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Devereux's Autism Assessment Center provides timely answers and support for families“The worst part for parents before a diagnosis is the waiting. You know something is happening with your child, but you don’t know how to help until an official diagnosis is given.” The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention indicates that one in 68 U.S. children has an autism spectrum disorder, a 30 percent increase from two years ago. Unfortunately, facilities offering autism diagnostic services are few and far between; families can wait anywhere from 18 months to two years to access these services. Access to early diagnosis and interventionThe Devereux Autism Assessment Center understands the importance of early and accurate diagnosis. Opened in 2015 in West Chester, Pa., the center provides families with swift and comprehensive diagnostic autism assessment services for individuals of all ages – from early childhood through adulthood. “As a national leader for the provision of evidence-based autism treatment and education services, Devereux knows early intervention is critical,” said Devereux Pennsylvania Children’s Intellectual/Developmental Disabilities Services (CIDDS) Clinical Director Carol Anne McNellis, Psy.D. BCBA. “Our Autism Assessment Center staff can schedule family appointments within two to four weeks, which helps families identify and implement appropriate services and treatment – so they can move forward.” About our Autism Assessment CenterAs a smaller, “boutique” autism diagnostic center, Devereux’s licensed professionals have extensive training and experience delivering evidence-based assessments and interventions. “But equally important is the caring and support we provide to families as they receive the answers they need for prompt access to the right services to help loved one build skills and achieve greater independence,” said Dr. McNellis. Additional benefits include:
“With same-day feedback – followed by a detailed evaluation report with assessment information, diagnosis and recommendations – families can consult with Devereux to receive guidance on the best, local services available to support a child and his/her family, including school services, therapies and interventions,” explained Kelly. “But the greatest advantage is that families avoid the 12-18 month wait for an evaluation. Having lived through this more than 10 years ago – with my daughter Annie – I know how important it is to get access to services quickly.” What happens during an assessment?The screening and intake process is completed by licensed psychologists who determine each individual’s assessment needs. The family is then scheduled for an assessment – either a half-day or full day – depending on the complexity of the individual’s referral concerns. On the day of the assessment:
“Because an assessment can take several hours, the center features a family room equipped with a stocked kitchenette, a play area and a computer with Internet access,” said Kelly. “We also offer a private parking spot and bathroom, a changing table for infants, and toys for any siblings who might be there with their parents.” After the assessment:
Click here to learn more about our Autism Assessment Center. To schedule an appointment, or for more information, contact: Carol Anne McNellis at (267) 788-6892 or via email: cmcnelli@devereux.org. About Devereux Advanced Behavioral Health:Devereux Advanced Behavioral Health is one of the largest nonprofit behavioral healthcare organizations in the country. Founded in 1912 by special education pioneer Helena Devereux, we serve as a national partner for individuals, families, schools and communities, serving many of the most vulnerable members of our society in areas of autism, intellectual and developmental disabilities, specialty mental health, and foster care. To learn more, visit www.devereuxpa.org.
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