04/5/16
Randolph, Mass. – May Institute and WORK Inc., two Massachusetts-based organizations committed to improving the lives of individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and other special needs, have recently opened the Center for Integrated Adult Autism Services to provide clinical, employment, and housing services for adults with ASD across Massachusetts. The Center is also able to respond to the needs of individuals with a dual diagnosis of ASD and a co-occurring disorder.
The Center’s goal is to equip individuals with the skills, resources, and supports they need to live and work successfully in their communities. Designed as a “center without walls,” services are provided at the point of need.
Services are funded by the Massachusetts Department of Developmental Services (DDS) and through third-party insurance. The Center is now accepting referrals for adults on the autism spectrum who are in need of a combination of clinical and therapeutic supports, employment and supported education services, and housing options that include independent and shared living.
“Today, we face an overwhelming number of individuals with autism who are aging out of federally funded educational programs but still in need of continuing services and supports,” says Lauren C. Solotar, Ph.D., ABPP, President and CEO of May Institute. “These young adults are often confronted with daunting challenges as they transition into adulthood – challenges such as finding appropriate housing and services, securing meaningful employment opportunities, and building a full and integrated life.”
At the new Center, experienced clinicians employ the principles and methodologies of Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS), applied behavior analysis (ABA), cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), and dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) to meet the needs of the individuals they serve, including those with a dual diagnosis of ASD and a co-occurring mental health issue such as anxiety, depression, and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). In addition, the Center’s clinicians provide training to staff from the DDS, service providers, and family members.
“We are excited about this collaboration and look forward to serving this population and incorporating meaningful employment opportunities into their lives,” says James Cassetta, MPA, President and CEO of WORK Inc. “Our state-of-the-art training department and educational curriculums are geared to ensuring vocational success. We have an outstanding track record of matching the skills and unique abilities of the individuals we serve to the needs of the many employers who partner with us.”
[Learn more about the Center for Integrated Adult Autism Services.]
For more information, contact Kelli Leahy at 781.437.1280 or kleahy@mayinstitute.org.
About May Institute
May Institute is an award-winning nonprofit organization that provides educational, rehabilitative, and behavioral healthcare services to individuals of all ages with autism spectrum disorder and other developmental disabilities, brain injury, and behavioral health needs. May also provides training and consultation services to professionals, organizations, and public school systems.
Since its founding more than 60 years ago, May Institute has evolved into a national network that serves thousands of individuals and their families annually. With corporate headquarters in Randolph, Mass., the Institute operates more than 140 service locations in more than a dozen states across the country. For more information, call 800.778.7601 or visit www.mayinstitute.org.
About WORK Inc.
Nationally recognized as an innovator in developing community based programs for individuals with disabilities WORK Inc. is New England’s leading agency providing the skills and supportive services that help people achieve their career goals. The organization’s expertise in the employment industry has been achieved through a log and rich history of producing high quality employment outcomes through its customized supported employment programs and business development in the commercial and Federal sectors.
WORK Inc.’s dedicated staff and managers continue its mission to close the opportunity gap through best in class employment and placement services that make the lives of individuals with disabilities better and more independent.