Autism Services
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) Services is made up of an ASD Consultant and Support Worker. The ASD Consultant and Support Worker provide support to individuals affected by ASD by enhancing access to effective and efficient services and supports while enhancing their capacity to function in the community. The ASD teams work closely with the Centralized Services Team which provides annual diagnostic assessments clinics in our region.
These services are delivered through a combination of direct and indirect service, home and community-based resource development and education to children, youth, adults and their families throughout the process of diagnosis of ASD and/or during the implementation of subsequent interventions.
Scope of Services
1. Screening and Early Supports
Provide training and education around early indicators of Autism Spectrum Disorders to service providers who are likely to be the initial contact for individuals suspected of having Autism Spectrum Disorders.
2. Assessment and Diagnosis
Enhance timely access to appropriate health care professionals for assessment and diagnosis.
3. Intervention and Treatment
Expand and enhance evidence-supported intervention and treatment services for individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorders.
4. Respite and Family/Caregiver Supports
Enhance respite and other supports to assist families and caregivers of individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorders.
Detection of early indicators will result in timely referrals to appropriate diagnostic centres. Early diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorders has been shown to play a significant role in the planning and provision of appropriate interventions and supports. Evidence-supported intervention and treatment for individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorders has been shown to improve functioning. Relief from care giving helps families and caregivers to cope.
5. Consultation and Collaboration
Expand and enhance timely consultation and collaboration amongst stakeholders regarding the assessment, diagnosis, intervention and treatment of individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorders.
6. Training and Education
Provide opportunities for formal education, pre-service and in-service training programs to individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorders, their families, health care and human service professionals, and community-based service providers who work with the client population and their families. Training and education services are culturally appropriate and relevant to Aboriginal and other populations.
7. Transitional Services
Provide services that facilitate transitions between critical stages in the individual’s life, thereby enabling the individual to reach their full potential.
8. Research and Evaluation
Monitor and evaluate Autism Spectrum Disorders intervention and treatment services in Saskatchewan. Identify evidence-supported practices in the intervention and treatment of Autism Spectrum Disorders, and develop or adopt standards to guide the delivery of clinical services and Autism Spectrum Disorders programming. Timely consultation and collaboration, including information sharing, is needed to support the development of a comprehensive care plan for individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorders. Knowledgeable, skilled care providers and informed clients are essential components of a comprehensive care plan. Transitions tend to be very challenging for individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorders. On-going research and evaluation ensures that individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorders have access to evidence-supported intervention and treatment services.