Search Results

< Back An Interview with an Autistic Police Officer James Ward-Sinclair Oct 12, 2019 A Bit about Ben: Before we go on, one of the interesting things I thought worth mentioning about my interviewee today was how, despite receiving a diagnosis at a young age (in fact, mine and Ben’s mums met at a support group when we were kids), Ben by his own admission doesn’t know much about autism and says that he wouldn’t class himself as being part of the ‘autism community’. To Ben, being autistic just meant a confusing school life, where social struggles caused him to be ‘isolated’ and communication challenges left him being viewed as ‘a complete looney and weirdo’. Ben says that he just ‘didn’t have an awareness’ and he was ‘treated badly by people for it’. Things eventually got so bad that after three incidents in which he was kicked, pushed over and had pins pushed into him, Ben no longer could stomach education and refused to return until he could change school (something which he eventually did). However, despite this leaving him with a somewhat lukewarm impression of the spectrum, his interview turned out to be very inspirational and more positive than I anticipated – but then again, I should probably let you be the judge of that. An Interview with an Autistic Police Officer: James: Question 1: Do you swear to tell the truth, the whole truth and nothing but the truth? Ben: I affirm James: So you say that social struggles are one of the biggest challenges you have. What made you choose a public sector job? Ben: When I was in school I would never have thought about being in the police. I think it was around that time [year 10] I learnt to play the guitar and that was ultimately what kind of changed things, in as much as I suddenly had something I could have a common interest in. Forming bands and stuff meant that I was able to generate this social circle that I never had before and my confidence massively improved. I developed a personality that wanted to be part of a community and I already had experiences which gave me motivation to do something good. Then very, very quickly I knew that I wanted to be in the cops. James: What was the next step after you had made this decision? Ben: Once I knew, I wouldn’t do anything else. Getting into the cops was hard but I wouldn’t be disillusioned. It’s intense and requires you to have some academic skill and there’s a lot of waiting. You have to be patient because you could wait 6 months to join and I think people who struggle under pressure would struggle with the application process because it is intense. There’s a telephone interview which isn’t very natural. They don’t ask you about a business or your past experiences. All the questions are based around competency and values that you must have, and they are very specific and don’t allow much room to present your individuality. One of them is openness to change . You then attend an assessment day at the police college; where you do 4 role plays, two written exams, another interview and it’s like phwar, you’re really pushed and by the time you are on the brink of it, your mind is racing and you’re fatigued. It’s dead tough. James: Most autistic people like their routine. So, when you say they are looking for openness to change, did this or the realization of routine breaking, irregular shifts deter you? Ben: I mean I suppose I do have my routines. I always get dressed the same way, always have the same shower and I suppose that when I’m dealing with a job, there’s a lot of paperwork which I always do in the same order. But all the stuff that I have a routine for, like getting ready, how I park my car, where I put my keys, you repeat on the night shift too. In the day, you get up, go to work, you do your shift, then when you’re on the nightshift you get up, go to work do your shift. The actual work in the nightshift doesn’t make a difference. James: So maybe I’m reading into this, and, correct me if I’m wrong, but it sounds like you have your routine, it’s not a schedule, it’s how you do things, that’s the routine. Ben: Yeah, it doesn’t matter the time of day it’s the order. It’s subconscious. James: So does autism help or hinder in the police? For example, It’s said that autistic people have a strong sense of justice. Do you feel this is true and does it help you? Ben: Interestingly enough, I had a conversation with my inspector the other day. I said I find it hard deciding what I will and won’t investigate. We could get a shoplifting, a pick pocketing, a domestic assault and a burglary and we have to be very critical with what we put to the side to ensure that we do the most critical offences. I find it hard to tell people who have been pickpocketed that we haven’t got the resources to send someone out to look at all the CCTV, locate witnesses, interview people on the street and I imagine that must feel terrible. It makes me sad, but that’s how things are with funding and staff at the moment. So yeah, it does help me to do a good job, to motivate me to catch the criminals but it’s probably more of a hinderance – because telling people I can’t investigate sometimes goes against everything I stand for. It’s an uneasy feeling. James: would you say that the police is a good job for autistic people or would you say… Ben: I think it’s important that autistic people are given the chance to be in the cops in the same way that the police should be a mix of all ethnicities, sexualities and religions, because the fabric of the community is just as diverse and we should represent who we are policing. Also, there are many autistic people who will need support. They are victims of crime so why can’t they be soldiers against crime?… [Editor’s note: although the interview took place over the phone, I imagine that it was at this point Ben put a monocle on, started stroking his chin and his brain turned on the philosophical switch] ….but then, I suppose it would be unfair for me to turn around and say that every autistic person can be a cop – because I don’t think that’s true. You have to be realistic. Some people who are autistic are regimented and you don’t get that in the cops. In a split second they could say you’re working another [shift] and you are going to really struggle. Also, the autistic spectrum opens up difficulties and strengths in all areas but generally those challenges are detrimental in terms of safety and managing workloads and it won’t always be clear-cut…. But I suppose that’s the same for everybody; nobody’s the same, so I guess that it’s unfair to say that every autistic person would be a fantastic cop in the same way that it would be unfair to say everybody would be a fantastic cop. However, when you have a Jewish community, it helps to have a Jewish officer because they will have stronger ties. But, when it’s an autistic person, that person only represents one kind of autism, potentially, in the country. You’re a fantastic representative of yourself but the spectrum is so broad and big you’ve not got the entire target audience…. do you get what I mean? James: I do. So do you think it’s important for autistic people to disclose? Ben: It’s personal choice. I haven’t but that’s not because I’m ashamed or embarrassed but because I manage my own autism. If it’s the case that you find something really really difficult then disclose and the force will support you and utilize you because of your different background for a certain community, or to help with learning. The force is aware that there are autistic people in it and they will provide help if you want it. So, should people disclose? It depends what’s right or wrong for you. James: Finally, and most importantly, who is the best cop in TV and movies? Ben: …all I can think of is Bruce Willis and he did a pretty bang up job in all 7 of his movies but my favorite cop film is End of Watch – except for the last 10 mins which I thought was a bit OTT. Previous Next

A Pathway for Early Identification and Neuroaffirmative Support within Autism and Neurodiverse Development: Background Evidence and Implementation Practice Time Keynote Address - 8:15 AM Presenter/Facilitator Professor Jonathan Green Back to Course List < Back About the Course In this keynote address, Professor Green will cover the theory, ethics and practice of an integrated early intervention pathway for autism and neurodiversity. This will include a discussion of the neurodiversity movement and ethics of healthcare, concepts and evidence for the iBASIS and PACT models of early intervention, and how these can be combined into an integrated and evidenced based early care pathway for health services. Objectives Participants will list the features and effects of parent-mediated social communication interventions like iBASIS and PACT, and explain what mechanistic studies reveal about autistic development. Participants will identify the core concepts of a transactional approach to neurodiversity and autism development and discuss the role of health services in neurodiverse development. Participants will identify the health system characteristics best suited to an autism care pathway using examples of practical implementation in the UK and internationally in South Asia and Australia to propose specific changes or enhancements to existing health systems. Professor Jonathan Green Jonathan Green is Professor of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry at University of Manchester and Hon Consultant Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist at the Royal Manchester Children’s Hospital. He studied medicine at Cambridge, Paediatrics in London and Psychiatry in Oxford, before establishing clinical and research groups in Manchester, UK. He has undertaken developmental science in both autism and early relationship development and the development and testing of early parent-mediated interventions for autistic development for both pre-school diagnosed children (PACT) and in the pre-diagnostic stage (iBASIS). He has built on this evidence to advocate an early developmental pathway approach to autistic care that is now being applied in the UK and internationally. The not-for-profit, IMPACT which he co-directs, has trained PACT in 30 countries and now also iBASIS. Since 2018, he has undertaken increasing participatory work with the autistic community, including discussion on neurodiversity and the ethics of intervention (see Green 2023), a novel participatory project on autistic phenomenology (Murray et al 2023, Green and Shaughnessy 2023) and true co-design of a new anxiety intervention for young autistic children (Cullingham et al 2024). Jonathan sat on the most recent UK NICE development group for autism care. He is a Senior Investigator in the UK National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR), Fellow of the UK Academy of Medical Sciences, and UK Global Senior Leader in autism for the International Society of Autism Research (INSAR). Speaker Disclosure: Professor Green received a speaking fee for this course.

< Back RESIDENTIAL SERVICES About Residential Services Our residential services resources provide information on residential options available for individuals with autism who require support with daily living skills. These resources can help families find appropriate residential options for their loved ones with autism. ADULT RESIDENTIAL SERVICES Complete Life Care – Cade’s Cove House 210.520.0774 6647 Cade’s Cove, SA TX 78238 ICF-MR/RC Council Oaks Community Options 210.646.0717 Provides ongoing evaluation; planning; 24-hour supervision; coordination; and integration for health or rehabilitative services in a protected residential setting to individuals with disabilities; please call for a full listing of available programs; fees; scheduling and eligibility. Dreams Come True Assisted Living 210.979.6420 3242 Swandale St, SA TX 78230 State funded group home for men ages 19 and above with disabilities; provides a protected residential setting; ongoing evaluation; planning; 24-hour supervision; coordination and integration for health or rehabilitative services to help men with disabilities function at their greatest ability. Please call for a full listing of available programs; fees; scheduling; eligibility and availability. Most insurance including Medicaid and Medicare accepted. Eldorado Adult Living Center 210.599.8656 Mailing Address: PO Box 33487, SA TX 78265 Physical Address: 12302 Gran Vista St, SA, TX 78233 El Dorado Adult Living Center offers assisted living for people with disabilities by offering comprehensive and individualized health care and rehabilitation services to individuals to promote their functional status and independence in San Antonio; Texas. Assists males ages 18 and up. Medicaid and private pay only. Enhanced Living Services 210.599.4449 4422 Centergate St., SA TX 78217 ICF-MR/RC, HCS Hill Country San Antonio Management, Inc 210.340.8256 Web: www.hillcountrysanantoniomanagementinc.com 3355 Cherry Ridge, Ste. 108, SA, TX 78230 Hill Country San Antonio Management Inc. is a Medicaid based program that provides services to Individuals with disabilities in the Austin, San Antonio and Corpus Christi areas. Hill Country San Antonio Management Inc. is a Home and Community Based Services (HCS) provider agency; and we also provide services to individuals enrolled in the Texas Home Living (TxHmL) program. Some services provided include nursing, physiological and physical therapy. For information about services offered; please call. Clients need to be assessed by AACOG prior to being accepted for residential services. Medicaid and Medicare are accepted insurances. Homelife & Community Services, Inc 210.736.3334 Web: https://homelifeandcommunityservices.com/ 2401 Wilson Blvd., SA TX 78228 HCS, Texas Home Living General Revenue Lifetime Living, Inc 210.651.0279 Web: http://lifetimelivinginc.com/ E-Mail: info@LifetimeLivingInc.com Central Main Office: 5425 N. Loop 1604 E., SA TX 78247 Specializing in community-based services for those with intellectual & developmental disabilities. Home & Community Based Services (HCS), Texas Home Living Services (TxHmL), Classes, & General Revenue Services (GR); Accept Traditional Medicaid thru Approved Medicaid Waiver Programs & Private Pay. Mission Road Ministries 210.924.9265 Web: www.mrmsat.org E-Mail: info@mrmsat.org 8706 Mission Rd, SA TX 78214 We provide each child with professional; 24-hour AWAKE care by trained; attentive staff allowing the child to thrive and grow into a successful and happy adult. We provide our partnering families with time and respite from the 24/7/365 care that often overwhelms families with children with special needs. Our caregivers are rested and ready to provide focused and loving for each of the children in their care. Our caregivers are not distracted like parents and foster parents are with other obligations like cooking dinner; doing laundry; driving other children to practices. They are 100% focused on the special children in their care. Furthermore; our caregivers all participate in 50+ hours of professional training each year. Our greatest strength: three 8-hour shifts of ready; rested and loving caregivers providing 24/7/365 awake care. For more info, you can call Monday - Friday 8 AM - 5 PM. Mission Road Ministries - Campus Cottages 210.924.9265 Web: https://www.missionroadministries.org/programs/children/ 8706 Mission RD, SA TX 78214 Mission Road provides residential care for children (3 to 17 years of age) with intellectual and other developmental disabilities in five homes on our 22-acre South San Antonio campus. Mission Road cares for children from all areas of Texas. To schedule your own private campus tour please call, or you can also take a virtual tour of the campus on the website. Mosaic of South Central Texas 210.967.0566 Web: www.mosaicinfo.org 1804 NE Loop 410, SA TX 78217 Mosaic is a faith-based organization serving people with disabilities living in group residences. All services are provided in a typical community-based setting which includes individuals living as roommates in a group home setting. Individuals receive 24-hours a day to provide assistance with completing daily living skills; meal planning and preparation; budgeting; shopping and medication administration. Assistance provided include matching a person receiving services with someone who provides the assistance needed for daily living in a family-like or roommate like setting. Residential and facilitative services include: skills training and adjunctive therapies with 24-hour supervision and coordination of the individual program plan. Providence Place - Legacy Program 844.546.8697 Web: www.provplace.org E-Mail: info@yourstore.com 6487 Whitby Rd., SA TX 78240 Two residential programs for young adults with disabilities after high school. Both are 2-4 years in length and teach/practice work and independent living skills. Oasis Home is an eight bed ICF Group Home and Legacy is an apartment living program for a young person who is already independent enough to not need supervision (case management is provided). Premieant 210.525.1509 1218 Arion Pkwy., Ste. 106, SA TX 78216 HCS and Texas Home Living providers; Provides services to individuals with disabilities like group homes; foster care and transportation to doctors’ visits; serves those 18 years old or older; HCS and Texas Home Living providers. R & K Specialized Homes, Inc 210.805.0802 Web: www.RKhomes.net 1550 NE Loop 410, Ste. 206, SA TX 78209 ICF-MR/RC, HCS A for-profit provider of Medicaid and private pay programs for people with disabilities; provides Dayhab; vocational and supported employment services. The Intermediate Care Facilities (ICF) is a Medicaid program that provides residential services in the community through group homes. Services include; adaptive aids; specialized therapies; behavioral supports; community supports; respite and nursing. Primary eligibility requirements include a diagnosis of disability and the individual must live at home with their family or on their own. Clients need to be assessed by AACOG prior to being accepted for residential services. Hours are Monday - Friday 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM; tours of facilities can be arranged by calling office. Reaching Maximum Independence (RMI) - Group Homes 210.656.6674 Web: http://www.rmihomes.org 6336 Montgomery Dr., SA TX 78239 Reaching Maximum Independence; Inc. is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that assists adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities in the San Antonio area live and work as independently as possible. --Our group homes; supported apartment programs and foster care services allow individuals with developmental disabilities and their families to choose the residential option that best meets their needs. Rescare - Residential Services and Home Health 210.979.7009 Web: http://www.rescare.com 3700 Belgium Ln, SA TX78219 ResCare Residential Services provides support to adults and children that need assistance with daily living. With almost four decades of experience in the disabilities services field; we are the country’s leading provider of services to people with disabilities. We offer a comprehensive range of services through: Community Living; Signature Services (day services/sheltered employment; respite/home care; case management; support services - physical; occupational; and speech therapy/nursing); Signature Quality and Training Programs; Rest Assured Telecare; and Supported Employment. Clients need to be assessed by AACOG prior to being accepted for residential services. Medicaid and Medicare are accepted insurances. River Gardens 830.629.4400 750 Rusk St., New Braunfels, TX 78130 ICF-MR/RC South Texas Community Living Corp 210.494.1030 Web: https://icltexas.com/ 2391 NE Loop 410, Ste. 110, SA TX 78217 ICF-ID, HCS; South Texas Community Living Corporation is an Intermediate Care Facility for individuals ages 18 and older with disabilities. We operate 6-bed group homes and an array of additional services to meet the needs of those individuals. We provide the full array of the following HCS services below: Audiology; Adaptive Aids; Behavioral support; Case coordination; Day habilitation; Dietary; Direct care in 3 and 4- bed group homes; Direct care in the natural home (Supported Home Living); Host (Foster) Care; Minor home modifications; Nursing (LVN and RN); Occupational; Physical and Speech therapy; Respite care; Social work; Specialized dental care and supported employment. Eligibility is done thru AACOG; Medicaid is accepted. Hours are Monday - Friday 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM Southwind Fields 210-526-1567 Web: www.southwindfields.com 6851 Citizens Parkway, Ste. 224, SA TX 77829 The Southwind City Locals program is designed for men and women of a wide variety of abilities. Whether living in their own place, or at home with a caregiver, a Southwind Local Advisor will come to them. If living at home is what's best for now, we'll help build skills to reach new levels of independence towards tailor made goals. City Locals already living in the community, may stay in their current place of residence, should they choose to do so. Those moving to the area, or who would like to relocate, may reside in an affordable Southwind partnership apartment complex, maintaining their own lease agreements, while enjoying the fellowship and community of living alongside other Southwind City Locals. City Locals receive basic case management services from our City Local Advisors, who will check in several times weekly to assess health & safety of the living environment, bus training (if appropriate), assistance with assuring bills are paid on time (if applicable), and the offer of assistance for financial management, employment search and retention (if applicable), medical needs, personal care, and independent living skills training. Specialized Home Life 210.599.8656 12302 Gran Vista, SA TX 78233 POBox33487, SATX 78265 ICF/ID Group Home The Arc of San Antonio Web: www.arc-sa.org Northeast side: 13430 West. Ave., SA TX 78216.................210.490.4300 North side: 6530 Wurzbach, SA TX 78240...........................210.682.4200 Day habilitation program; Life Enrichment and recreation for, teens and adults, ages 14 or older with developmental or other cognitive delays, 1-8 ratios; M-F, six-hour program; before and after care available. We accept HCS, General Revenue, and private pay; part-time available. Teen recreation program offered only during the summer. Limited reduced slots. The Center for Health Care Services 210.434.7001 Web: www.chcsbc.org 806 S. Zarzamora St., SA TX 78207 Assists adults suffering from mental illness; provides Adult Mental Health Intake and Crisis Management. Applications are taken on a walk-in basis from 8:30 AM - 2:00 PM. Availability is on a first come first serve basis. Bring a valid ID; proof of income; and proof of residency. Yes I Can 210.599.6668 10807 Perrin Beitel, Ste. 100, SA TX 78217 HCS; call from 8-5 CHILDREN’S RESIDENTIAL SERVICES CLASS Community Living Assistance and Support 877.438.5656 Interest list in Austin for individuals with a diagnosis of development disabilities and related conditions. Deaf/Blind Multiple Disabilities Program 877.438.5658 Interest list in Austin for those with diagnosis of deaf, blind, and a developmental disability. HCS - Home and Community Based Program 210.832.5020 Interest list in San Antonio for individuals with a diagnosis with intellectual disabilities. MDCP - Medically Dependent Children’s Program 877.438.5658 Interest list in Austin for individuals with a need for skilled nursing services up to age 21. YES - Youth Empowerment Services 210.735.2341 For children and adolescents with severe emotional disturbances to live in the community with their families. Previous Next

< Back AUTISM DIAGNOSIS About Diagnostic Services Most of our diagnostics are handled in-house, but if for any reason you need more support, our autism diagnosis resources provide information on where to find qualified professionals who can diagnose autism. These resources can help families get started on the journey to understanding and supporting their loved ones with autism. DIAGNOSTICS Assessment Intervention Management (AIM, LLC) 210.838.5351 Web: https://aimllcconsulting.com/ or www.sparkassessmentcenter.com E-Mail: info@aimllcconsulting.com 7410 Blanco Rd Ste. 400, SA TX 78216 We provide a wide array of psychological assessments (ADHD, Dyslexia, Autism, Neuropsychological, Learning Disability, etc.) for families. However, we specialize in customizing the evaluation to fit the needs of the family. Since we all come from a school background, we write our evaluations to match what the schools want. Autism Community Network (Us!) 210.435.1000 Web: www.acn-sa.org 535 Bandera Rd, SA TX 78228 ACN provides diagnostic evaluations for children as well as parent and professional education and training. In addition, ACN provides resources to families through its website, social media outlets and outreach events. ACNs goal is to help children with autism maximize their potential by working to expand autism awareness, improve early diagnosis and better connect families to the care and support available in San Antonio. For information on workshops, trainings or resources please call. Many forms of insurance are accepted, including Medicaid. BAMC Interdisciplinary Autism Team 210.916.2395 Sheri Sharp, Pediatric Speech Pathologist EFMP, Dept. of Pediatrics, Brooke Army Medical Center Ft. Sam Houston, TX 78232 Sees only Dept. of Defense beneficiaries and accepts only TRICARE. This interdisciplinary team includes pediatric speech-language pathology, child and adolescent psychology and developmental-behavioral pediatrics. We see children from the greater San Antonio area and outlying military installations throughout the region. Dr. Carrie George, Ph.D 210.593.2136 E-Mail: carrie.george@claritycgc.org Clarity Child Guidance Center 2135 Babcock Rd., SA TX 78229 Licensed Psychologist and Licensed Specialist in School of Psychology (LSSP) specialize in the assessment/diagnosis of developmental disorder, particularly autism spectrum and mood disorders; provides therapy for higher functioning Asperger’s Disorder. Provide therapy for children with mood and disruptive behavior disorders between the ages of 3 and 17 years. Insurance accepted: Tricare, Medicaid, Aetna, Blue Cross/Blue Shield, CHIP, Community 1st, Life Sync and ComPsych, Texas True Choice, United Behavioral Health and Value Options Health Insurance plans. Business hours: 9am to 5:30pm, Monday through Friday and testing only occurs on Tuesday, Wednesdays and Thursdays. Many forms of insurance are accepted, including Medicaid, Aetna and Tricare. Dr. Jeri Penkava 210.403.2343 Web: www.adhdplusinc.com 1046 Central Pkwy South, SA TX 78232 Services provided include evaluations; medication management; alternative therapies - nutritional; sound; and herbal therapy; Acupuncture; EEG bio-feedback; Children’s Yoga; and group therapy. Also employed are relaxation techniques, and hypnotherapy with patients. New patients must go on their website under “New Patient Forms and Links” and fill out each form and then either fax or email the completed forms as well as your insurance card and copy of your photo ID (email to: adhdplus.records@att.net ). Existing patients can follow the same link to schedule an appointment. Does not accept Community 1st, Amerigroup or Humana. Multiple insurances are accepted. In the case that yours isn’t, they provide competitive private pay pricing. Dr. Michelle K. Ervin 210.916.3400 Developmental Pediatrics SAMPC 3551 Roger Brooke Dr., Brooke Army Medical Center Ft. Sam Houston TX 78234 Sees only Dept. of Defense beneficiaries and accepts only TRICARE. Dr. Sean P. Meagher 210.292.5648 MDOS/MCCS 1100 Wilford Hall Loop, Lackland AFB, Texas 78236 Developmental Pediatrics, SAMHS Sees only Dept. of Defense beneficiaries and accepts only TRICARE. Dr. Stephen Greefkens 210.916.0765 Developmental Pediatrics SAMPC 3851 Roger Brooke Dr., Brooke Army Medical Center Ft. Sam Houston TX 78234 Sees only Dept. of Defense beneficiaries and accepts only TRICARE. Harkins and Associates 210.692.3439 Web: info@harkinsandassociatesinc.com 4118 Pond Hill Ste. 200 Shavano Park, TX 78231 Dr. Patricia Harkins, MD, Developmental Pediatrics. Do NOT accept Medicaid, Beech Street, CHIPS Programs, Fiserv Health, Health Smart, Unicare and Harrington Maddox Child Psychology, PLLC 210.762.4228 Dr. Katherine Maddox, Ph.D., LSSP Web: www.MaddoxChildPsychology.com Email: Dr.KMaddox@MaddoxChildPsychology.com 117 W. Craig Pl. San Antonio, TX 78212 Dr. Maddox specializes in providing psychological evaluations for children, adolescents, and young adults. When parents have concerns about their child's development, emotional/behavioral problems, social skills, or academic performance, a psychological evaluation can provide parents with valuable information such as diagnostic clarification, treatment needs, and recommendations on how to help their children achieve their goals. Dr. Katherine Maddox is a Licensed Clinical Psychologist and a Licensed Specialist in School Psychology. Her areas of specialization include providing diagnostic evaluations for children and adolescents with symptoms related to emotional, behavioral, developmental, and learning problems. Comprehensive Autism Program 210.704.4708 If your child needs a diagnosis of Autism or needs a diagnosis verified, we offer a multidisciplinary autism evaluation which is a four to eight-hour, full evaluation. This consists of evaluations by neurodevelopmental pediatrics, neuropsychology, audiology, social work, speech/language pathology, and occupational therapy. To schedule an evaluation, please ask your child’s primary physician to fax a referral to 210.704.4637 with attention to Autism Clinic: Needs Formal Diagnosis. Comprehensive Autism Program at The Children's Hospital of San Antonio 333 N. Santa Rosa Street Goldsbury Center for Children and Families, 4th Floor (4b) San Antonio, Texas 78207 Previous Next

Pediatric Autism Communication Therapy: An Innovative and Impactful Therapeutic Support for Empowering Families to Empower Their Children Time AM Breakout Session - 10:00 AM Presenter/Facilitator Dr. Carrie Alvarado, PhD, OTR, PACT Accredited Provider and PACT UK Associate Back to Course List < Back About the Course Pediatric Autism Communication Therapy (PACT) is an evidence-based, parent-mediated, video-aided intervention. This approach has demonstrated significant efficacy in promotion of social communicative initiations of child participants that generalize and sustain over time. This lecture will provide an overview of the extensive PACT research base as well as an introduction to the core therapeutic techniques and targets associated with the model. Participants will follow one family’s journey through PACT and will gain insight into how this developmental, relationship based model promotes well-being in entire family systems. Objectives Participants will summarize the Pediatric Autism Communication Therapy (PACT) model, emphasizing its impact on a child's social communication competencies. Participants will list the key strategies and techniques used in the PACT approach. Dr. Carrie Alvarado, PhD, OTR, PACT Accredited Provider and PACT UK Associate Dr. Carrie Alvarado serves as the Chief Operating Officer for Autism Community Network (ACN) and has a PhD in Infant and Early Childhood Development with an emphasis on Infant Mental Health and Developmental Differences. Dr. Alvarado is the creator and director of the Earliest Connections Clinic, our diagnostic program geared toward early identification and therapeutic supports for infants and toddlers. Additionally, Carrie leads the PACT therapy program- intensive intervention programs supporting families impacted by autism through dyadic coaching using reflective video feedback. Dr. Alvarado was the first in the United States to become a Pediatric Autism Communication Therapy (PACT) Accredited Practitioner and she serves as an Associate with PACT UK. Dr. Alvarado is passionate about building bridges where none yet exist, about innovating and expanding the boundaries of our knowledge, and about meeting families and fellow clinicians where they are and empowering them to find the gifts they all have to give. Speaker Disclosure: Dr. Alvarado receives a salary from Autism Community Network.

< Back Jennifer Cleveland, PhD Licensed Psychologist Dr. Jennifer Cleveland received her degree from the University of North Texas. She has worked in various settings (and states!) throughout her career including community mental health, the pediatrics department at Bronx Lebanon Hospital, and the school health program through Montefiore Hospital. She has always loved to work with children and adolescents and has a special passion for evaluations and neuropsychological testing. In 2015 Dr. Cleveland became a faculty member at Fairleigh Dickinson University (FDU) in New Jersey, where she served as the administrator for a program providing support for autistic college students. After four years at FDU, Jennifer decided it was time to get back to Texas and began working at UTSA’s former Counseling and Mental Health Services from 2019 – 2021. She left in 2021 to begin private practice full time where she particularly enjoyed evaluating and providing treatment for autistic adults. Jennifer served on the executive committee of the Bexar County Psychological Association as their Early Career Psychologist representative and wrote her first book chapter in 2022 in the book titled, Postsecondary Transition for College- or Career-bound Autistic Students. She joined ACN's clinical team in August of 2023 and is excited to contribute to the organization. In her free time, she loves going to music concerts with her husband, relaxing with her two teen children at home, reading, travelling, watching any good Netflix series (more recently The Lincoln Lawyer, Triptych, and Suits), and doing SPENGA workouts! jennifer@acn-sa.org (210) 435-1000

< Back Carrie Alvarado, PhD, OTR Chief Operating Officer Dr. Carrie Alvarado serves as the Chief Operating Officer for Autism Community Network (ACN). Carrie has a PhD in Infant and Early Childhood Development with an emphasis on Infant Mental Health and Developmental Disorders. Dr. Alvarado is the creator and director of the Earliest Connections Clinic, our diagnostic program geared toward early identification and therapeutic intervention for high-risk infants and toddlers. Additionally, Carrie leads the DIRFloortime and PACT therapy/teletherapy programs- intensive intervention programs supporting families impacted by autism through dyadic coaching using both in-vivo and reflective video feedback modalities. Dr. Alvarado's primary research interests are in Sensoriaffective Integration and attachment, clinical use of reflective video feedback, and in optimizing parent-mediated interventions via the modality of telepractice. She completed her dissertation on establishing preliminary validity of a new clinical assessment and coaching tool, the Sensoriaffective Interactional Attunement Scale (SAIAS), geared toward promoting enhanced use of sensoriaffective signaling between caregivers and their children. Carrie is also currently engaged in development of another scale, the Emotional Intelligence and Praxis in Play Scale (EIPPS), focused on evaluating the presence, sophistication, flexibility and organization of themes of emotional intelligence in child-led, symbolic, dyadic play. Dr. Alvarado was the first in the United States to become a Pediatric Autism Communication Therapy (PACT) Accredited Practitioner and she serves as an Associate with PACT UK. Carrie is a DIR®Floortime™ Certified Expert Clinician, and she serves as an Assistant Faculty for the Profectum™ foundation. Dr. Alvarado has also served as the lead for the Clinical Advisory Committee for STAR Institute, in Colorado. She is Core Faculty for the Fielding Graduate School of Psychology and Adjunct Faculty for the UT Health OTD Program. Dr. Alvarado is passionate about building bridges where none yet exist, about innovating and expanding the boundaries of our knowledge, and about meeting families and fellow clinicians where they are and empowering them to find the gifts they all have to give. Carrie is the proud mother of three young women and wife to her compassionate husband for 24 years. She enjoys time at the lake, snuggling with her many beloved pets, and listening to Huberman Lab podcast on repeat. Carrie is also a proud niece, cousin and first cousin once removed of beautifully inspiring, neurodiverse humans who made and make the world a better place to be a part of. carrie@acn-sa.org (210) 435-1000

< Back Vanessa Amaya Referral Coordinator Vanessa Amaya received a Bachelor's degree in Psychology from the University of Texas at San Antonio. She has worked with autistic individuals since 2012, first as a Registered Behavior Technician (RBT) to provide quality based Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) to children who were diagnosed with autism. After 6 years as an RBT, while also serving in various leadership roles, Vanessa has served children and families in an administrative role. Vanessa is currently seeking credentialing as a PACT certified provider. During her free time, she enjoys making memories with her husband, three children, and extended families. vanessa@acn-sa.org (210) 435-1000 ext. 5006

< Back MONEY MANAGEMENT & ESTATE PLANNING About Financial Services Our money management and estate planning resources provide information on financial planning and estate planning providers for individuals with autism and their families. These resources can help families plan for the financial future of their loved ones with autism and ensure they have access to the resources they need. MONEY MANAGEMENT & ESTATE PLANNING A Amazing Home Care 210.979.6022 1325 N. Flores, Ste. 114, SA TX 78212 Special match savings program for people with limited income. Helps build futures. Also includes program for buying a vehicle. LiftFund 1-888-215-2373 Web: https://www.liftfund.com/ Small business loans. AXA Advisors Jeffrey Moore 713.402.6400 E-Mail: jeffrey.moore@axa-advisors.com 8000 IH 10 West, Ste. 750, SA TX 78230 Carol Bertsch – The Law Offices of Carol Bertsch, PC 210.892.4555 Web: www.assistingseniors.com E-Mail: staff@assistingseniors.com 4950 San Pedro Ave., SA TX 78212 Long-term Care Planning, Estate Planning, Probate, Special Needs Trusts Catholic Charities 210.222.1294 Web: www.ccaosa.org EMail: info@ccaosa.org 202 W. French Place, SA TX 78212 Legal Services including immigration, wills and advanced planning services, guardianship, and legal aid. Offers a money management program that is designed to prevent the exploitation of disabled or elderly adults who are at risk of losing their independence due to their inability to manage their financial affairs. Cheryl McMullan 210.212.4076 111 Soledad, Ste. 300, SA TX 78205 Estate Planning, Guardianship & Medicaid Coalition of Texans with Disabilities 512.478.3366 Web: www.txdisabilities.org E-Mail: info@txdisabilities.org 1716 San Antonio St., Austin, TX 78701 Estate and family planning/trust Disability Benefits Assistance 210.732.6078 814 W. Euclid, SA TX 78212 Assist with applying for disability Heard & Smith, LLP Web: www.heardandsmith.com Social Security Disability Law ................................210.820.3737 10715 Gulfdale St., Ste. 100, SA TX 78216 Inheritance and Guardianship Law .......................210.904.3200 9601 McAllister Frwy., Ste. 620, SA TX 78216 Jim House 210.821.6863 8526 N. New Braunfels, SA TX 78217 Estate Planning, Guardianship K.T. Whitehead 210.930.4300 Web: www.whitehead-elderlaw.com 3004 Nacogdoches Rd, SA TX 78217 Estate Planning, Guardianship & Medicaid, Certified Elder Law Attorney Symmetry Financial Services, Inc 210.477.7140 Web: https://www.symmetryfinancialsolutions.com/ E-Mail: pst@symmetrytx.com 19230 Stonehue, Ste. 4200, San Antonio, TX 78258 Financial planning for people with special needs. Previous Next

< Back PARENT EDUCATION About Parent Education Services Our parent education resources provide information and support for parents of children with autism. These resources can help parents better understand their child's needs, access necessary resources, and support their child's growth and development. Ask about our caregiver empowerment programs! PARENT EDUCATION Any Baby Can of San Antonio 210.227.0170 Web: https://www.anybabycansa.org/enrollment/ 217 Howard, SA TX 78212 Contact: Autism Services Director The parent training course is divided into six group sessions with specific goals and learning objectives. You will also be assigned a Client Specialist that will assess your needs for additional supports, help coordinate your path through our services, and complete one-on-one in-home follow up support, as needed. Our goal is to ensure that your needs are met and that your child is successful. Autism Community Network 210.435.1000 Web: https://www.acn-sa.org/ 4242 Woodcock Dr. Ste. 101, SA TX 78228 ACN provides diagnostic evaluations for children as well as parent and professional education and training. In addition, ACN provides resources to families through its website, social media outlets and outreach events. ACNs goal is to help children with autism maximize their potential by working to expand autism awareness, improve early diagnosis and better connect families to the care and support available in San Antonio. For information on workshops, trainings or resources please call. AVANCE - San Antonio 210.220.1788 Web: www.avancesa.org 903 Billy Mitchell Blvd., Ste. 100, SA TX 78226 Meaning "advance" or “progress,” AVANCE serves as a trusted guide to assist under-resourced families of young children in overcoming isolation and lack of opportunity. Using our unique two generation education and relationship-building methodology, we help family members become the best parents, employees, and citizens they can be. Brighton Center 210.826.4492 Web: www.brightonsa.org 14207 Higgins Rd., SA TX 78217 Throughout San Antonio and Bexar County, Brighton Center provides developmental and educational services to children of ALL abilities. With a holistic, family-centered approach, we offer enrichment and development through our education programs. Previous Next