FREE PORTLAND AND SW WASHINGTON’S ONLY MAGAZINE FOR AUTISM SPECTRUM DISORDER
TEENS & ADULTS ON THE SPECTRUM VOCATIONAL REHABILITATION HOMESCHOOLING SELF-ADVOCACY TRUSTS & GUARDIANSHIPS
Special Needs Planning Every parent of a special needs child asks themselves
“What will happen to my child when we’re gone?”
We can help you find the answers Special Needs Trusts Guardianships and Conservatorships Sorting Out SSI & Medicaid Asset Protection Plans Wills Living Trusts Financial Powers of Attorney To order a free copy of our Legal/Financial Planning Guide, call (503) 245-0894 or visit our website at naylaw.com
Planning for your family tree 6500 SW Macadam Ave., Suite 300 | Portland, OR 97239-3565 Ph: 503.245.0894 | Fax: 503.245.1562 | www.naylaw.com
Helping families with special needs kids provide security and quality of life since 1984
Member:
FALL 2013
contents People with potential
Portland’s Happy Cup Coffee and Full Life offer training and employment to adults with disabilities. Photo by Jeff Mitchel • www.JMitchelPhoto.com
FEATURED SECTIONS Lifespan
8 10
12
Helping people live a full life Full Life and Happy Cup Coffee are striving to help “people with potential” achieve their best.
24
Trusts and Guardianships: Part 2 Raising a child with special needs comes with a myriad of questions and preparations for life once parents or guardians are gone. The simple answer: begin planning now rather than later.
26
Self-advocacy helped save my life Local woman Andee Joyce, an adult on the spectrum, shares her journey to making self-advocacy a part of her everyday life.
28
“My Turn” Jacob DC Ross, a Portland man with Asperger’s, tells how he reached a diagnosis as an adult and how that’s shaped his life.
Oregon Autism Commission receives grant for statewide supported employment training A new online training module for Vocational Rehabilitation employees to assist adults with autism find meaningful employment.
Recreation
16
Dancing on AIR Portland Parks and Recreation’s Adaptive Inclusive Recreation (AIR) holds a popular monthly dance that draws hundreds from throughout the region.
Education
20
Health & Wellness Puberty and sexuality: a necessary conversation Being prepared to talk to teens and adults about these sensitive topics is essential. Autism Specialist Marci Hammel breaks down the important areas to cover.
Therapy
32
What is Relationship Development Intervention (RDI®)? Barbara Avila, owner and director of Synergy Autism Center, introduces readers to RDI and its purpose in helping treat symptoms of autism.
33
Therapy options directory A comprehensive directory of Portland/SW Washington metro area providers in a variety of disciplines, from ABA and OT to music and art therapy.
Homeschooling the special needs student Many parents of children on the spectrum are choosing to leave public schools and set up a homeschooling environment. Local families share their success stories and how to get started. www.spectrumsmagazine.com
3
FROM the PUBLISHER
FALL 2013 | VOLUME 1, ISSUE 2 SPECTRUMS MAGAZINE LLC Courtney Freitag, Founder and Publisher Phone: (971) 998-5967 • Fax: (971) 327-6702 www.spectrumsmagazine.com courtney@spectrumsmagazine.com /SpectrumsMagazine Carefully etched on a door jamb in our house are two lines that cause me to get emotional. Recently, I measured the distance between those lines with my thumb and forefinger. The proof was there: my son had sprouted two inches in one year. Recently celebrating his 7th birthday, there’s no denying he is growing up. Growth. It’s an undeniable part of parenting and as children on the autism spectrum grow and mature, new challenges surface. Adults with autism must navigate a world that can feel unaccepting, limited and frightening. Our fall issue centers around teens and adults experiencing autism and the myriad of topics and issues that are unique to this population. Whether it is puberty and sexuality, self-advocacy or supported employment training, children on the spectrum grow up.
Editorial Advisory Board: Genevieve Athens, Michael Brooke, Amy Donaldson, Karen Krejcha and Jody Wright Spectrums Magazine LLC makes no warranty, guarantee, endorsement or promotion of any service, provider or therapy option listed in this publication or its website (www.spectrumsmagazine.com). This is a free community magazine created as a courtesy to the public. Spectrums Magazine LLC cannot be held liable for any action or decision based upon information found in this publication or the magazine’s website. It is the responsible of individuals to discuss any therapy or treatment option with your care team. Every effort is made to ensure accuracy and verify information, however readers using this information do so at their own risk. No part of this publication maybe reproduced or transmitted without prior written consent from the publisher. ©2013 All rights reserved.
ON OUR COVER
And speaking of growth, it’s a bit surreal to be writing my second column as publisher of a magazine. A short year ago, Spectrums Magazine was merely a thought swirling inside my brain—a space that is often cluttered with hundreds of ideas fighting their way to the top. Launching the magazine last spring was made possible by the incredible support of a community of families, professionals, businesses, organizations and educators who took a chance on an idea that would bring stories and resources to the autism community. The response to Spectrums from the community has been overwhelming. Between the premiere issue and the one you hold in your hands, I have attended several autism events, personally handed out hundreds of copies, followed up with businesses who took a leap of faith to advertise and fielded inquiries from people all around the nation. For the fall issue, we have grown both our distribution points and circulation, adding 100 new places to pick up a hardcopy of the magazine and increased circulation to 7,000. I had one question when putting this idea into motion: Is this a resource that’s needed. The resounding answer has been yes—enough to convince me to publish quarterly in 2014. This endeavor has created endless opportunities for me to step outside my comfort zone and be challenged in ways unimaginable. Sort of like being the parent of a child on the spectrum. Part of the journey of launching Spectrums includes the realization that the bubble of living with a 7-year-old will soon pop. He will grow up and, with the help of his family, peers and educators, live an incredibly full life with unlimited potential and opportunities.
@SpectrumsMag
Bill Snell, an employee of Happy Cup Coffee, is learning valuable skills while working in the organization’s coffee roaster and shop. Read more about Snell and the “Champions for People with Potential” on page 8.
Photo by Jeff Mitchel www.JMitchelPhoto.com
Building awareness, talking and sharing information and creating a support system prepares both families and people on the spectrum for the inevitable transition into adulthood. Being networked into the services and options available allow parents to provide the best options for their child and allow those experiencing autism to tap into the community resources available. It’s incredibly satisfying that I can provide even a sliver of a platform for these individuals and professionals share their stories and the important work they do. It feels like I might be growing up, too.
I had the good fortune of meeting and interviewing adults on the autism spectrum to prepare for this issue. Their poise, strength, positiveness and honesty humbled me and I appreciate the rawness they exhibited in sharing their stories. Courtney Freitag Founder and publisher
4
www.spectrumsmagazine.com
Good food. Education. Support. Find a wide variety of foods and supplements for special diets, including thousands of gluten-free and casein-free options. Take advantage of our friendly staff’s knowledge and passion for finding the right foods and supplements for your family. Our free wellness classes and store tours are led by local health experts, including our own staff nutritionists. Learn about allergens, natural parenting and wellness where you shop! newseasonsmarket.com
Special comfy room for toddlers and kids with special needs Sedation and Hospital Dentistry available TVs on the ceiling
503.626.9700
10 off SUPPLEMENTS
$
Save $10 off your purchase of $40 more from our supplements department. Includes children’s vitamins, minerals, herbal remedies and more!
Valid through 12/31/2013 • original coupon only
May not be combined with other offers or discounts. Excludes purchase of stamps, gift cards and sales tax. Not refundable or redeemable for cash.
u<0! ! !=fhjgcJ<~
www.spectrumsmagazine.com
5
lifespan IDEAS AND TOPICS FOR ALL
AGES AND STAGES
IN THIS SECTION Helping people live a full life........................... 8 Trusts and guardianships................................10 Supported employment training.....................12
6
www.spectrumsmagazine.com
Photo by Jeff Mitchel â&#x20AC;¢ www.JMitchelPhoto.com
Therapy for kids with individual differences and sensory needs. “We have been on this road of autism therapy for eight years now, and after visiting countless clinics both in Oregon and California, it is my sincere and humble opinion that the love and care we received at Sensory Kids is truly unparalleled.” — Searmi, parent and client at Sensory Kids
Family-Centered, Child-Driven, Therapist-Led Sensory Integration • DIR/Floortime • Parent-education Sessions Occupational Therapy • Integrated Listening Systems • Social groups Yoga Calm® Classes • Caregiver support group • SOS Feeding Counseling • Dance/Movement Therapy
1425 N Killingsworth Street, Portland www.sensorykidsot.com • (503) 575-9402
2702 NE 78th Street, #104 • Vancouver (360) 573-6047 • aadlanddental.com
www.spectrumsmagazine.com
7
LIFESPAN
helping
full life
PEOPLE LIVE A
By Courtney Freitag
“I’m like an autistic sponge,” Bill Snell declares smiling. “I soak up everything.” The 23-year-old lights up when he talks about his love of gaming and programming (“Java is like English,” he says), the impact that technology is having on the environment and how spent coffee grounds are helping the 5-foot pepper plants in his garden.
For more than two years, Snell has worked at Happy Cup Coffee Company, a non-profit small batch coffee roaster and distributor in Northeast Portland. The organization is a social venture of Full Life who has the motto: Champions for People with Potential. And Snell shows he is full of just that. “He is just a great employee,” says Rachel Bloom, the organization’s founder. “He is always happy, gets along great with everyone and has even been out on some sales calls with us.” I ask Snell to give me the sales pitch similar to one he’d give to a local retailer: “Why not support a good cause and get some great coffee at the same time?” he smiles.
For adults with disabilities, there is often a lack of services and vocational opportunities that are individualized to fit specific needs. Many supports and services received during the K-12 education years end at age 21, leaving those on the spectrum to find employment, housing and ways to fill the day while gaining necessary life skills. There are a variety of situations and opportunities available for those living at home, in a group home or independently. The goal is finding opportunities, programs and organizations that will be a partner to families and find the right fit for each individual. Bloom founded Full Life 12 years ago after a rich career in special education in New York, Virginia, Wisconsin and Oregon. Her vision of what is possible and the gap in opportunities available for disabled adults complemented her determination to create a place that championed these under-served people. Happy Cup Coffee is a social venture providing employment to those with disabilities and putting 100 percent of their profits benefit the disabled. Full Life offers various programs under its umbrella of day programs, physical fitness and wellness, gardening, community outings, vocational opportunities, art and theater, music and a weekly live webcast radio show. The bustling coffee shop, a for-profit venue operated by Bloom’s Full Life employees, is full of chatter, music, reading and games. The bright space on 33rd Street and Sandy Boulevard has artadorned walls, tables and a sitting area, a full-service barista and diverse faces that make up the organization’s participants. This diversity comes together to create a thriving, compassionate and dedicated group of workers, volunteers and employees who are all committed to serving the greater good. The organization’s commitment to community outreach and education, fostering a sense of independence and accomplishment in their employees,
Continued on next page
Happy Cup coffee employees perform a variety of duties to mo Pictured (top right) Crystal Marie Kirkbride and (bottom right) 8
www.spectrumsmagazine.com
LIFESPAN
Getting a diagnosis and creating a care team of psychiatrists and behavioral doctors has completed a brighter future for Snell, he says. He feels supported, encouraged and is “living much more of a life than without [the diagnosis].”
Full Life, continued from previous page providing respite care and addressing the challenge of housing support creates a circle of care within an individual’s entire family. Snell talks with pride about his responsibilities as an employee at the roaster: hand stamping each bag of beans, washing dishes and bagging coffee—as well as his favorite task: “the smell test.” Getting a diagnosis and creating a care team of psychiatrists and behavioral doctors has completed a brighter future for Snell, he says. He feels supported, encouraged and is “living much more of a life than without [the diagnosis].” And giving people a complete and fulfilling life is what Bloom bases her work on. “Everyone has a place in this world,” Bloom says. “Everyone deserves a chance to thrive — a chance at a full life.”
ove the small batch coffee beans from the roaster to consumer. Antoine Dotson. Photos by Jeff Mitchel, www.jeffmitchel.com. www.spectrumsmagazine.com
9
LIFESPAN
trusts
guardianships PLANNING FOR THE FUTURE
Raising a child with special needs comes with a myriad of questions and preparations for life once parents or guardians are gone. The simple answer: begin planning now rather than later.
PART By Tim Nay, MSW In Part one featured in the premiere issue of Spectrums, the importance of early planning to maintain a child’s eligibility for “means tested” benefits including SSI, Medicaid and Public Housing was emphasized. SSI and Medicaid limit a recipient’s assets to $2,000 or less. Direct receipt of an inheritance disqualifies a child until the inheritance is spent down. Quality of life can suffer. Leaving the child with special need’s inheritance to a sibling or someone else with the expectation that the funds be used only for that child is risky. If that person dies, is successfully sued, has tax problems, gets divorced, files bankruptcy or recklessly spends the money, a child with special needs is left high and dry.
of the parents. Federal and Oregon law give added protection to SNT trusts in wills. Using a revocable living trust for the parents’ own estate planning avoids the costs and delays of probate when the parents die. It can also expedite funding of the SNT so the child’s quality of life isn’t put on hold waiting for the estate to be settled.
There are two types of SNTs. A First Party SNT, created by a parent, grandparent, guardian, conservator or a court order for someone under 65, is used when funds are already in the ownership of the child with special needs. This happens when an inheritance was received directly by the child or a personal injury lawsuit results in an award of money damages to the child. Funds remaining in the First Party SNT must repay any state Medicaid programs that reimbursed care costs for the child. Excess funds may then be distributed to family members. A Third Party SNT is created by anyone wishing to benefit the child with funds that were never in the child’s ownership, such as a thoughtfully planned inheritance. The First Party SNT’s under-65-age-limit and Medicaid payback don’t apply.
If a child’s cognitive abilities are severely impacted, it is critical to create the right legal, financial and health care team that can make decisions over several decades. For management of Social Security benefits, applying for Social Security “Representative Payee” status is highly recommended. Once approved, funds are direct deposited into a separate account established by the “Rep Payee” and used for the child’s benefit. For other income or assets, a First Party SNT is advisable.
Many parents struggle to decide how to allocate their estates between a child with special needs and their other children. Although there is no hard and fast rule, parents can weigh the self-sufficiency of their other children against the lifetime needs of the child with special needs while considering the size of their Incorporating a special needs trust (SNT) in the estate planning estate. Parents with large estates tend to equally divide their estate of the parents or other family between the children. If it’s members is the best way of decided that the child with protecting the child’s eligibility special needs will receive a If a child’s cognitive abilities are severely for benefits and providing larger share, it’s wise to have impacted, it is critical to create the right quality of life. The SNT states parents discuss this with the that the funds will be used to siblings to avoid unexpected legal, financial and health care team that supplement—but not replace— surprises that can lead to public benefits. resentment. can make decisions over several decades.
Both SNT types require a trustee to manage and distribute the trust investments for the needs of the beneficiary. Most banks and trust companies won’t serve unless the trust assets exceed $500,000 or more. Often a family member or close friend is nominated to serve as trustee. Choosing a trustee should be a thoughtful process with honesty and the child’s best interest as the two most important attributes. The trustee should employ experienced financial planning and SNT attorney advisers as well as a trust tax preparer. The author recommends creation of Third Party SNTs in the wills of parents, to be “funded” at the death of the surviving parent rather than “living trusts” that are created and funded during the lifetime
10
www.spectrumsmagazine.com
For health care, placement and educational decisions, parental authority without court appointed guardianship is usually sufficient until the child turns 18, the age of majority in Oregon. At that time, court appointment of a guardian is often necessary for parents to direct a child’s health care, living arrangements and education. Parents’ estate planning documents should nominate successor decision makers to step in when parents can no longer serve in these roles. For more information, go to www.naylaw.com to request a free copy of our Legal/Financial Planning Guide. Tim Nay, founding attorney of the Law Offices of Nay & Friedenberg, has been helping families provide security and quality of life for special needs individuals since 1984. Tim’s practice focuses on special needs and benefits planning as well as elder law and estate planning matters.
www.spectrumsmagazine.com
11
LIFESPAN
OREGON AUTISM COMMISSION
RECEIVES GRANT FOR STATEWIDE SUPPORTED EMPLOYMENT TRAINING
Earlier this year, the Oregon Commission of Autism Spectrum Disorder (OCASD) awarded Genevieve Athens, Principal of Autism Lifespan Coach, a grant to conduct autism training for Oregon Vocational Rehabilitation Services (OVRS) counselors around the state. OVRS is a statewide resource for people with disabilities and is part of the Department of Human Services. They assist individuals with disabilities in getting and keeping a job that matches their skills, interests and abilities. Targeted autism training for OVRS is essential as there is an increase in the prevalence of autism and more individuals are receiving the diagnosis later in life. OCASD’s mission is to develop appropriate, collaborative and timely supports and services across the lifespan. This mission is accomplished by the creation and implementation of a longterm strategic plan that increases coordination, promotes best available practice, makes efficient use of resources, and both directly engages with, and better responds to, the needs of people on the spectrum and their families. Athens serves on the Adult Subcommittee of the Oregon Commission of ASD along with six other members. This subcommittee is made up of three self-advocates, all of whom have accessed OVRS throughout their adult lives. The other four subcommittee members are parents of adult children with autism and other disabilities. The grant called for an “Autism 101” on-line training module to be developed with password protection for OVRS staff, counselors, job coaches and other independent contractors working with OVRS clients.
Lack of available jobs
What adult workers (ages 16-65) view as barriers to employment goals*
Attitudinal behaviors
* Source: 2010 Oregon Office of Vocational Rehabilitation Services and State Rehabilitation Council Comprehensive Statewide Needs Assessment
Lack of accommodations
The components for the on-line training module were created by a partnership between Athens, the Adult Subcommittee and longtime website partner Gordon Collette of Intersquare Website Design. The first part of this program is a questionnaire that has been developed for a client that has Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). The more VR personnel knows about a client, the better the employment placement will be for success and longevity. This questionnaire can be included in the packet of information sent to a new client with ASD or can be sent with an email link to fill out electronically. After a completed questionnaire is returned, the next step is for VR staff to walk through the 43-question training module with the client. This module is the backdrop to the ASD questionnaire. The questionnaire poses questions specifically related to people with autism who want to enter the workforce. Information is also provided in the module for VR personnel to identify potential clients who do not have a formal diagnosis of ASD. These resources are both local and national and have been vetted by the Adult Subcommittee of the OCASD for appropriate content. Some are respected national selfadvocate groups and can contain valuable information written from the perspective of an adult living with ASD. Additionally as part of the project, a 5-minute video was produced that explains how users can navigate the website to their best advantage. The video emphasizes the many positive attributes of a person with ASD for gainful employment, such as attention to detail, dedication and honesty. Designing the video focused on using adult Oregonians on the spectrum and not stock photography, Athens explained. Many people with ASD want to work but it’s a matter of finding employment in their interest areas and giving them the right supports and coaching, Athens says. For example, there are questions around sensory issues that adults with ASD may face: noises in the environment that might be distracting; a strong sense of smell which could be problematic in a work environment; challenges with certain fabrics should a job site require a uniform. Other questions were related to preferred working hours, social cognition or if an individual would require breaks throughout the day, above and beyond those given under labor law requirements. The background information web page provides a short synopsis for OVRS staff about the impact the situation may pose to a person experiencing autism and proposed solutions for each situation. The resources identified with each Continued on next page
12
www.spectrumsmagazine.com
Employment Training, continued from previous page background page are local and national groups that were vetted by Athens and Subcommittee members to determine legitimacy and viability of content.
LOCAL VOCATIONAL REHABILITATION RESOURCES Oregon Department of Vocational Rehab
Athens has conducted dozens of autism presentations in Oregon, Washington, North Carolina and at the Autism Society of America national conference. Her experience allows her to understand the impact face-toface training can have. Therefore, the grant proposal included traveling to five cities to provide the training and walk attendees through the website. Administrators from OVRS responded positively to the training and test site and Athens added four additional trainings to her summer schedule.
BEAVERTON Washington County OVRS 8880 SW Nimbus Avenue, Suite D Beaverton, Oregon 97008 (503) 277-2500
Athens traveled throughout Oregon to present trainings in Salem, La Grande, Medford, Eugene, Roseburg, Bend and three offices in Portland. The trainings were well received with close to 100 attendees made up of OVRS counselors, assistants, independent job counselors and coaches.
CLACKAMAS Clackamas OVRS 4382 SE International Way, Suite B Milwaukie, Oregon 97222 (971) 673-6130
Andee Joyce, Adult Subcommittee Chairperson and a self-advocate, presented at an in-service conference in August and, along with module trainings, she shared her personal experiences with OVRS. While no more one-on-one trainings are planned, Vocational Rehabilitation personnel are encouraged to contact the OCASD for more information on how to access the training module and informational website. Please contact staff@ orcommissionasd.org or call (503) 945-9941.
PORTLAND Central Portland OVRS 3945 SE Powell Blvd. Portland, Oregon 97202 (971) 673-2555 East Portland OVRS 305 NE 102nd Avenue, Suite 200 Portland, Oregon 97220-4173 971-673-5858 North Portland OVRS 4744 N Interstate Avenue Portland, Oregon 97217 (971) 673-3055
The proportion of people with disabilities aged 16-65 who were working was less than one-half that of people without a disability aged 16-65*
WOODBURN Woodburn OVRS 120 East Lincoln, Suite 120 Woodburn Oregon 97071 (503) 980-6610
Washington Division of Vocational Rehab VANCOUVER DVR 5411 Mill Plain, Suite 16 Vancouver, WA 98661 Toll free: 1-800-548-0946 (Voice/TTY) (360) 619-7060
*
Source: 2010 U.S. Bureau of Labor statistics
www.spectrumsmagazine.com
13
recreation IDEAS FOR INCLUSIVE WAYS TO HAVE FUN
IN THIS SECTION Dancing on AIR...............................................16
Learning Palace has
Quality Toys
that help boost developmental skills in children of all abilities.
• •
Fine Motor Skills Sensory Awareness
• •
Cognitive Skills Gross Motor Skills
Games, Puzzles, Flash Cards, Art Supplies, Workbooks and more!
20
%
OFF One Regular Priced Item
In-store only. Not valid on sale items. One coupon per customer per visit. Cannot be used with other offers or prior purchases. Other restrictions may apply. Expires: 12/31/13.
Portland
Beaverton
9971 NE Cascades Pkwy Portland, OR 97220
3861 SW 117th. Beaverton, OR 97005
Clackamas
Gresham
503-794-5696
503-661-0865
503-251-1833
503-644-9301
11750 SE 82nd Ave. 818 NW Eastman Parkway Clackamas, OR 97086 Gresham, OR 97030
Salem
Vancouver
3832 Center St NE 7809 NE Vancouver Plaza Dr. Salem, OR 97301 Vancouver, WA 98662
503-587-8992
360-896-1574
Family-owned and locally operated since 1982
We are a dental practice limited to treating children and special needs patients.
Advanced Pediatric Therapies specializes in treating sensory processing disorders by:
Sedation dentistry • emergency services • General anesthesia Nitrous oxide and chairside treatment • ceramic crowns 2150 NE Division Street, Ste 201 (503) 666-9436 • babymolar@gmail.com www.babymolar.com
• Promoting Self-regulation • Increasing Physical Development • Challenging Motor Planning Skills • Increasing Confidence • Developing Cognitive and Social Skills
advancedpediatrictherapies.com Portland & Vancouver locations: (360) 885.4684 www.spectrumsmagazine.com
15
RECREATION
ON AIR PORTLAND PARKS & RECREATION ADAPTIVE RECREATION INCLUSIVE PROGRAM BRINGS PEOPLE TOGETHER WITH MONTHLY DANCES
By Courtney Freitag Since the 1980s, the Portland Parks and Recreation’s Adapted and Inclusive Recreation (AIR) program has offered a safe and social environment with its monthly dances. On the first Friday of each month, Mt. Scott Community Center in Southeast Portland fills with nearly 200 people with varying physical and developmental disabilities. With live entertainment or a DJ spinning music, the dances draw people from all over the Northwest and provide a healthy and social option not often available to people with disabilities. “The dance is important so that people can socialize with old and new friends,” says retired AIR Program Director Debbie Timmins. “Most of the participants never went to a high school dance, so the AIR dance gives them an experience that they might not have otherwise.” Formerly known as Disabled Citizens Recreation, the AIR program was started in 1964 and is considered one of the top specialized community recreation programs in the United States, according the their website. The AIR program serves people of all ages and types of special needs at sites throughout the city, including Portland Parks and Recreation’s community centers and community schools. For David Kannard, 44, the AIR dance has been a part of his life for 25 years. The Portland resident said his favorite part is seeing the many friends he has made, being able to dance and of course the music.
16
www.spectrumsmagazine.com
“I think this dance is so needed,” says Nancy Kannard, David’s mother. “Many don’t have other outlets and they NEED this. They might not do anything else and the dance is all they probably have.” There is a wide range of recreational programs and opportunities for anyone who has a disability or has a special need, no matter what the age. The current catalog has class offerings in swimming, adaptive bike riding, community outings and bowling. Equal opportunities are provided for people with and without disabilities to take part in classes and activities through the program in the most inclusive setting. To participate through AIR, individuals meet with an Inclusion Specialist who will conduct an informational interview and a planning. The inclusion staff will then assist an individual on site at the first class of the chosen program and assessments are determined if further assistance is needed. For more information, contact the Adaptive and Inclusive Recreation (AIR) program at (503) 823-4328 to register or email kevin.mattias@portlandoregon.gov. Pre-registration is not required for the monthly dances and more information is available online at www.portlandparks.org.
RECREATION The AIR Dance happens the first Friday of every month at the Mt. Scott Community Center, 5530 SE 72nd Avenue in Portland. Admission is $5 per person and refreshments are provided. INFORMATION: (503) 823-4328
www.spectrumsmagazine.com
17
education KNOWLEDGE TO EMPOWER FAMILIES AND PEOPLE ON THE SPECTRUM
IN THIS SECTION Homeschooling the special needs student......19
18
www.spectrumsmagazine.com
www.spectrumsmagazine.com
19
EDUCATION
Homeschooling the special needs student
By Courtney Freitag Many families with a child on the autism spectrum struggle to find the right fit when choosing which school or model to educate their K-12 student. Whether the student struggles with anxiety, bullying, sensory sensitivities, medical conditions, standardized academic parameters or customized scheduling, homeschooling has proven to be a viable option. When families choose to homeschool, the choice is made to take full responsibility of education for their own children. And it can mean different things to different people—for some it’s reclaiming the family unit and learning together, for others it is out of necessity to nurture a child who otherwise could not thrive in a traditional daytime school setting. And for some, homeschooling finds them by default. “It was not my intention to homeschool, but I have found that it is such a natural fit for our family,” said Mary Bradford of Beaverton. “My husband and I work opposite shifts and this way, someone is always with our little one in order to provide the care he needs.” Bradford’s 10-year-old son went through the channels of public school, special education classrooms, homebound instruction and finally homeschooling due to complex medical needs and an autism diagnosis. Side effects from medication and hospital visits because of his seizure disorder made the daily routine of public school impossible. Greater flexibility, the ability to monitor their son in a safe environment and educate year-round have allowed the Bradfords to grow closer as a family. “I love working with him on his school work and know exactly where his skill levels are at everyday,” she said. The Oregon Home Education Network (OHEN) is a statewide email- and phone-based network to help connect homeschooling parents, supply information on testing, provide instruction on how to start homeschooling and answer questions on working with local school districts. In-person workshops for parents and families are also available upon request. Gina Reich Guzman, hotline co-coordinator and homeschooling parent of three children, became a member of OHEN eight years ago and went on to head up the email hotline. She says the organization fields up to 100 emails a month depending on the season and people do not have to be a member of OHEN to seek advice or ask questions. The organization holds several social events throughout the year, including its annual “Not Back to School Day” which draws hundreds from throughout Oregon. Guzman uses her special education degree and extensive experience to homeschool her three children, ages 18, 16 and 13, all of whom have varying learning disabilities. It has allowed her to tailor each child’s curriculum, group activity size, learning environment and better understand their individual needs and limitations. The family has also
20
www.spectrumsmagazine.com
Continued on next page
EDUCATION
It’s this flexibility and ability to tailor and individualize the learning process that makes the homeschooling choice so appealing to many families. “Every day is different which is one thing I love about homeschooling,” said Beaverton mom of two, Amy Merwin. “We have a morning routine when we do ‘desk work’ like language arts and math. After that, depending on the day, we’ll have something like swim lessons or gymnastics class.” Merwin’s two children, 7-year-old Kyle who is on the autism spectrum and Elsa, age 4, who is neurotypical, just completed their first year of homeschool instruction. After their local school did not handle a bullying situation and online instruction didn’t seem like the right fit, Merwin said she chose to homeschool. The experience has been very fulfilling; allowing field trips to area attractions, music and fitness classes as well as playdates with friends. Homeschooling has worked well for 7-year-old Kyle Merwin who is on the autism spectrum and his 4-year-old sister, Elsa. Homeschooling, continued from previous page supplemented at the Beaverton campus of Village Home Education Resource Center, a choice-based learning community that “creatively integrates family, education and real life to empower learners of all ages.” For working parents, Guzman said there are homeschooling co-ops that may be a viable option for instituting this type of education without being the actual instructors. Co-ops divide students into various age groups, are founded and run by parents and generally held throughout the Portland metro area in rented spaces. “Homeschooling and special needs really goes hand-in-hand,” Guzman says. “There isn’t someone between us getting in the way of meeting their needs.”
“I love being able to make our own schedule and base it around the needs of each of my two children. They each get the special instruction they need from me as well as the benefits of outside instruction from classes like ballet and violin lessons.” Kyle has qualified for speech-language therapy through the school district at the local elementary for no charge. Combined with a strong network of homeschooing families, Merwin said they use the local libraries, community centers and parks to complement the academic learning experience. The groups often swim, visit the local fire station and do other activities together to enhance social skills. The Oregon Department of Education reports that children between ages 7-18 must notify their Education Service District within 10 days of beginning to homeschool or withdrawing their child from school or moving to a new ESD region. Since the 1999-2000 school year, parents were required to register their homeschooled children only at the age of compulsory Continued on page 27
Homeschooling in Oregon and Washington Laws and rules vary between Oregon and Washington. Please visit each state’s education department for a full list of requirements or contact your local Education Service District (ESD). Testing is required in grades 3, 5, 8 and 10 Testing or assessment is required annually A Declaration of Intent to Provide Home-Based Instruction must be filed annually A Declaration of Intent to Provide Home-Based Instruction must be filed once Parents must meet certain criteria to qualify as a homeschool teacher Homeschool student is allowed by law to participate in local school district’s interscholastic activities (e.g., sports, cheerleading, band, etc) Special needs homeschool students are able to access therapies through their local school districts (e.g., Speech-therapy, OT, etc)
www.spectrumsmagazine.com
21
wellness PROMOTING HEALTH AND WELL-BEING
IN THIS SECTION Puberty and sexuality.....................................24 Self-advocacy saved my life............................26 “My Turn”......................................................28
22
www.spectrumsmagazine.com
WE’VE CHANGED OUR NAME! THE ARTZ CENTER IS NOW...
Helping children and their parents touched by ASD or ADHD to detoxify, ease stress and anxiety, and heal physically and emotionally. Reiki replenishes and rebalances this energy and amplifies our innate abilities to heal ourselves. In doing so, it balances the mind, body and spirit, activating a feeling of wellbeing. Reiki is an effective therapy which can help your child with: • The challenges of sleep troubles • Relaxation, anxiety, stress, sensory overload • Empower self-soothing, gain confidence, and self-esteem
Team-based care to help children realize their full potential. Our services include:
Autism Spectrum Disorder diagnostics • Comprehensive care coordination and problem solving • Medical management and monitoring • Parent coaching/education • Direct treatment • Social language groups • Specialized behavioral management and support
503.228.6479 | www.childrenspdx.org
Michael Krol, Reiki Master Practitioner and father of a child on the spectrum (503) 208-5129 • www.rakureiki.com
www.spectrumsmagazine.com
23
HEALTH & WELLNESS
PUBERTY The necessary conversations
24
www.spectrumsmagazine.com
HEALTH & WELLNESS
By Marci Hammel Puberty: possibly one of the scariest words a parent is confronted with. However, puberty will happen whether we want it to or not. With some preparation and good strategies, you and your family can get through this period with your wits intact. After working in the field for over 25 years, I have found that the more prepared we are and the more we pre-teach, the more smooth the transition can be. In my puberty and sexuality workshops, I get parents used to saying the words “penis,” “masturbation,” “testicles,” “pubic hairs,” “vagina,” “breasts” and “menstruation” by saying them out loud as a group. Once people get past this, the subject suddenly becomes less stressful. Be proactive. It is never too early to begin. As parents, it is natural to want to insulate our children from the harsh realities of puberty and sexuality. However, urges and desires happen; bodies mature and it cannot be repressed. Talking about these things early eases the process significantly, makes it more a part of life and can make the difficult conversations more comfortable. When your child is younger, teach the difference between public and private. This can be in regards to body parts, places and behaviors. A good time to teach body parts is during bath time when you can also decipher private and public. As your child grows older, definitions can become more specific, evolve or even change. Take hugging for example: there are times in life when it is acceptable to hug and other times when it is not. As a person progresses through the different stages of life, hugging changes. It is OK when you are younger but peers generally stop hugging each other around second grade and can begin again in middle and high school. Adjusting to your child’s needs and continuing the conversation throughout the different ages and stages will ease the difficulty of bringing up subjects that can be difficult. If your child engages in a private activity or conversation in public, interrupt or move to a more private area to model where these types of conversations should take place.
Children on the spectrum should continue to learn and be aware about abuse and what is an appropriate and what is an inappropriate behavior. Activities such as touching their private parts in public or putting hands down their pants should not be punished or shamed, however demonstrate real life situations whenever possible to give clear distinctions. What is being used with typical peers and can I adapt it for my child with ASD? Often parents express concern that if they bring up the subject of sex it will encourage thoughts of engaging in it, however, there is no positive correlation between knowledge of and interest in sex. When we fail to discuss the issues of sexuality, we may be actually put children in harm’s way. It creates vulnerability and can set them up for bullying with a greater risk of exploitation. Information and skill development instead of crisis intervention can change a person’s life. By teaching your child about sex and relationships you can keep them safer and provide information that can help them make better choices. Children on the spectrum can struggle to pick up on the subtleties of relationships as easy as neurotypical children. This makes sex education more important. What do we have to look forward to in puberty? Puberty brings many exciting changes in a child’s body. Here are some of the changes your adolescent may experience: • Acne starts to develop so the need to wash their face more often. • Their hair becomes greasier, body odor begins and body and facial hair begins to develop. These changes add the need to shower more often, shave and to use deodorant. • In males, their voice begins to change, an Adam’s apple appears, and their body becomes broader. • Erections and wet dreams begin. • Parents of girls can prepare to discuss menstruation, developing breasts and wearing a bra. • Most importantly, your adolescent will Continued on page 29 www.spectrumsmagazine.com
25
HEALTH & WELLNESS
HOW
SAVED MY LIFE. By Andee Joyce Six years ago, by the time of my 44th birthday, I was in a downward spiral, feeling like I was capable of nothing and that there was no hope for me. I thought nobody could possibly like me, love me, or respect me—and if they said they did, they were probably lying. I had a life partner, but I was sure he would leave me once he figured out what a loser I was (despite the fact that he had stuck around for two years knowing everything about me). I was probably halfway on my way to dying, quite possibly by my own hand. Today, six years following my diagnosis of Asperger’s syndrome, I am the Portland Chapter Lead for Autistic Self-Advocacy Network (ASAN), a member of the Oregon Council on Developmental Disabilities and the self-advocate representative on the Oregon State Commission on Autism Spectrum Disorder. I also serve as chair of the OCASD’s Adult Subcommittee which has developed the new Vocational Rehabilitation module and client checklist (see article on page 12). I’ve met with legislators, written for multiple anthologies, created webinars, organized protests and vigils, educated psychiatry residents, spoken on panels and done multiple other things I never thought I could do before. I’m beginning to believe I might actually have a purpose, a role in making other people’s lives fuller and better. And the life partner is still here, and we just celebrated our eighth anniversary, the longest and best relationship either of us has ever had. Self-advocacy, quite literally, saved my life. I’m not sure my success in this field has depended on having any kind of special talents, so much as it has depended upon showing up and saying yes to things other people refused to
do. Or at least saying, “I’ll try it and see what happens.” Prior to my diagnosis, my career dreams had all gone down the tubes when I couldn’t manage my social and sensory issues well enough to succeed the way I wanted to, and so I assumed that I was capable of nothing much. Once I recognized that I had a disability, and that my “failure” had nothing to do with not trying hard enough, or being lazy or incompetent, I figured there might be some things I could do if I was willing to work with the brain I had, rather than against it. But I didn’t know what those things were just yet, until I tried them. When I was first diagnosed, I went into a horrible depression spiral after realizing that I could never become the person I had always wanted to be: someone who could function on six hours of sleep, grab a cup of coffee, and go go go go go, always with a smile, always graceful even on three-inch heels, effortlessly making friends and contacts, knowing exactly what to say and when to say it, never coming down with migraines or digestive problems at exactly the wrong time. After my therapist diagnosed me, I was referred to a psychiatrist who had only been in practice a few years and had limited experience with autistic adults. It turned out I had as much to teach him as he did me. He was so impressed by what I had to say that he asked me if I would be willing to have psychiatry residents sit in on my medication appointments. He said he would understand completely if I said no, because most people would, but I said yes. I wanted doctors to know about my disability, and the ways it could present in adults who had gone undiagnosed for decades (since the diagnosis of Asperger’s didn’t exist when we were kids), and too many of them didn’t have that knowledge, which is why it took me 44 years to be diagnosed. If I could help prevent that from happening to someone else, I was willing to talk to them. And they were blown away. My psychiatrist told me that one of the residents had told him, “I would drive across town to hear her speak.” It was my turn to be blown away! Me, a public speaker? Never in my wildest dreams would I have thought I could do that. But now I do it all the time. Similarly, when I first started going to the ASAN monthly meetings and saw all that the Chapter Lead had to manage, my first thought was, “I could never do that.” And when she asked me to take over as Chapter Lead, I knew it was because nobody else wanted to do it. But I did. I wanted to see what I was capable of. A lot more than I thought, it turns out. This year, our chapter won an Administration on Intellectual and Developmental Continued on next page
26
www.spectrumsmagazine.com
e most
Homeschooling, continued from page 21
of th ink one
I th
my Impor tant things in
life has been sorting out om my real limitations fr self-imposed
my
false ones.
registration, withdrawal from public schools or if they moved to an area served by another ESD. It’s estimated that approximately 20,000 students are homeschooled in Oregon, according to the ODE’s 2011-2012 homeschool data collection report, and 40,000 Washington homeschooled students, as reported by the Kids Count Data Center’s 2012 statistics. However, parents are not required by law to provide advance notification to their local school district of intent to educate their children at home. Therefore, the current process may give an inaccurate picture of the number of children currently participating in home schools, the ODE website says. Many districts are currently unable to account for homeschooled children who move out of the district and may be home schooling or attending public schools in other areas. Additionally, there are requirements in both Oregon and Washington set in place to certify parents or caregivers to homeschool children. Washington state law requires that homeschool educators meet one of the following:
Self-advocacy, continued from previous page Disabilities (AIDD) mini-grant to become a stand-alone 501(c)(3) nonprofit and create an online informational clearinghouse for services available to autistic adults in Oregon–and I wrote the grant! Not bad for someone who, until a few years ago, thought she couldn’t do anything. I think one of the most important things in my life has been sorting out my real limitations from self-imposed false ones. I know what some of my real limitations are because I’ve tested them repeatedly. I will always have poor executive functioning and will need to avoid things like credit cards or extensive checkwriting, because trying over and over again to keep all that straight just got me into more and more trouble. I will always have problems getting up in the morning, because my body clock has wired me to be a night person. I will always have issues with reading people in a social setting, especially if I don’t know them. My body will always be super sensitive to all sensations, especially pain, and will often respond with migraines, digestive problems, and other minor maladies. I understand that now, and I honor it. But no longer do I look at things I haven’t tried which sound like they could be interesting, and automatically respond with, “Oh no, I could never do that.” All I have to do is look at my resumé, which I have built over the past few years, and I say, “Wow, I did all that? Me?” Yes, I did. Me. Andee Joyce is a writer, speaker, and disability self-advocate, who was born in Brooklyn, New York and has lived in Portland since 2005. Since arriving in Portland, she has gotten a proper diagnosis, fallen in requited love with the man of her dreams, and discovered her life purpose, which proves to her that Portland is magic. She is currently working on a young adult novel about autism and baseball, two great tastes that taste great together.
• • • •
Have earned 45 quarter units of college level credit Attend a Parent Qualifying Course (see your state’s requirements) Work with a certificated teacher who meets with your student on the average of an hour a week Be deemed sufficiently qualified to provide home- based instruction by the superintendent of your local school district
Washington homeschool students are required to participate in annual testing, according to state laws. Oregon laws dictate testing at grades 3, 5, 8 and 10 with a letter of intent to homeschool submitted to the local ESD. Testing can be either a non-test assessment, a one-on-one evaluation with a certified teacher, or a standardized test that is approved by the state’s Board of Education and is administered by a qualified neutral individual. Parents are encouraged to keep good records, including test scores, assessment reports, immunization reports, IEPs as well as records related to homeschool instruction and education activities. Laws do not necessarily dictate how or what form the records are kept and they are able to be kept private, however can be requested by school administration if a child is later enrolled in a traditional school setting. There are a myriad of resources online that assist with sorting out the requirements, rules, laws and rights to homeschooling. And for many, it’s been the best educational move for their children. “We had a fun and educational year of homeschooling this year and if I had to do it all over again, I wouldn’t change a thing.”
www.spectrumsmagazine.com
27
HEALTH & WELLNESS
MY TURN ONE PERSON’S STORY OF LIFE WITH AUTISM
By Jacob DC Ross My own journey as someone living with autism has two starting points. Of course I’ve lived with the condition for my entire life, but like many, my diagnosis came when I was well into adulthood. I was alone on the day that I received my diagnosis; my wife was on a weekend beach retreat with her family. I was seeking treatment for a recent diagnosis of bipolar disorder and left the counselor’s office in a daze. While I’d always known that I thought differently than most other folks, I attributed this to my above-average intelligence level. I had always presumed that I was much like everyone else, only more introverted. Yet here was a label, incontrovertible proof that I was an outsider. Autism was nothing new to me. While I had always accepted others for who they were and defended them, I knew that so many in society looked down on people with autism and this affected me. In the space of an hour I went from the man I had always thought myself to be to a diminished person. It’s strange, but that night I felt as if society had checked a box next to my name in some great census that read “sub-human.” In his book Asperger’s from the Inside Out, John Michael Carley writes that when he received his diagnosis that he “took a walk,” mentally reviewing his past in a new context. I saw in the next few days how my life was different than that of neurotypical people. Moments where I didn’t “get it” seemed clear to me now. It was as if everyone else was constantly in on jokes whose punchlines I couldn’t understand. The state of confusion and self-pity was not long-lived. With the help of faith, friends, family and Carley’s book, I began to accept myself as a person again. Nobody I knew judged me. It was amazing to see that it brought me closer to my parents and others, as if they too had “taken a walk” and now everything that we had done together now made sense. A few of them even said that they had always known that I was autistic and assumed that I had also known! I’m grateful to my friends and family. It’s through a strong support group that I’ve been able to function as an adult. Without reminders and help I would simply forget to pay my rent on time,
I had always presumed that I was much like everyone else, only more introverted. Yet here was a label, incontrovertible proof that I was an outsider.
28
www.spectrumsmagazine.com
do my laundry or simply not get some of the basic things that my friends pick up on with little effort. My advice is to never let pride With the support of his wife, Amy, or shame the birth of their daughter, Jaco and b Ross keep you discovered he wasn’t a “joyless robot.” from seeking the help you need; you’ll be surprised at how much your people really love you if you let them. I’ve mentioned a wife, Amy. She’s the wonderful girl who for whatever reason decided that I was marriage material. My biggest concern from my diagnosis was for her. I worried that I was emotionally incapable of being a good husband. In my mind I seemed at best like the emotionally-repressed character Spock, and at worst like the uncaring sociopaths in crime novels. In the past I’d neglected and hurt my wife through a lack of empathy and with the diagnosis I believed that I was not able to love her. Amy’s been an amazing support. She literally and figuratively held my hand through everything. She’s supportive, forgiving and loving like nobody else in my life. A few months after my diagnosis, Amy was pregnant. The surge of happiness and elation reminded me that I was not a joyless robot. The miscarriage a month later was the lowest point in my life. It’s strange, but it was then when I realized finally that autism doesn’t make me any less human. The deep sense of loss, for my baby, my wife and myself spoke as much of love as it did of grief. Seeing my poor wife’s sorrow and knowing that I couldn’t take it away and reflecting for hours on end of the pain that she must have been feeling told me that I had the capacity for empathy. I’m a dad now; my little one came a year and three days after we lost our first. I know now, after the hardest journey that I’ve ever taken, that I have the capacity for love and empathy. My heart is just as human as that of anyone else. I could write volumes, but I’ll just leave you now with what I’ve learned. You must rely on your loved ones, let them accept you and open your heart to them as wide as you can. A full, rich life is within reach if you trust yourself to live it. A lifelong Oregonian, Jacob DC Ross is a family man and freelance writer living in Portland with his wife and his daughter.
Girls growing up on the Autism Spectrum By Gina Marie Moravcik, Samara Pulver Tetenbaum, Shana Nichols
Autism-Asperger’s & Sexuality By Future Horizons
Making Sense of Sex: A Forthright Guide to Puberty, Sex and Relationships for People with Asperger’s Syndrome By Sarah Attwood
Puberty and sexuality, continued from page 25 be capable of reproduction. For girls, this is once they start menstruating; for boys once they are fully developed and the testicles can produce sperm. Explain that showering daily is much more important now and wearing clean clothes will be important for others to want to be near. It may be time to move from products for children to products for adults (ideas might be to put in their favorite shampoo bottle or watch for teens on TV using the product). Also evaluate your own environment: do you incorporate privacy into the home daily? Begin practicing closing the door when dressing and wearing a robe after exiting the shower or to and from the bathroom. How to start the conversation Before beginning the process of talking about puberty and sexuality with your child, examine your attitudes, values and beliefs towards sexuality so you can be and concise. Find out what your child knows by asking open-ended questions such as: • “What have you heard about___?” • “What did they tell you in school about___?” • “Have you heard the word ___?” This open discussion begins to show what misconceptions or lack of information needs to be clarified. Talk openly and honestly and use correct terminology when teaching (however, it is important to teach slang phrases also). Use the same teaching strategies that you have used to teach your child other skills (visuals, charts, social narratives, lists and videos). Teach the “why” so your child knows why these things happen or are necessary to do. Teach in small steps and check in with the child during the conversation to ensure they understand. Keep it positive and acknowledge a job well done or a really good effort.
control is where and when to do it. I teach people to show a visual that says, “at home, in bed.” I prefer visuals because they do not draw attention to the behavior since we don’t want our children interpreting sex or their behaviors as negative. A behavior is not as likely to be excessive if it is accepted. Adolescence is a period marked by curiosity, independence and exploration—all very healthy! Individuals on the autism spectrum often have difficulties with “theory of mind” so keep this in mind when teaching the “why” about a certain behavior. Ignorance can breed fear and supplying information, at whatever level, can empower a person to develop his or her own judgment. Puberty is a time about learning who they are, gaining control and being their own person to develop health lifelong habits. Marci Hammel is an Autism Specialist and a foster parent of a child with ASD. Before becoming an Autism Specialist, Marci was a classroom teacher and worked with students with severe disabilities ranging in age from elementary to high school as well as adult transition programs. Since 1989, Marci has been involved with Autistic Community Activity Program (ACAP) and has served as the Program Director since 1995 as well as serving on the Board of Directors for the Autism Society of Oregon (ASO). She has given numerous workshops, classes, webinars, and staff education series about ASD through Columbia Regional Program, North Clackamas University as well as guest lecturing at PSU, PCC, and various other colleges throughout the area.
Masturbation After working with so many adolescents and adults with ASD, I have found one thing for sure: the need to masturbate cannot be repressed—it is a normal part of life. The part we, as parents, can www.spectrumsmagazine.com
29
therapy THERAPEUTIC OPTIONS FOR AUTISM
IN THIS SECTION Relationship Development Intervention (RDI®) ........... 32 Directory of therapy options........................................ 33
30
www.spectrumsmagazine.com
autumnfest for
autism A benefit gala for
October 19, 2013 6:30-10:30 p.m. Madeleine Parish & School 3123 NE 24th Avenue, Portland Benefiting families and children affected by autism by providing scholarships for critical treatments and supporting local center-based programs.
Silent & live auction • Semi-formal • Entertainment Buy tickets online: ahopeforautism.net $50/person • $350 table for 8 Questions? (503) 516-9085 sponsored by
PLAY. THINK. THRIVE. PEDIATRIC OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY, NE PORTLAND groundplaytherapy.com | 971-888-5265
www.spectrumsmagazine.com
31
THERAPY
what is
RELATIONSHIP DEVELOPMENT INTERVENTION®?
By Barbara Avila As you already know, when autism enters your family’s life, dreams need to be adjusted due to the challenges your child faces. Ten years ago, Relationship Development Intervention® (RDI) developers began to specifically target the obstacles to qualityof-life that are often posed by autism. RDI consultants challenged parents and autism providers to question the use of academic and behavioral measures of success. Such measures are not helping those with autism become happy and self-satisfied adults. RDI is founded on addressing autism as something that affects the whole family, the primary source of remediation and relationship skill development. As a certified RDI consultant, I continue to ensure progress for children using the research-based Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) that I have used for more than 20 years prior to my RDI certification. RDI allows me to also use family systems therapies such as Cognitive Behavior Therapy, current developmental and brain research with students and cutting edge research about regarding how the parent-child relationship can shape and support children. RDI has three phases: Phase one helps families out of crisis if necessary; Phase two promotes parental self-care and stresses the importance of taking care of themselves to become better parents; Phase three strives to guide people on the autism spectrum to discover success in our dynamic, ever-changing social world.
Photo by Peter Burdett
32
www.spectrumsmagazine.com
It is said that “if you have met one child with autism, you have met one child with autism.” I feel that “if you have met one family experiencing autism, you have met one family experiencing autism.” Every family is different from their family culture, values, expectations and personalities. Each family presents differently in the journey of each child’s success in complex and social thinking and needs individualized family support. For example, in working with one
family, I am able to help the mother who is experiencing her daughter’s severe aggression, not only with behavior management but with also raising her awareness that her daughter can learn and follow family expectations just like her older two children. In another case, I am able to guide a family with teen boys to think positively again and create routine activities within their days to work on nonverbal communication together. In yet another, I support a family who needs to allow their child of any age to be increasingly independent but needs to know how, when and where. RDI consultants use the Family Consultation Program and Dynamic Intelligence Curriculum. Each consultant has unique qualities that they bring when treating families throughout regions around the world. The curriculum provides clear guidelines and RDI consultants are required to remain active, renewing our certification annually. In my years as a teacher and as a consultant, the RDI curriculum for both students and parents is like no other I have practiced or studied. When guiding those on spectrum to success as adults, it starts in a family’s own home and community. Families may have assignments ranging from prioritizing top three house rules, to taking just 10 minutes a day to be with their child with no electronics with the goal of building trust in less demanding, more sharing situations. Parents are often guided to have a date night at least once per month, go nonverbal as a whole family for 10 minutes of a daily routine (e.g., dinner preparation), sit down with their child/teen/ adult and plan for something, experience it, then review together how it went. In conclusion, the family can begin planning for the next similar situation or help the person on the spectrum to take one risk or challenge per day. This transfers the responsibility for navigating new and dynamic situations to the person on the spectrum. RDI discipline allows me to meet a family where they are in their journey and provide guidance into social development realms such as joint attention and shared conversations, which are foundations for adult life satisfaction in work and relationships. I am a part of a larger, world-wide community of parents and professionals all dedicated to improving the quality of lives now and in the future, while experiencing autism. Barbara Avila is the owner and director of Synergy Autism Center in southwest Portland as well as certified in Relationship Development Intervention. She has been in the autism field for over 25 years and is a teacher, parent as well as a knowledgeable guide for families to better understand their challenges while celebrating the aspects of autism and parenting.
THERAPY
DIRECTORY of THERAPY OPTIONS www.spectrumsmagazine.com
THE PORTLAND/SW WASHINGTON METRO AREA IS A HOST TO EXPERT PROVIDERS, THERAPISTS AND PROFESSIONALS. Spectrums Magazine began with a vision of creating a comprehensive and tangible guide of therapy options and resources—all in one place. Our directory features the most up-to-date contact information for therapy options and our website is a hub for the latest news and information on everything from health and wellness, education, tutoring, insurance, employment and much more. While we can’t endorse, promote or guarantee the services or outcome of any one provider or type of therapy, this directory was compiled with community input. And we want yours: if you would like to be added to our online directory, please email info@spectrumsmagazine.com. APPLIED BEHAVIOR ANALYSIS (ABA) ABA Learning Solutions 15915 SW Stratford Loop B, Tigard (503) 381-8440 • www.abaportland.com abalearningsolutions@hotmail.com A Hope for Autism (see ad on page 31) 2900 SW Peaceful Lane, Portland (503) 516-9085 • www.ahopeforautism.net robbin_ahfa@yahoo.com AKA Consulting LLC (971) 258-5555 www.akaconsultingportland.com alice@akaconsultingportland.com Advanced Behavioral Concepts (971) 344-9440 www.advbehavioralconcepts.com sschaefer@advbehavioralconcepts.com Autism Behavioral Consulting (see ad on page 19) 9901 NE 7th Ave. Suite C-116, Vancouver (360) 619-2462 • www.autismabc.org info@autismabc.org
Northwest Young Autism Project 15685 SW 116th Avenue, King City (503) 620-9952 • www.nyapllc.com info@nyapllc.com
Nature Cures Clinic 1020 SW Taylor Street, Suite 330, Portland (503) 287-4970 • www.naturecuresclinic.com info@naturecuresclinic.com
Play Connections 15100 SW Koll Pkwy, Suite A, Beaverton (503) 737-4693 • www.playconnections.com mshaw@playconnections.com
Northwest Natural Medicine 2305 SE Washington Street, #104, Milwaukie (503) 786-2181 • nwnaturalmedicine.com GetWell@nwnaturalmedicine.com
Portland Autism Center 10300 SW Greenburg Road #240, Portland (503) 206-6285 www.portlandautismcenter.com
Oregon City Acupuncture 619 Madison, Suite 110, Oregon City (503) 653-1468 • www.ocacu.net OCACU@ocacu.net
Synergy Autism Center 7739 SW Capitol Hwy, #220, Portland (503) 432-8760 www.synergyautismcenter.com synergyautismcenter@gmail.com
Portland Wellness Center 6274 SW Capitol Hwy, Portland (503) 245-6516 • portlandwellnesscenter.com
ACUPUNCTURE Acupuncture Northwest 2256 N Albina Avenue, Suite 190, Portland (503) 493-9389 • acupuncturenwpdx.com acupuncturenorthwest@gmail.com
BCABA Michelle Anderson (407) 865-1509 miiluanderson@hotmail.com
East-West Acupuncture 3703 SE Cesar E Chavez Blvd, Portland (503) 231-4101 www.southeastportlandacupuncture.com steve@southeastportlandacupuncture.com
Building Bridges 112 SW Pennoyer Street, Portland (503) 235-3122 • www.bridgespdx.com beth@bridgespdx.com
Flourish Natural Medicine 9999 SW Wilshire Street, #212, Portland (503) 477-7915 • www.FlourishNM.com DoctorMathers@FlourishNM.com
Christine Shaw 2816 NE 12th Avenue, Portland (206) 406-0060 Life Tools Jennifer Knipling, MA, BCBA (503) 853-9408 • ABALifeTools@gmail.com
Flying Crane Acupuncture 7875 SW Alden Street, Portland (503) 608-8155 • flyingcraneacupuncture.com marilynwalkey@flyingcraneacupuncture.com
Melissa Gard, Ph.D., BCBA (612) 432-4135 • Melissa4135@gmail.com
Natural Healing Center 9970 SW Beaverton Hillsdale Hwy, Suite 100 Beaverton • (503) 641-3444
Red Pony Medicine (503) 724-2790 • redponymedicine.com christina@redponymedicine.com 3 locations: 10424 SE Cherry Blossom Drive, Portland 1417 SE 107th Avenue, Portland 8709 SE Causey Avenue, Portland RiverWest Acupuncture (see ad on page 31) 3314 SW Kelly Avenue, Portland (503) 246-0103 www.riverwestacupuncture.com Singing Bird 1235 SE Division Street, #201, Portland (971) 344-3393 • www.singingbirdpdx.com andrea@singingbirdpdx.com ANIMAL-ASSISTED THERAPY Autism Service Dogs of America www.autismservicedogsofamerica.org info@autismservicedogsofamerica.org Canine Companions for Independence (800) 572-2275 • info@cci.org Continued on next page www.spectrumsmagazine.com
33
THERAPY
Therapy options, continued from page 33 Creative Therapy Solutions 5232 N Interstate Avenue, Portland (503) 922-1345 • www.ctcportland.com info.creativetherapy@gmail.com Dogs for the Deaf (Autism Assistance Dogs) 1-800-990-3647 • www.dogsforthedeaf.org info@dogsforthedeaf.org Therapy Gone to the Dogs 5410 SW Macadam Avenue, #270, Portland (503) 764-9508 • therapygonetothedogs.org AQUA THERAPY Innovative Services Northwest (see ad on page 15) 9414 NE Fourth Plain Road, Vancouver (360) 892-5142 • innovativeservicesnw.org mhoffman@innovativeservicesnw.org
DANCE/MOVEMENT THERAPY
Patty Ehlers 1010 Washington Street, #280, Vancouver (360) 699-6374 www.pattyehlers-speechtherapy.com
Juliana Friedman 4110 SE Hawthorne Blvd, #723, Portland (503) 250-4373 • JulianaFriedman@yahoo.com
BIOFEEDBACK + NEUROFEEDBACK Advanced Neurofeedback Clinic 2301 NW Thurman Street, Suite A, Portland (503) 243-7907 • www.nurofeed.com kana@nurofeed.com Biofeedback & Behavioral Management 9450 SW Barnes Road, #255, Portland (503) 292-0707
Providence Macadam Therapy Pool 5757 SW Macadam Avenue, Portland (503) 215-2233 kathleen.ziegler-ramsay@providence.org
Insights to Health 2929 SW Multnomah Blvd, #302, Portland (503) 501-5001 • www.insightstohealth.net info@insightstohealth.net
ART THERAPY
OT Solutions 5115 SE 38th Avenue, Portland www.otsolutionspdx.com info@otsolutionspdx.com
Annette Shore, MA, ATR-BC, NCC 1942 NW Kearney Street, Suite 31, Portland (503) 222-1807 • www.nwarttherapy.com annetteshore@comcast.net Cheri Epstein 2929 SW Multnomah Blvd, #201, Portland (971) 205-2708 • www.nwarttherapy.com Children’s Health Art Project (CHAP) 1910 SE 11th Avenue, Portland (503) 243-5294 • www.chap.name info@chap.name Christine Turner 525 1st Street Suite 110, Lake Oswego (503) 635-8122 Erica Fayrie 2931 NE Broadway, Portland (503) 953-0234 • www.ericafayrie.com contact@ericafayrie.com Erika Johnson 2901 SE Clinton Street, Portland (503) 236-7884 • Erika.k.johnson@gmail.com Face in the Mirror Counseling 599 Weidman Court, Lake Oswego (503) 201-0337 • www.fitmc.org info@fitmc.org AUDIOLOGY Center for Communication & Learning Skills 14674 Rainbow Drive, Lake Oswego (503) 699-9022 www.commlearningskills.com
34
Children’s Developmental Health Institute (see ad on page 23) 1675 SW Marlow Avenue, Portland (503) 802-5273 • www.childrenspdx.org audiology@childrenspdx.org
www.spectrumsmagazine.com
CHIROPRACTIC Avista Chiropractic & Wellness 1201 SW 12th Avenue, Suite 600, Portland (503) 224-2425 www.avistachiropractic.com Body Elements Chiropractic Clinic 5231 NE Martin Luther King Jr Blvd, Portland (503) 477-6322 www.bodyelementspdx.com info@bodyelementspdx.com
Disability Art and Culture Project (503) 238-0723 • dacphome.org disabilityartculture@gmail.com
North Clackamas Parks and Recreation Department (Various inclusive classes. Check website.) 150 Beavercreek Road, Oregon City Shelli Vrabel, Recreation Coordinator (503) 742-4371 • www.ncprd.com svrabel@clackamas.us Polaris Dance Theater All Access Dance 1501 SW Taylor Street, Portland (503) 380-5472 • www.polarisdance.org colleen@polarisdance.org Portland Parks and Recreation (Various inclusive classes. Check website.) 1120 SW 5th Ave #1302, Portland (503) 823-PLAY www.portlandoregon.gov/parks/ Sensory Kids (see ad on page 7) 1425 N Killingsworth Street, Portland (503) 575-9402 • www.sensorykidsot.com info@sensorykidsot.com Tualatin Hills Park & Recreation District (Various inclusive classes. Check website.) 15707 SW Walker Road, Beaverton (503) 645-6433 • www.thprd.org DEVELOPMENTAL/BEHAVIORAL PEDIATRICIAN
ChiroPlus Wellness Center 109 SE 101st Avenue, Vancouver (360) 256-6748 • www.wellness101.com dr.wellnesscenter101@gmail.com
Children’s Developmental Health Institute (see ad on page 23) 1675 SW Marlow Avenue, Portland (503) 802-5291 • www.childrenspdx.com marym@childrenspdx.com
Dr. Chris Chlebowski 923 NE Couch Street, Portland (503) 236-9609 • www.drchrischlebowski info@drchrischlebowski.com
Dr. Peter Biasco OHSU CDRC 707 SW Gaines Avenue, Portland (503) 346-0644
Natural Healing Center 9970 SW Beaverton Hillsdale Hwy, Suite 100, Beaverton (503) 641-3444 www.naturalhealingbeaverton.com
Dr. Gregory Blaschke OHSU CDRC 707 SW Gaines Avenue, Portland (503) 346-0644
Strasser Chiropractic 2100 NE Broadway, Suite 101, Portland (503) 287-2800 • www.drstrasser.com info@drstrasser.com
Dr. Sara Cuthill Kaiser Permanente 3550 N Interstate Avenue, Portland (503) 249-5526 Continued on next page
Therapy options, continued from page 34 EQUINE THERAPY
IN-HOME SERVICES
B.E.A.T. Riding Center 41919 NW Wilkesboro Road, Banks (503) 324-3071 • www.beatriding.org
Dr. Robin McCoy Children’s Program 7707 SW Capitol Hwy, Portland www.childrensprogram.com info@childrensprogram.com
Forward Stride 18218 SW Horse Tale Drive, Beaverton (503) 590-2959 • www.forwardstride.org
Autism Behavioral Consulting (See ad on page 19) 10000 NE 7th Avenue, Suite 110, Vancouver (360) 619-2462 • www.autismabc.org info@autismabc.org
Dr. Mary Lynne O’Brien Kaiser Permanente 3600 N Interstate Avenue, Portland (503) 249-5526 • kaiserpermanente.org Dr. Michele Raddish Providence Neurodevelopmental Center for Children 830 NE 47th Avenue, Portland (503) 215-2533 Evergreen Pediatric Clinic (Legacy Salmon Creek) 2101 NE 139th Avenue, #370, Vancouver (360) 892-1635 www.evergreenpediatrics.com Evergreen Pediatric Clinic (PeaceHealth Southwest) 505 NE 87th Avenue, #120, Vancouver (360) 892-1635 www.evergreenpediatrics.com DIR/FLOOR-TIME Autism Behavioral Consulting (see ad on page 19) 10000 NE 7th Avenue, Suite 110, Vancouver (360) 619-2462 • www.autismabc.org info@autismabc.org Advanced Pediatric Therapies 4444 SW Multnomah Blvd, Portland (503) 245-5639 www.advancedpediatrictherapies.com Children’s Developmental Health Institute (see ad on page 23) 1675 Southwest Marlow Avenue, Portland (503) 228-6479 • www.childrenspdx.com Family Connections Northwest 2001 H Street, Vancouver (360) 993-0866 • leahreitzrdi@yahoo.com Pacific Northwest Pediatric Therapy 4305 SE Milwaukie Avenue, Portland (503) 232-3955 • pnpt1@comcast.net www.rosemarywhitepediatricservices.com Sensory Kids (see ad on page 7) 1425 N Killingsworth Street, Portland (503) 575-9402 • www.sensorykidsot.com info@sensorykidsot.com
Healing Winds 12414 NE 212th Avenue, Brush Prairie (360) 254-5387 • gogoomba@aol.com
Beyond the Clinic 10600 SE McLoughlin Blvd, Suite 202, Milwaukie (503) 496-0385 • beyondtheclinic.com info@beyondtheclinic.com
Silver Buckle Ranch 11611 NE 152nd Avenue, Brush Prairie (360) 260-8932 • info@silverbuckleranch.org
CDM Long-term Care Services 2409 Broadway Street, Vancouver (360) 896-9695 • www.cdmltc.org
Sycamore Lane Therapeutic Riding Center 13921 Clackamas River Drive, Oregon City (503) 593-7084 • www.sycamorelane.org
Children’s Nursing Specialties 9900 SW Greenburg Road, #290, Portland 1-866-968-2401 • www.cnsnursing.org cnsi@cnsnursing.org
FAMILY PHYSICIANS Children’s Program 7707 SW Capitol Hwy, Portland (503) 452-8002 www.childrensprogram.com Dr. Jennifer Lyons The Vancouver Clinic Columbia Tech Center 501 SE 172nd Avenue, Vancouver (360) 882-2778 Dr. Mary Lynn O’Brien Kaiser Division Clinic 7705 SE Division Street, Portland (503) 777-3311 • www.kaiserpermanente.org Integrative Pediatrics 11790 SW Barnes Road, Bldg. A, #140 Portland www.integrativepediatricsonline.com office@integrativepediatricsonline.com The Evergreen Center 516 High Street, Oregon City (503) 722-4270 childrenandautism.com/evergreen-center/ theevergreencenter@msn.com Pediatric Associates of the Northwest (Two locations) 2701 NW Vaughn, Suite 360, Portland (503) 227-0671 www.portlandpediatric.com 4103 SW Mercantile Drive, Lake Oswego (503) 636-4508 www.portlandpediatric.com Thomas Koch, M.D. Doernbecher Children’s Hospital Neurology 745 SW Gaines Road, Portland (503) 494-5856 www.ohsu.edu/xd/health/services/ doernbecher/programs-services/neurology/
THERAPY
Dr. John Liedel Children’s Program 7707 SW Capitol Hwy, Portland www.childrensprogram.com info@childrensprogram.com
Steele Speech Language Therapy 1827 NE 44th Avenue, Portland (503) 810-5921 • www.pdxspeech.com erica@pdxspeech.com Tamerlano Speech & Language Services 3945 NE 37th Avenue, Portland (503) 481-5426 • tamerlanosls@yahoo.com Heather Thompson, M.A. CCC-SLP 14585 SW 87th Avenue, Tigard (503) 505-4516 • heatherthompsonslp.com heatherthompsonslp@gmail.com MASSAGE THERAPY Healthful Healing Massage (503) 724-5771 HeathfulHealing@yahoo.com Red Bird Speech and Language (503) 583-2314 • www.redbirdspeech.com Paige@redbirdspeech.com MENTAL HEALTH THERAPY Brooke Psychologists (Two locations) 516 SE Morrison Street, Suite 1010, Portland (503) 235-8696 x2 www.brookepsychologists.com drmbrooke@brookepsychologists.com 400 E Evergreen Blvd, Suite 208, Vancouver (503) 235-8696 x2 Catherine Pivetti 3433 NE Sandy Blvd, Portland (503) 388-9028 • JoyPivet@aol.com
Continued on next page
35 Spectrums Magazine does not represent, endorse, sponsor or guarantee any of the treatment or therapy options listed. The list is presented as a community service and readers are encouraged to investigate options with a licensed therapist, treatment professional or provider for more information and options. www.spectrumsmagazine.com
THERAPY
Therapy directory, continued from page 35 Collective Perspectives Terry McCall Ellis and Amber E. Bathon 5201 SW Westgate Drive, Suite 105, Portland (971) 264-7025 • www.cptts.org Counseling for Moms 5234 NE Farmcrest Street, Hillsboro (503) 459-2073 www.counselingformoms.com Creative Connections Counseling Services (503) 309-8671 www.debra-creativeconnections.com Carol B. Markovics 1880 Willamette Falls Drive, Suite 230 West Linn (503) 305-8505 • dr.carol@mac.com Edie Dietzen, M.A., M.S., L.M.F.T. 800 A Officer’s Row, Vancouver (360) 953-0169 • www.ediedietzen.com Edie@EdieDietzen.com Erin Beery 823 NE Broadway, Portland (503) 487-0253 Family Body Talk 2807 SW Moss Street, Portland www.familybodytalk.com kim@familybodytalk.com
Heart & Soles Dance Instruction and Music Therapy Services (503) 706-0129 heart-n-soles.weebly.com/about.html creativeclinical@gmail.com
Mental Health Association of Oregon 620 SW 5th Avenue, 5th Floor, Portland (503) 243-2081 • www.oradvocacy.com mhaoregon@oradvocacy.org
Music Therapy Services of Portland (971) 221-7144 www.musictherapyportland.com
Neurobehavioral Concepts 1609 Willamette Falls Drive, West Linn (503) 803-9361 • www.neurobx.com lonny@neurobox.com Patrick Ethel-King (see ad on page 31) 9400 SW Beaverton-Hillsdale Highway, Suite 210, Beaverton (503) 352-0240 • www.nhws.us Peggy Piers 7739 SW Capitol Hwy, Suite 220, Portland (503) 977-2411 • www.peggypiers.com piers.p@comcast.net Portland Autism Center 10300 SW Greenburg Road, Suite 240, Portland • www.portlandautismcenter.com (503) 206-6285
In Touch Counseling 203 SE Park Plaza Drive, Park Tower II Suite #105, Vancouver (360) 718-8544 • www.intouchcounseling.com better@intouchcounseling.com
Psychologists Services to You (in-home treatment) 818 NW 17th Ave #6, Portland (503) 349-9973 www.psychologicalservicestoyou.com drebittner@comcast.net
Karen Joy Campbell 516 SE Morrison St., Suite 310, Portland (503) 998-7030 • morejoy2_2000@yahoo.com
Rita L Smith 2929 SW Multnomah Blvd, #105, Portland (503) 427-8943
Kimberly Johnson (503) 260-8971 www.counselingforportland.com kimberly@counselingforportland.com
Robert Finkelman 1305 NE Fremont Street, Portland (503) 258-7971 • www.robertfinkelman.com therapy@robertfinkelman.com
Katie Statman-Weil, MSW, MS (503) 564-0131 • www.nurturingtherapy.com
Sundstrom Clinical Services 8440 SE Sunnybrook Blvd., # 120, Clackamas (503) 653-0631 • www.sundstromclinic.com info@sundstromclinic.com
Kathy J. Marshack PO Box 873429, Vancouver (360) 256-0448 • www.kmarshack.com info@kmarshack.com Leslie Carter 9600 SW Oak Street, Suite 280, Tigard (503) 807-7413 • www.drlesliecarter.com Life Choices Counseling Center 7000 SW Hampton Street, Suite 204, Tigard (503) 446-5199 www.lifechoicescounselingcenter.com eklearman@hotmail.com
36
Linda Fishman, Ph.D 720 SW Washington Street, Suite 340, Portland (503) 227-4211 • www.lindafishman.com info@lindafishman.com
www.spectrumsmagazine.com
Notable Connections Music Therapy (503) 961-3326 • notableconnections.com notableconnections@gmail.com Self Express Music (971) 221-5428 • www.selfexpressmusic.com emily@selfexpressmusic.com UpBeat Music Therapy 16200 SE 18th Way, Vancouver (360) 607-8187 www.upbeatmusictherapist.com info@upbeatmusictherapist.com OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY Advanced Pediatric Therapies (see ad on page 15) 4444 SW Multnomah Blvd., Portland (503) 245-5639 • www.aptot.com sharron@aptot.com Assistive Technology NW 2100 NE Broadway #119, Portland (503) 536-6733 • www.assistivetechnw.com Carrie@AssistiveTechNW.com Celebrate the Senses 1509 SW Sunset Blvd. Suite 1K, Portland (503) 810-0275 • celebratethesenses.com Children’s Developmental Health Institute (see ad on page 23) 1675 Southwest Marlow Avenue, Portland (503) 228-6479 • www.childrenspdx.com Creative Therapy Connections 5232 N Interstate Avenue, Portland (503) 922-1345 • www.ctcportland.com Early Choice Pediatric Therapy 106 E 15th Street, Vancouver (360) 750-5850 • ecpt4me@gmail.com
Western Psychological & Counseling Services (Various location throughout the metro area) Groundplay Therapy Works (503) 233-5405 • www.westernpsych.com (see ad on page 31) 5220 NE Sacramento Street, Portland Wholistic Mental Health Offices (971) 888-5265 203 SE Park Plaza Drive www.groundplaytherapy.com Park Tower II, Suite 105, Vancouver mikki@groundplaytherapy.com (360) 433-2286 • wholisticmentalhealth.com Innovative Services Northwest MUSIC THERAPY (see ad on page 15) 9414 NE Fourth Plain Road, Vancouver Cresendo Music Therapy Services (360) 892-5142 20650 NE Halsey Street, Fairview www.innovativeservicesnw.org (503) 887-9298 crescendomusictherapy.com/home Continued on next page
Therapy directory, continued from page 36
Legacy Salmon Creek Medical Center 2211 NE 139th Street, Vancouver (360) 487-1000 • www.legacyhealth.org Neurotherapeutic Pediatric Therapies 610 High Street, Oregon City (503) 657-8903 • nt4kids.org/#/home New Horizons Wellness Services (see ad on page 31) 9400 SW Beaverton-Hillsdale Highway, Suite 210, Beaverton (503) 352-0240 • www.nhws.us OHSU CDRC 707 SW Gaines Street, Portland (503) 494-8095 www.ohsu.edu/xd/health/childdevelopment-and-rehabilitation-center/ index.cfm
Providence Neurodevelopmental Center for Children (see ad on page 39) Gerry Frank Center for Children’s Care 9155 SW Barnes Road, Portland (503) 216-2339 oregon.providence.org/patients/programs/ providence-neurodevelopmental-center-forchildren/Pages/default.aspx Pacific Northwest Pediatric Therapy 4305 SE Milwaukie Avenue, Portland (503) 232-3955 • pnpt1@comcast.net Sensory Kids (see ad on page 7) 1425 N Killingsworth Street, Portland (503) 575-9402 • www.sensorykidsot.com info@sensorykidsot.com Therapy Solutions for Kids 5200 SW Macadam Avenue, #100, Portland (503) 224-1998 www.therapysolutionsforkids.com info@therapysolutionsforkids.com
OT Solutions 5115 SE 38th Avenue, Portland www.otsolutionspdx.com info@otsolutionspdx.com
Thrive Therapeutics 2135 N Humboldt Street, Portland (503) 753-6943 • thrivetherapeutics.com thrivetherapeutics@gmail.com
Pacific Northwest Pediatric Therapy 4305 SE Milwaukie Avenue, Portland (503) 232-3955 • pnpt1@comcast.net
Westside Pediatric Therapy 12525 SW 3rd Street, Beaverton (503) 641-2767 • www.therapykidz.com info@therapykidz.com
Pediatric Sensory Therapy 6635 N Baltimore Avenue, #229, Portland (503) 477-9527 • www.pdxpediatrics.com lisa@pdxpediatrics.com Pediatric Therapy Services 532 N Main Avenue, Gresham (503) 666-1333 • www.oregonpts.com Play 2 Grow 18959 SW 84th Avenue, Tualatin (503) 563-5280 • www.weplay2grow.com carol@weplay2grow.com Randall Children’s Hospital at Legacy Emanuel Pediatric Rehabilitation 2801 N Gantenbein, Suite 2225, Portland (503) 413-4505 • www.legacyhealth.org Providence Neurodevelopmental Center for Children (see ad on page 39) East Portland Providence Child Center 830 NE 47th Avenue, Portland (503) 215-2233 oregon.providence.org/patients/programs/ providence-neurodevelopmental-center-forchildren/Pages/default.aspx
RDI® Barbara Avila, M.S. Synergy Autism Center 7739 SW Capitol Hwy, Suite 220, Portland (503) 432-8760 barbara@barbaraavilaconsulting.com
OHSU CDRC 707 SW Gaines Street, Portland (503) 494-8095 www.ohsu.edu/xd/health/childdevelopment-and-rehabilitation-center /index.cfm Providence Neurodevelopmental Center for Children (see ad on page 39) East Portland Providence Child Center 830 NE 47th Avenue, Portland (503) 215-2233 oregon.providence.org/patients/programs/ providence-neurodevelopmental-center-forchildren/Pages/default.aspx Providence Neurodevelopmental Center for Children (see ad on page 39) Gerry Frank Center for Children’s Care 9155 SW Barnes Road, Portland (503) 216-2339 oregon.providence.org/patients/programs/ providence-neurodevelopmental-center-forchildren/Pages/default.aspx Randall Children’s Hospital at Legacy Emanuel Pediatric Rehabilitation 2801 N Gantenbein, Suite 2225, Portland (503) 413-4505 • www.legacyhealth.org SOCIAL SKILLS + GUIDED PLAY A Hope for Autism (see ad on page 31) 2900 SW Peaceful Lane, Portland (503) 516-9085 • ahopeforautism.net Robbin_ahfa@yahoo.com Aspiring Youth 68 SW Miles Street, Portland 888-458-0481 • www.aspiringyouth.net info@aspiringyouth.net
Kaiser Permanente 3550 N Interstate Avenue, Portland (503) 331-5040 • kaiserpermanente.org
Autism Behavioral Consulting (see ad on page 19) 9901 NE 7th Ave. Suite C-116, Vancouver (360) 619-2462 • www.autismabc.org info@autismabc.org
Legacy Emanuel Pediatric Development and Rehabilitation 2801 N Gantenbein Avenue, Suite 2225 Portland • (503) 413-4505 www.legacyhealth.org
Brooke Psychologists, LLC 516 SE Morrison Street, #1010, Portland (503) 235-8696 x2 www.brookepsychologists.com drmbrooke@brookepsychologists.com
Legacy Meridian Park Medical Center Pediatric Rehabilitation 19250 SW 65th Avenue Medical Plaza 1, Suite 125, Tigard (503) 692-1670 • www.legacyhealth.org
Building Bridges 0112 SW Pennoyer Street, Portland (503) 235-3122 • www.bridgespdx.com beth@bridgespdx.com
REHABILITATION
Legacy Salmon Creek 2211 NE 139th Street, Vancouver (360) 487-1000 • www.legacyhealth.org
THERAPY
Legacy Meridian Park Medical Center Pediatric Rehabilitation 19250 SW 65th Ave, #125, Tualatin (503) 692-1670 • www.legacyhealth.org
Children’s Developmental Health Institute (see ad on page 23) 1675 SW Marlow Avenue, Portland (503) 228-6479 • www.childrenspdx.com Continued on next page www.spectrumsmagazine.com
37
Therapy Options Directory, continued from page 37 New Horizons Wellness Services (see ad on page 31) 9400 SW Beaverton-Hillsdale Highway, Suite 210, Beaverton (503) 352-0240 • www.nhws.us
Communicating Together 3014 NE Ainsworth Street, Portland (503) 224-2820 www.communicatingtogether.com kerryr@communicatingtogether.com
Pathways for Potential 10151 SW Barbur Blvd, Suite 108, Portland (503) 201-7750 • pathwaysforpotential.com sue@pathwaysforpotential.com
Creative Connections Counseling Services (503) 309-8671 www.debra-creativeconnections.com debra@debra-creativeconnections.com
PlaySpace (see ad on page 19) 3014 NE Ainsworth, Portland (503) 224-2820 • www.pdxplayspace.com info@pdxplayspace.com
D’Onofrio & Associates 1827 NE 44th Avenue, Suite 20, Portland (503) 808-9919 • www.donofrioslp.com
Playful Intervention 7824 SE 13th Avenue, Portland (503) 735-5870 • www.playfulintervention.com info@playfulintervention.com Small Talk Speech Therapy Angela Arterberry, MS, CCC-SLP (503) 358-8182 • MissASpeech@gmail.com Social Kraft (503) 381-9344 • www.socialkraft.net socialkraft@me.com SPEECH-LANGUAGE PATHOLOGY All About Speech 8196 SW Hall Blvd, Suite 114, Beaverton (503) 641-2005 • allaboutspeech.net
Early Choice Pediatric Therapy 106 E 15th Street, Vancouver (360) 750-5850 • ecpt4me@gmail.com Gresham Speech Therapy 4336 SE Viewpoint Drive, Troutdale (503) 312-9362 • www. gst-d2l.com/gst Heart to Heart Speech Therapy 2855 Hayes Street, Suite 101, Newberg (503) 901-5652 Jamie.Heart2heart@gmail.com Jo Workinger (503) 422-3337 • www.joworkinger.com
Assistive Technology NW 2100 NE Broadway #119, Portland (503) 536-6733 • assisstivetechnw.com Carrie@AssistiveTechNW.com
Kelli Murdock Eickelberg, SLP 7701 SW Cirrus Dr, 32-D, Beaverton (503) 520-5030 KelliEickelbergSLP@hotmail.com
Barbara Erskine Speech Therapy 8513 NE Hazel Dell Ave, Suite 201, Vancouver (360) 573-7313 and 7000 SW Hampton Street, Suite 127, Tigard (503) 675-7711 • www.erskinetherapy.com info@erskinetherapy.com
Legacy Meridian Park Medical Center Pediatric Rehabilitation 19250 SW 65th Avenue Medical Plaza 1, Suite 125, Tigard (503) 692-1670 • www.legacyhealth.org
Buckendorf & Associates 10300 SW Greenburg Road, #410, Portland (503) 517-8555 www.buckendorfassociates.com ba.info@buckendorfassociates.com Center for Communication & Learning Skills 371 6th Street, Lake Oswego (503) 699-9022 • www.commlearningskills.com Children’s Developmental Health Institute (see ad on page 23) 1675 SW Marlow Avenue, Portland (503) 228-6479 • www.childrenspdx.com
38
Dvortcsak Speech and Language Service 818 SW 3rd Avenue, #68, Portland (503) 887-1130 • www.dslsi.com info@dslsi.com
www.spectrumsmagazine.com
Legacy Salmon Creek Medical Center 2211 NE 139th Street, Vancouver (360) 487-1000 • www.legacyhealth.org New Horizons Wellness Services (see ad on page 31) 10700 SW Beaverton-Hillsdale Hwy, Building 3 Ste. 618, Beaverton (503) 352-0240 • www.nhws.us NW Speech Therapy (503) 512-9355 • (360) 747-7144 www.nwspeechtherapy.com info@nwspeechtherapy.com
Play 2 Grow Developmental Therapy Services 18959 SW 84th Avenue, Tualatin (503) 563-5280 • www.weplay2grow.com carol@weplay2grow.com Providence Neurodevelopmental Center for Children (see ad on page 39) 830 NE 47th Avenue, Portland (503) 215-2233 oregon.providence.org/patients/programs/ providence-neurodevelopmental-center-forchildren/Pages/default.aspx Providence Neurodevelopmental Center for Children (see ad on page 39) Gerry Frank Center for Children’s Care 9155 SW Barnes Road, Portland (503) 216-2339 oregon.providence.org/patients/programs/ providence-neurodevelopmental-center-forchildren/Pages/default.aspx Providence Neurodevelopmental Center for Children (see ad on page 39) 310 Villa Road, Suite 101, Newberg (503) 537-3546 oregon.providence.org/patients/programs/ providence-neurodevelopmental-center-forchildren/Pages/default.aspx Providence Rehabilitation Services 270 NW Burnside Street, Gresham (503) 215-2233 oregon.providence.org/patients/facilities/ providence-rehabilitation-services-gresham/ Pages/default.aspx Randall Children’s Hospital at Legacy Emanuel 2801 N Gantenbein, Suite 2225, Portland (503) 413-4505 www.legacyhealth.org/health-services-andinformation/health-services/for-children-a-z/ development-and-rehabilitation.aspx Red Bird Speech and Language (503) 583-2314 • www.redbirdspeech.com Paige@redbirdspeech.com Scottish Rite Center Kid Talk 5125 SW Macadam Avenue, #200, Portland (503) 226-1048 • www.kidtalkoregon.org nfo@kidtalkoregon.org Small Talk Speech Therapy Angela Arterberry, MS, CCC-SLP (503) 358-8182 • MissASpeech@gmail.com Speech Language Pathology LLC 6035 SW Florida Street, Portland (971) 255-1961 www.speechtherapypdx.com
Coordinated care for children with autism Providence Neurodevelopmental Center for Children offers a full range of autism services, including: ■ Social-skills training and day camps ■ Team assessment and case management with a developmental pediatrician and pediatric psychologist ■ Nutrition services and feeding clinics ■ Parent-training program and co-therapies For information or an appointment, please call one of our clinics: Providence Child Center 503-215-2233 Providence St. Vincent Medical Center 503-216-2339 Providence Newberg Rehab and Pediatric Services 503-537-3546 www.ProvidenceOregon.org/pncc
www.spectrumsmagazine.com
39
Dental care for families of children with special needs Make a trip to the dentist more smile-worthy. At Providence Specialty Pediatric Dental Clinic, children and young adults receive excellent dental care in a safe, fun environment. Our dentists and staff welcome patients ages 1 to 21 with behavioral, developmental and medical needs, and their siblings too. Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re changing the world of special-needs pediatric dentistry, one smile at a time! Our clinic is conveniently located in Providence Child Center at 830 NE 47th Ave., Portland, Ore. For more information, call 503-215-1056 or visit www.ProvidenceOregon.org/pediatricdental.
Providence Child Center offers families of children with special needs comprehensive services through Swindells Resource Center, Providence Neurodevelopmental Center for Children and the Center for Medically Fragile Children.