United Services Center for Autism
Our mission is to provide the highest quality of care for individuals of all ages with autism spectrum disorders through the use of evidence based clinical practice and training for parents, family members and community providers. We provide ongoing support services to both individuals with ASD as well as to their family members. Download our Brochure
January Calendar of Trainings and Services
Philosophy
At the United Services Inc. Center for Autism we believe that effective evaluation and treatment of autism spectrum disorders occurs when provided within the guidelines and framework of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA). All programs provided at the center are supervised by Board Certified Behavior Analysts.
All services at the Center are provided in a comprehensive, family-centered manner. Parent training and support is a critical component in all service plans. Our belief is that individuals on the autism spectrum will make the most progress and achieve a higher level of functioning when ABA strategies are consistently implemented in all areas of their life including home, school, work and community.
Comprehensive Assessments
Our team offers comprehensive diagnostic and clinical assessments and evaluations conducted by specialists in the fields of behavior analysis, speech and language pathology and psychiatry. All evaluations are individualized to meet the specific needs of each family and provide clear diagnostic information and comprehensive treatment options. Our trained staff is also available to reassess or review existing treatment assessments to help identify a unified strategy of therapy and support individuals.
ABA Therapy
Our team provides both in-home and clinic -based ABA treatment. We work collaboratively with family members to identify goals and objectives, develop treatment strategies and activities, and monitor progress. ABA therapy is provided under the supervision of Board Certified Behavior Analysts.
Counseling and Support
Individual counseling services are available to children through our Child Guidance Clinic and to adults through our Adult Outpatient Clinic. These services are available to individuals with autism, their siblings, parents and other family members.
SibSupport Group
This group meets twice per month and is open to siblings of children with autism spectrum disorders. SibSupport provides peer support and education within a recreational context. It is an opportunity for siblings of children with disabilities to come together with other children facing the same life situation for fun, understanding and friendship.
Classroom Consultation
Our team is available for consultation with school personnel regarding issues related to students with autism spectrum disorders. Services may include recommendations and coaching to promote children’s success in the school environment.
Family & Community Trainings
Our autism trainings include an overview of autism as a developmental disability, interventions used in the treatment of autism, parenting issues and sibling support, life-long planning and special education issues. Our training team presents to parents, school personnel, service providers and community organizations.
Social Skills Training
Social Skills training is designed to strengthen communication skills and social interaction abilities. Skill-building activities include greetings, eye contact, turn-taking, initiating and maintaining conversations and developing friendships.
Social Thinking Groups
Social Thinking groups teach individuals why they react and respond the way they do, how their behaviors affect those around them and how behaviors affect their own emotions and relationships with others across various social contexts.
Vocational Training (Individual or Group)
Job coaching and vocational training services are available to adolescents and adults with ASD. Job coaches utilize ABA strategies and behavioral supports and teach self-monitoring techniques to enhance independent functioning in the workplace.
Tutoring
Children with an ASD may struggle academically in school due to the high demand and work load. Our program is designed to assess and assist students in areas of weakness in order for them to become more successful in the school setting. Tutors will monitor your child’s progress through the use of data collection and periodic assessments.
Recreational/Social Opportunities
Our social and recreational programs for ASD adults provide opportunities to participate in group settings and enhance communication and interpersonal skills. Program activities occur at our agency sites as well as in the community. Examples include game and movie nights, dinners at local restaurants, attending theater productions, sporting events and other recreational opportunities.
Family Scholarship Fund
United Services has developed a Family Scholarship Fund (FSF) to provide financial support for eligible families receiving services from the Autism Center. Individual, Family or Corporate donations designated for the Autism Center FSF will help offset expenses not covered by insurance for families who are experiencing financial hardship. The FSF program is always subject to available funds. To make a donation to the Autism Center Family Scholarship Fund please visit www.UnitedServicesCT.org or contact our Development office at 860.774.2020.
Key Contacts
Medical Director: Jayantkumar Patel, M.D.
Clinical Director: Elizabeth Brown, MS,BCBA ebrown@usmhs.org
Program Manager: Debora Moyer (Info./Intake) dmoyer@usmhs.org
Locations: Wauregan, Dayville, Columbia, Willimantic
Phone: 860.564.6100 x 8688
Fax: 860.564.6110