New Jersey has made significant strides in addressing the needs of individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and their families. The state’s efforts are coordinated through various agencies and programs designed to provide comprehensive support. Here’s a detailed look at the resources available for New Jersey residents with children with autism.
Department of Human Services (DHS)
The New Jersey Department of Human Services (DHS) plays a pivotal role in administering services for individuals with developmental disabilities, including those with autism. Through its Division of Developmental Disabilities (DDD), established in 1959, DHS ensures that individuals receive quality services and supports, participate meaningfully in their communities, and exercise their right to make choices.
Division of Developmental Disabilities (DDD)
The DDD is New Jersey’s lead resource agency for individuals with developmental disabilities. It offers a wide range of programs and services, addressing various diagnoses within the scope of intellectual and developmental disabilities. The DDD’s mission focuses on enhancing the quality of life for individuals by providing necessary services and supports.
Adults with Autism Task Force (AWATF)
In a move to better serve adults with ASD, New Jersey established the Adults with Autism Task Force (AWATF). Administered by DHS, the Task Force was created to recommend programs and services that address the unique needs of adults with autism. One key recommendation led to the creation of the Office on Autism (OOA) within the DDD.
Office on Autism (OOA)
The OOA serves as a one-stop resource to address issues associated with ASD within the DDD. One of its first initiatives was the formation of an Interdepartmental ASD Workgroup. This Workgroup enhances communication, collaboration, and coordination among state agencies providing services to residents with ASD. Participating departments include Human Services, Children and Families, Community Affairs, Education, Labor and Workforce Development, and Health.
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Autism: A Family Guide for Navigating the New Jersey Service Systems
To aid families, the ASD Workgroup developed “Autism: A Family Guide for Navigating the New Jersey Service Systems for Individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder and other Developmental Disabilities.” Now in its fourth edition, this guide is an invaluable resource for families seeking to understand and access state programs and services for individuals with ASD. It captures a wide array of state-based programs and provides updates on ongoing state initiatives.
Diagnosing ASD in New Jersey: Child Evaluation Centers
New Jersey supports a network of ten Child Evaluation Centers (CECs), which provide comprehensive, multidisciplinary evaluations for children with neuro-developmental and behavioral disorders. After evaluation, these centers develop individualized service plans (ISPs) in collaboration with families. The cost of diagnostic evaluations varies by center, but no child is denied access due to lack of insurance or inability to pay. Families should contact the centers directly to explore options regarding insurance, sliding scale fees, private pay, or other funding sources.
Contact Information for Child Evaluation Centers in New Jersey
- Children’s Regional Hospital at Cooper University Hospital
Address: Three Cooper Plaza, Camden, NJ 08103-1489
Phone: (856) 342-2257 - Children’s Specialized Hospital (Greenville)
Address:Center for Children with Special Needs, 1825 John F. Kenney Blvd. 3rd Floor, Jersey City, NJ 07305
Phone: (201) 915-2059 - Jersey Shore University Medical Center
Address: Medical Arts Building, 81 Davis Ave, Suite 4, Neptune, NJ 07753
Phone: (732) 776-4178 ext 2 - John F. Kennedy Medical Center
Address: 2050 Oak Tree Road, Edison, NJ 08820
Phone: (732) 548-7610 - Children’s Specialized Hospital (Egg Harbor Township)
Address: 6106 Black Horse Pike, Egg Harbor Twp, NJ 08234
Phone: (888) 244-5373 or (908) 233-3720 - St. Joseph’s Children’s Hospital
Address: DePaul Ambulatory Care Center, 11 Getty Ave, Paterson, NJ 07503
Phone: (973) 754-2510 - Morristown Memorial Hospital
Address: 435 South St. Suite 250, Morristown, NJ 07962
Phone: (973) 971-5227 - Children’s Seashore House of the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia
Address: 4009 Black Horse Pike, Mays Landing, NJ 08330
Phone: (609) 677-7895 ext. 33463 - Children’s Specialized Hospital (Mountainside)
Address: 150 New Providence Rd., Mountainside, NJ 07092
Phone: (888) 244-5373 or (908) 233-3720 or (908) 301-5511 - Rutgers/New Jersey Medical School
Address: 185 South Orange Avenue, F509, Newark, NJ 07107
Phone: (973) 972-8930
Key Programs and Services Highlighted in the Guide
Educational Support: New Jersey offers various educational programs tailored to the needs of children with autism, ensuring they receive appropriate educational opportunities.
Health Services: The Department of Health provides resources and support for managing the health and well-being of individuals with autism.
Housing Assistance: The Community Affairs department, through the Housing and Mortgage Finance Agency, offers programs to assist families with housing needs.
Employment and Workforce Development: The Department of Labor and Workforce Development provides resources and programs aimed at helping individuals with autism gain meaningful employment.
Family Support Services: The Department of Children and Families offers various support services to help families navigate the challenges of raising a child with autism.
Local Non-Profit Organizations
In addition to state resources, New Jersey is home to numerous local non-profit organizations that offer intensive and comprehensive programs to address service needs not fully covered by state government. These organizations are vital partners in the state’s effort to support individuals with autism and their families.
In Summary
Navigating the array of resources available for children with autism in New Jersey can be overwhelming, but the state has made concerted efforts to streamline access through various agencies and collaborative efforts. The “Autism: A Family Guide for Navigating the New Jersey Service Systems” serves as a crucial starting point for families seeking assistance. By leveraging these resources, families can ensure their children receive the support they need to thrive.
AGBS provides ongoing care for children, adolescents, and young adults with autism to improve the quality of their lives. If you would like learn more about how AGBS can help please contact us here , or call 908-913-0443.
