Autism

Autism spectrum disorders (ASD) have reached epidemic levels. The diagnosis is now at an all-time high, partly as the result of improved understanding and identification of symptoms. Indeed, one child in 150 is now diagnosed with an ASD. Currently, there is an acute shortage of high-quality, comprehensive services and programs for these individuals. Children and adults with ASD need intensive, educational, therapeutic and rehabilitative services, which are extremely costly and not fully supported by government funds. Children who are aging out of our early childhood system, the New York League for Early Learning, have no place to go as there is a shortage of schools equipped to work with them. This is an increasing problem.

YAI Network currently serves 3,800 people with ASD, from two to 75 years of age. It is critical that our highly specialized medical, evaluation, care coordination and planning services be expanded and new programs be developed so that we may continue to meet their needs. In addition, we must fill the gap in our service system and develop a school for children five years of age and older. The YAI Network must seek private support to continue its vital work in ensuring that people with ASD and their families can access the services they so desperately need to realize their full potential.

As leaders in the field of developmental disabilities for more than 50 years, the YAI Network has demonstrated that people with ASD flourish with services that target their specific needs. The YAI Autism Center will serve as a portal to provide access to a complete array of highly-specialized, top-quality diagnostic services, treatment and care for infants, children and adults with ASD and their families that will span the life cycle. It will integrate research, education and treatment, include a school-age program and develop national models for the coordination of care. The YAI Autism Center offers the finest in: 

•  Evaluations
•  Early intervention
•  Early childhood education
•  Family support services
•  Specialized medical and psychiatric services
•  Recreation, camping, and travel
•  Employment training
•  Residential services
•  Advocacy
•  Consultation and life planning
•  Information and referrals
•  Training and education for professionals and family caregivers

The Center will be directed by an expert in the field and all services and treatment will be provided by highly trained, experienced staff who are dedicated to fulfilling the YAI Network's mission. The YAI Network is affiliated with Mount Sinai Hospital and the Seaver Autism Center for Research and Treatment at Mount Sinai School of Medicine. Through enhanced access to diagnosis, assessment, treatment, and life planning, the Autism Center will provide parents and caregivers with hope and help them create a pathway to services, solutions, and success.