New Mexico offers various resources and services for individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and their families. This section highlights key organizations and programs that provide support and evaluation for those affected by autism.
Autism Spectrum Evaluation Clinic at UNM
The Autism Spectrum Evaluation Clinic (ASEC) at the University of New Mexico (UNM) Center for Development and Disability provides comprehensive services including case management, assessment, diagnostic evaluation, and therapeutic intervention for clients aged three years and older, along with their families. The clinic offers access to multidisciplinary providers such as psychology, pediatrics, psychiatry, clinical counseling, social work, and speech-language pathology, all of whom are trained in autism and developmental disabilities 1.
The ASEC aims to facilitate a thorough understanding of autism for each client through its range of services. Here is a summary of the services provided:
| Service Type | Description |
|---|---|
| Case Management | Coordinated support to help navigate services available to families. |
| Assessment and Diagnostic Evaluation | Comprehensive assessments to diagnose ASD and related conditions. |
| Therapeutic Intervention | Tailored therapy sessions to help clients and families cope with challenges. |
| Multidisciplinary Access | Collaboration with various specialists to provide holistic support. |
Autism Society New Mexico
The Autism Society New Mexico is dedicated to supporting individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorders and their families. It provides education, support, and advocacy to improve the lives of those affected by autism across the state. The organization focuses on creating awareness and fostering understanding of autism within the community, along with providing resources for families navigating the challenges associated with ASD.
Their initiatives include:
| Initiative | Description |
|---|---|
| Educational Resources | Offer materials and information to educate families about autism. |
| Support Groups | Facilitate connections between families for shared experiences. |
| Advocacy and Awareness Campaigns | Promote the needs and rights of individuals with ASD in New Mexico. |
The Autism Society New Mexico, in conjunction with organizations like the ASEC, plays a vital role in ensuring that individuals with autism and their families have access to the necessary support and resources throughout the state.
Resources and Services
New Mexico provides an array of resources aimed at supporting individuals with autism and their families. These services include support organizations, intervention programs, and assessment centers designed to enhance the lives of those affected by autism.
New Mexico Autism Society
The New Mexico Autism Society offers various services, including educational workshops, support groups, and advocacy services for individuals with autism and their families. Their website features a comprehensive list of resources covering:
| Resource Categories | Description |
|---|---|
| Private Therapies | Information on private therapy providers |
| Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) Providers | Local ABA service options |
| Counseling | Access to mental health professionals |
| Education | Educational resources and services |
| Equine Therapy | Programs utilizing horses for therapeutic purposes |
| Legal Support | Legal resources and advocacy |
| Medical Diagnosis Providers | Help with accessing diagnostic services |
| Recreational Activities | Opportunities for recreational engagement |
| Regional and National Resources | Links to broader autism resources |
| Residential Supported Living | Options for supported living arrangements |
| Respite Services | Temporary relief for family caregivers |
| Safety | Resources focused on safety measures |
| Social Skills Groups | Groups designed to enhance social interaction skills |
More detailed information can be found on their website 3. Families weighing ABA as an option may also want to read about understanding the ethics of ABA therapy before choosing a provider.
New Mexico Autism Intervention Program
The New Mexico Autism Intervention Program (NMAIP) is a statewide initiative providing early intervention services for children with autism. Key offerings of NMAIP include:
- Developmental evaluations
- Individualized treatment plans tailored to each child's unique needs
- Family training and support
NMAIP aims to equip families with the skills and knowledge necessary to support their children effectively 4.
New Mexico Autism Assessment Center
The New Mexico Autism Assessment Center (NMAAC) specializes in diagnostic evaluations for children suspected of having autism. Employing a multidisciplinary team approach, NMAAC ensures a comprehensive evaluation process. Families can expect thorough assessments that consider various developmental aspects and lead to accurate diagnoses 4.
By utilizing these resources, families can receive the support and services necessary to navigate the challenges associated with autism in New Mexico.
Support and Programs
In New Mexico, various support programs and resources are available to assist individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and their families. This section highlights three key organizations: UNM Health Autism Programs, Family Autism Network, and Autism Connection of New Mexico.
UNM Health Autism Programs
The UNM Health System provides a comprehensive range of autism services aimed at enhancing the lives of individuals with ASD. One notable offering is the Thrive program, a 12-week online life skills course designed for adults aged 18-30. The program emphasizes self-advocacy and prepares participants for meaningful engagement in the workforce and community. Topics covered include Self-Determination, Life Management (finances, nutrition), and Career Exploration, with input from Autists who hold advanced degrees in Special Education.
| Program | Age Group | Duration | Key Focus |
|---|---|---|---|
| Thrive | 18-30 | 12 weeks | Life Skills & Workforce Readiness |
Additionally, the Autism Programs at the Center for Development and Disability (CDD) involve a multidisciplinary team comprising clinical psychologists, speech-language pathologists, social workers, educators, occupational therapists, advocates, and counselors. They provide education, training, and consultation services, including diagnosis for children over three years old and personalized in-home consultations to help children develop essential skills 2.
Family Autism Network
The Family Autism Network is dedicated to empowering families affected by autism. They provide educational resources, support groups, and community-building events to help families navigate the challenges of autism. This organization focuses on fostering connections among families, offering them a platform to share experiences and access vital resources. By partnering with various professionals, they aim to improve the quality of life for families and provide guidance on educational and developmental needs.
Autism Connection of New Mexico
The Autism Connection of New Mexico serves as a vital resource for individuals with autism and their families. They offer a range of support services, including information dissemination, advocacy, and community events. The organization emphasizes awareness and education about autism, striving to create an informed community that understands the unique challenges faced by individuals with ASD. Their mission includes fostering a supportive environment that encourages inclusivity and acceptance, while also providing resources to enhance the day-to-day experiences of families dealing with autism.
Through these organizations, New Mexico offers a robust network of support and resources tailored to meet the diverse needs of individuals with autism and their families. Each program contributes to building a more inclusive community, ensuring access to vital services and information for those affected by ASD.
Statewide Support and Services
Access to comprehensive support and services is essential for individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and their families in New Mexico. The state offers various resources through governmental organizations to improve the quality of life for those affected by autism.
New Mexico Department of Health
The New Mexico Department of Health plays a pivotal role in providing support for individuals with ASD. The department oversees an array of services which are funded through State General Funds. However, due to the demand for these services, there may be potential waiting lists in certain communities. The services include diagnostic evaluations, resources, and supports for families 6.
| Service Type | Description |
|---|---|
| Diagnostic Evaluations | Assessments to determine the presence of autism. |
| Family Resources | Information and tools to support families. |
| Parent and Community Training | Workshops and training sessions for parents. |
Developmental Disabilities Supports Division
The Developmental Disabilities Supports Division (DDSD) collaborates with the University of New Mexico (UNM) Center for Developmental Disability Autism Programs to provide extensive services and support for children and adults with ASD 6. Among the services offered are Applied Behavioral Analysis (ABA) services for families eligible for Medicaid.
| Service | Details |
|---|---|
| ABA Services | Covered under Behavioral Health benefit for eligible families. |
| Community Collaborations | Partnerships for better resources and training opportunities. |
| Eligibility and Coordination | Families can contact their Care Coordinator within the MCO for service access. |
For those using private health insurance, services mandated by Senate Bill 39 allow coverage for diagnosis and treatment of autism spectrum disorders for individuals up to 19 years old, extending to 22 if still in high school. The coverage encompasses various therapies, including speech therapy, occupational therapy, physical therapy, and ABA 6. Families that later relocate to New Jersey, Georgia, or North Carolina can check their insurance coverage for in-home ABA therapy in those states.
Families seeking further information about accessing services for an individual with ASD can visit the UNM Autism Programs website for guidance and resources 6.
Financing and Coverage
Understanding the financing options available for autism services is essential for families seeking support in New Mexico. This section outlines Medicaid services for Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), private health insurance coverage, and the accessibility of UNM Autism Programs.
Medicaid Services for ASD
Families with a child diagnosed with ASD who is eligible for Medicaid can request Applied Behavioral Analysis (ABA) services, which are covered under the Behavioral Health benefit package. To determine eligibility criteria, families should contact their Care Coordinator within the Managed Care Organization (MCO).
| Service | Coverage Provided | Eligibility |
|---|---|---|
| Applied Behavioral Analysis (ABA) | Covered under Behavioral Health benefit | Eligible Medicaid recipients |
Private Health Insurance Coverage
In New Mexico, private health insurance plans are required to cover services for children with ASD. This mandate was established by Senate Bill 39, signed into law in 2009. The coverage applies to individuals up to 19 years old and extends to 22 if still in high school. Services encompassed under this legislation include:
- Diagnosis and treatment of autism spectrum disorders
- Speech therapy
- Occupational therapy
- Physical therapy
- Applied Behavioral Analysis (ABA)
| Coverage Type | Age Limit | Included Services |
|---|---|---|
| Autism diagnosis and treatment | Up to 19 (22 if in high school) | Speech therapy, Occupational therapy, Physical therapy, ABA |
UNM Autism Programs Accessibility
The University of New Mexico (UNM) offers various autism programs that provide additional resources and services for families affected by autism. Many of these programs include or coordinate with home-based ABA therapy so children can practice new skills in everyday settings. For more information about accessing these programs and the related services, families are encouraged to visit the UNM Autism Programs website.
Through these financing structures, families in New Mexico can find various ways to access critical resources and therapies that support their children with autism. Understanding these options allows families to make informed decisions about their child's care.
References
1: https://unmhealth.org/services/development-disabilities/programs/clinics/autism-evaluation.html 2: https://unmhealth.org/services/development-disabilities/programs/autism-programs/ 3: https://nmautismsociety.org/resources 4: https://www.crossrivertherapy.com/autism/new-mexico-autism-resources 5: https://unmhealth.org/services/development-disabilities/programs/autism-training.html 6: https://www.nmhealth.org/about/ddsd/pgsv/autism/
