How Parents Experience Profound Autism: One Size Doesn’t Fit All A discussion hosted by Catalight and Behavioral Health Business that explores parent experiences with profound autism. Profound autism is far more common than autism accompanied by exceptional intellectual ability. Today, 1 in 36 children are diagnosed with autism, according to the CDC. Of that group, per data from the National Council on Severe Autism, between 30 and 50% of parents will learn that their child’s autism is severe or profound and complicated by co-occurring intellectual disability – resulting in the need for their child to have lifelong care. Catalight’s Chief Clinical Officer Doreen Samelson, Ed.D., MSCP, and Jackie Kancir, executive director of the National Council on Severe Autism, discussed profound autism and the experience of parents and families navigating the diagnosis. Viewers gained insights on the diagnostic process, information families should know and the state of care for children with the diagnosis. Key takeaways include: The prevalence of profound autism and its growth over recent decades Current research on the causes of profound autism and co-occurring diagnoses The state of policy and advocacy work around profound autism Steps families should take after diagnosis Recommendations for navigating the care journey and its transitions, such as from childhood to adult care Speakers Doreen Samelson EdD, MSCPChief Clinical Officer of Catalight Jackie KancirExecutive Director of the National Council on Severe Autism Event Details Date: September 17, 2024 Hosted by About One Size Doesn’t Fit All When it comes to caring for people with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and other intellectual and developmental disabilities, one size does not fit all. Catalight, one of the largest behavioral health networks in the United States, advocates for personalized approaches that give options in care and strives to innovate beyond the standard in search of greater wellbeing for the individuals and families it supports.
