employment and interest-based career and job development, young adults and adults with autism have the opportunity to expand their horizons and give back to our community.