Missouri Autism Resources
It’s not easy to hear that your child has been diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Parents who are given this diagnosis for their children may experience a wide range of emotions, including sadness and worry, anxiety and stress, fear and anger, and much more.
Luckily, we know so much more about autism than we did even 20 years ago. Thanks to advanced studies and research, we now know many of the common causes, symptoms and signs of autism, which helps professionals diagnose ASD more accurately and at younger ages than ever.
There are also many treatment options available for children with autism, including applied behavioral analysis, or ABA therapy. The science-based approach to learning and behavior is something that Blue Gems ABA offers.
Parents of children with autism can also benefit from the wealth of resources that are available to help them in a variety of ways.
Here are some of the best Missouri autism resources available.
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Missouri Department of Mental Health
The state Department of Mental established the Office of Autism Services (OAS) in 2008. It was created to provide leadership in program development for children and adults on the autism spectrum.
It also established program standards and coordination of program capacity. Through collaborative efforts, the OAS is committed to supporting the independence and self-sufficiency of individuals with autism as well as support for their families.
OAS offers a wealth of resources, information on directives and regulations, education and training, lists to projects and centers in the state dedicated to ASD, and so much more.
For more information, visit their website or call (573) 751-4054.
KVC Missouri
As a non-profit organization, KVC Missouri is passionate about strengthening families, and helping people achieve mental wellness. Under this umbrella, the group provides support, education and resources to children on the autism spectrum and their families.
This includes an autism camp program, an autism education program, an autism respite program, and so much more. The organization has a team of more than 800 professionals that provide a broad continuum of care to serve children and families across the state.
More information can be found online or by calling (844) 424-3577.
Project ACCESS
While Project ACCESS at Missouri State University is focused heavily on providing autism resources for educators and support personnel, they also offer a wide range of resources and support for families as well.
This includes information and links to organizations that provide diagnosis and transitions, as well as information on advocacy groups, education, IEPs and general resources.
The group is a great place for parents of children with autism to start on their journey. More information can be found online here or by calling (417) 836-5000.
Autism Society of Missouri
The Autism Society of Missouri provides information about community resources and local events that help children on the autism spectrum and their families. Families are able to locate service providers and doctors in their areas who specialize in ASD support, or they can find other information as well.
All of this can be found on the Autism Society of Missouri’s website here or by calling (314) 749-7225.
Blue Gems ABA Supports Children with Autism in Missouri
Parents of children with autism just want what’s best for them, and that’s exactly what we want, too.
At Blue Gems ABA, we work hard every day to help children on the autism spectrum live happy and fulfilling lives.
Our clinical psychologists evaluate children for autism and provide an official ASD diagnosis if appropriate. Then, we also have a team of therapists who work one-on-one with children with autism to administer ABA therapy, helping them gain the communication, social and daily life skills with which they may struggle.
To learn more, please contact us today.