Autism Spectrum Disorders Program - About Us
The goals of the Autism Spectrum Disorders Program at the Center for Disabilities are to provide information, training, diagnostic services, consultation services, and family support to people with an Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), family members of people with an ASD, and professionals working with people with an ASD.
The Autism Spectrum Disorders Program was established in 1989 through the efforts of parents of people with an Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) throughout South Dakota. This group convinced state legislators of their need for independent, interdisciplinary assessments and individualized education and behavioral training for professionals and families involved with people with an ASD.
The term Autism Spectrum Disorders (which can also be referred to as Pervasive Developmental Disorders (PDD)) includes the following: Autism, Asperger's Syndrome, Childhood Disintegrative Disorder, Pervasive Developmental Disorder - Not Otherwise Specified (PDD-NOS), and Rett's Syndrome.