Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)
Understanding Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a neurological and developmental disorder that affects communication, social interaction, learning, and behavior. It's known as a "spectrum" disorder because each person's experience is unique, with varying levels of severity and impact.
What are the Characteristics of ASD?
According to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5), individuals with ASD often experience:
- Difficulty communicating and interacting with others
- Restricted interests and repetitive behaviors
- Symptoms that affect daily life, including school, work, and relationships
- Autism can be diagnosed at any age, but symptoms typically appear within the first two years of life.
- Each person with ASD has a unique experience, with varying levels of severity and impact.
Learn More:
For more information on autism spectrum disorder, visit the National Institute of Mental Health website.
https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/publications/autism-spectrum-disorder
Assured Community Services' Response to Autism
At Assured Community Services, we're dedicated to providing supportive services to individuals with diverse disabilities. With the rising prevalence of autism in California, we're committed to enhancing our expertise and capacity to serve adults with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD).
Our Commitment to Autism Support
- Autism Certification: Over 20 of our managers, leaders, and front-line staff will become Autism Certified through IBCCES (International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards) by 2025.
- Autism Task Force: We're establishing an Autism Task Force, comprised of clients with ASD, to meet with our CEO and discuss autism-related topics, issues, and provide input on our services.
Get Involved
If you're looking for information on Autism or would like to share valuable resources, please don't hesitate to contact us!
CONTACT US HERE.AUTISM RESOURCES
- Autism Wandering Awareness Alerts Response Education (AWAARE)
- Autism Speaks
- Autism Society of America
- Autism Speaks Dental Guide and Video
- Families for Early Autism Treatment (FEAT)
- First Signs
- M.I.N.D. Institute
- National Institutes of Mental Health: Autism Spectrum Disorder
- Life Journey through Autism Series (Organization for Autism Research)
- Operation Autism for Military Families
- Teach
- National Foundation for Autism Research
- National Center for Autism
- Autism Awareness Centre
- California Autism Professional Training & Information Network
- CDC Learn the Signs Act Early
- Career Assistance for People with Autism
- National Center for Autism