UH-Clear Lake offers services for children with autism

Parents of children with Autism Spectrum Disorders between the ages of 3- and 8-years-old now have more resources for treatment through the University of Houston-Clear Lake Center for Autism and Developmental Disabilities. Beginning May 1, faculty and students within the university’s applied behavior analysis program will provide individualized services at no cost to families. The services, provided in partnership with the Mental Health and Mental Retardation Authority (MHMRA) of Harris County, are being funded through a grant awarded by The Texas Department of Assistive and Rehabilitative Services.

Center Director and Professor of Psychology Dorothea Lerman will oversee graduate students as they provide interventions to assist the children. Children will receive individualized training that is designed to reduce problem behaviors and to develop age-appropriate social, self-help, school readiness and language skills. Family members and caregivers will also benefit by learning how to continue the training methods at home.

To find out more about the center and these new services for children with autism, call 281-283-3437, or e-mail lerman@uhcl.edu.  To request services, contact MHMRA Program Manager Melinda B. Benjumea at 713-970-8241.