Resources and Support Coordination for Loved Ones with Autism
For additional information about caring for your loved one with autism in New Jersey, explore these resources:
Working with an Autism Support Coordination Agency
Individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) each have their own interests, abilities, strengths and challenges. Regardless of where your loved one falls on the spectrum, every individual is unique in how they process information and perceive the world.
What is an Autism Support Coordinator?
Understanding who is involved with caring for your loved one with autism is the most important priority.
Autism support coordinators serve as your primary point of contact when creating care plans for your loved one. They are there for you to answer any questions or address any problems you’re experiencing to make sure your child’s needs are met.
To do this, autism support coordinators take time to understand your loved one’s specific ASD diagnosis, complete medical history, personal preferences, and other needs. They spend time with you and your family to ensure that the services chosen will help your loved one lead a happy, fulfilling life.
So, what specifically will your support coordinator do for your family – besides be there for you for any need, any time?
ISP Support Coordination for Adults with Autism
Autism support coordination starts with the Person Centered Planning Tool (PCPT) and continues with the Individualized Service Plan (ISP) – and then actually coordinating and receiving New Jersey Division of Developmental Disabilities (DDD) services.
The PCPT is a discovery tool that support coordinators use to guide the planning process and assist in the development of the ISP.
The ISP is a detailed written plan that includes information about activities, supports, and resources recommended for your loved one with autism. As someone’s needs or goals change, the ISP can be changed as well. The plan typically includes information about:
- Personal preferences
- Medical history/current medical concerns
- Communication preferences
- Dreams and goals
However, autism support coordinators go beyond just filling out paperwork. They establish lifelong relationships with your family and ensure your loved one with autism receives the best care and NJ DDD services possible.
NJ DDD Services & Programs for Autism
NJ DDD supports are offered by more than 250 agencies and provide a wide variety of Employment Services, Day Services, and Individual/Family Supports. Your autism support coordinator will help select the appropriate services for your loved one according to their unique ISP.
- Job placement
- Individual supports
- Job development
- Community inclusion services
- Training and systematic instruction
- Day habilitation
- Benefit support
- Assistive technology
- Career planning
- Behavioral management
- Prevocational training
- Occupational therapy
- Community based supports
- Transportation
- Vehicle modifications
Resource Center
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