Ultimate Guide to Accessing New Mexico's Top Autism Resources

September 30, 2024

Discover New Mexico autism resources and support services to empower families and individuals on the spectrum.

Understanding Autism in New Mexico

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].

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 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. 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.