Clinical Training and Programs at the Emory Autism Center
The Family Support Program
When autism is diagnosed, families are helped to understand the range of possible outcomes and treatment options. Importantly, parents and other family members are taught the specialized teaching strategies that enable them to contribute to their child's learning at home and in their community.
When parents are provided with information, training, and ongoing support at the EAC, the quality of life improves for all family members. No one can match a parent's dedication to their child, and a knowledgeable parent is a consistent and lifelong advocate for a child and adult with autism.
Interdisciplinary Training
The EAC training programs aim to achieve greater statewide impact by offering training at Emory and across Georgia. Each year, hundreds of professionals come to Emory from across the state to observe the demonstration programs and get ideas for improving their own programs. A range of training options for professionals are developed based on individual needs and interests.
A range of options is available, including brief didactic presentations or workshops, internships, and technical assistance to programs. The demonstration programs serve as a formal training site for professionals in various disciplines, including psychiatry, psychology, education, social work, nursing, and pediatrics.
Medical Services
Comprehensive diagnostic evaluations are offered to individuals of all ages. The EAC also offers Psychiatric evaluation, ongoing monitoring of medication, and consultation to community physicians.
Community Outreach
EAC staff places high priority on interagency collaboration and on participation on statewide committees that may impact policy benefiting people with autism. The Center's reputation attracts the contribution of leading autism experts, and the EAC accomplishments receive prominent national attention. With continued community collaboration, the EAC stands ready to help reach the goal of making Georgia the best place to live for people with autism and their families.
Research
More than 15 years of grant-funded research efforts in social development and early intervention have contributed to sweeping changes in treatment approaches used by autism programs around the country. Through collaboration with neuroscience and genetics departments at Emory, the EAC is now well positioned to search for the cause and prevention of autism through search into the neurobiology of autism.