The State of Missouri–Washington University Autism Clinical Center fulfills a unique role in addressing the needs of individuals and families affected by autism spectrum disorders in our community. It is one of six Missouri Autism Centers and a division of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry at Washington University School of Medicine. As a patient here, your child benefits from having a care team that’s constantly in contact with providers across Washington University School of Medicine and St. Louis Children’s Hospital.
Our collaborative model includes experts in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Psychology, or Neurology and could include Nurse Practitioners, Behavior Analyst, and Social Work. We collaborate with our partners in Genetics, Developmental/Behavioral Pediatrics, Speech/language, Occupational, and Physical Therapies to provide a comprehensive standard of care.
Diagnosis
Intervention planning for individuals affected by autism and related disorders hinges on accurate diagnosis, not only with respect to autism itself, but with respect to the many conditions that can complicate the life and development of an individual affected by autism spectrum disorder (ASD).
The Autism Clinical Center systematically evaluates and tracks the three foundations of accurate diagnosis in ASD. This includes:
- Developmental history
- Symptom burden- the impact that a child’s symptoms have on them and their family
- Expert clinician appraisal of the role of ASD
Intervention
Initial intervention planning and resource identification is an important part of our evaluation process. Reassessment is completed in the short-term in conjunction with our collaborative team and with ongoing communication with your primary care provider. Additional guidance will be determined on an individual basis.
Psychiatric Intervention
It is common for neurodevelopmental disorders such as Autism to be complicated by behavioral symptoms that can be extremely impairing and potentially treatable. These include anxiety, aggression, mood instability and hyperactivity. Assessment for these co-occurring or alternative diagnoses is often ongoing during the comprehensive evaluation. Treatment plans are made in collaboration with your primary care provider.
Appointments within the Autism Clinical Center require a referral form from a physician.
FOR PHYSICIANS: Please complete the Center’s Referral Form
Word version: HERE
PDF version: HERE
View or download the Autism Clinical Center brochure (pdf) »