CRG provides a range of services for individuals with an Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and their families, including those with Asperger’s Syndrome.
What is ASD?
Increased knowledge of ASD has led to a rise in ASD diagnoses in recent years. Common symptoms include:
- Difficulty with eye contact and other nonverbal behaviors
- Difficulty with same-age peer relationships
- Delayed or no speech; difficulty with “small talk”
- Difficulty understanding the thoughts or feelings of others
- Limited ability to cope with anxiety
- Impaired problem-solving and organizational skills
Assessment/Diagnosis
CRG providers believe that an accurate assessment is the best foundation for effective treatment. Our team of psychologists and school psychologists carry out comprehensive ASD assessments. Our evaluations often include the use of the ADOS and can help families explore eligibility for ABA services. The resulting reports describe the person’s strengths and weaknesses and how to access relevant services.
CRG provides assessment and treatment in a range of areas for children, adolescents and adults:
- Augmentative Communication
- Educational Technology
- Pragmatic (Social) Language Skills
- Speech/Language Evaluation and Therapy
Therapy
Many of our psychologists provide therapy to individuals with ASD and their families. In particular, Dr. Sandra Burkhardt and Dr. Emily Roth specialize in providing assessment and therapy services to individuals with ASD. Caregiving to individuals on the spectrum can be challenging. Our psychologists offer informed clinical support to everyone in the person’s caregiving network.
Medication Management
Two of CRG’s medical providers, Jason Rowland, M.D. (child and adolescent psychiatrist) and Carolyn Krueger, APRN, PMHNP-BC (psychiatric nurse practitioner), specialize in medication management with individuals on the spectrum. Medications often help minimize the anxiety and executive functioning difficulties that many people with ASD experience.
Group Services
A number of CRG providers run social skills groups for children and teens. Many of the students who participate are on the spectrum. These groups help young people develop friendship skills, communication skills, greater self-awareness and self-confidence. Contact our front office for more information about groups run by CRG psychologists such as Dr. Nathan Larson, and Dr. Sarah Norris. Dr. Sandra Burkhardt also runs a free educational group for the parents/grandparents of youth on the spectrum. These groups meet throughout the academic year at CRG. Please click here to learn more about these groups.
Postsecondary Options
David Parker, Ph.D., CRG’s postsecondary disability specialist, helps individuals with high-functioning autism/Asperger’s explore postsecondary options. This can include specialized programs for students on the spectrum or disability services and related community supports for students who have the ability to attend online or traditional colleges.
Let Us Help You
CRG provides evidence-based, comprehensive services to individuals and their families. Our providers consult with one another to develop and implement a team-based approach to client services. Whatever your needs might be, call CRG’s Intake Line at (317) 575-9111 ext. 214 to discuss how we can help.
