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Mindfulness and Meditation Practices for Stress Reduction
Founded in 1978, Services for the UnderServed (S:US) works with over 37,000 individuals and families throughout New York City to create pathways to rich and productive lives by offering housing, employment, skills-building, treatment, and recovery services.1 S:US provides support in the areas of...
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The Importance of Personalized Support and Care for Autistic Adults
People with autism have the potential for growth at every stage of life. When providing care for autistic adults, know that every moment and interaction can make a difference in their well-being and independence if you understand how they learn. Many of the people who receive support at The Summit...
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Embracing Neurodiversity: A Social Revolution of Autism and New Perspectives
Over the past 25 years, I have noticed a movement that has been gaining momentum, aiming to reshape societal views and acceptance of autism and the broader community of individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). If I could name this movement, I would call it Embracing...
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Where Is the Reform Movement in the Field of Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities in New York State?
All human services are facing twindemics of the Coronavirus and its economic consequences. The losses of staff and people in need of services are tragic. Here is the dilemma: Does even talking about reform in the field of intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD) make sense in the face...
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Jobs That Teach Employers and Employees
Jewish Child Care Association’s Compass Project helps young adults with special needs identify career and educational directions and foster friendships through socialization programs. It also encourages participants to pursue their dreams. Compass staff helps clients develop job readiness skills,...
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Helpful Financial Resources for Parents of Children with Autism
According to Autism Speaks, “The costs of providing care for each person with autism affected by intellectual disability through his or her lifespan are $2.3 million in the U.S.” According to Families USA, 60% of bankruptcies are due to medical debt. The Catalyst Center report “Breaking the...
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An Interdisciplinary Treatment Program in the School: A New Model
From our vantage point in 2012 there is nearly unanimous agreement among the scientists who study autism, that it is really many diseases, and some have suggested that we call it the “autismS.” Along with the three key diagnostic signs (language and social disorder as well as a rigid adherence...
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The Transition into Adulthood: Guiding Families Toward Successful Outcomes
One of the favorite things in my role as Director of Admissions and Family Services at Melmark is talking with parents about their children and helping families maneuver the complicated web of supports available to them. One of the most challenging parts, however, is helping families understand how...
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Early Intervention Resources for Families with Young Children
Research shows that early intervention (birth - age three) improves outcomes for children with autism and other special needs. Two good resources for families are: NECTAC (National Early Childhood Technical Assistance Center) with an overview of early intervention, data, and contacts...
