We compiled the following resources to provide information and education about autism spectrum disorder:

• Autism Speaks has grown into the world’s leading autism science and advocacy organization, dedicated to funding research into the causes, prevention, treatments and a cure for autism; increasing awareness of autism spectrum disorders; and advocating for the needs of individuals with autism and their families.
• The Parent Educational Advocacy Training Center. PEATC’s mission is to build positive futures for Virginia’s children by working collaboratively with families, schools and communities in order to improve opportunities for excellence in education and success in school and community life. PEATC offers services and support for families and professionals, easy-to-understand, research-based information and training and opportunities for strategic partnerships and advocacy for systemic improvement.
• Commonwealth Autism’s mission is to build the capacity of the autism service provider network through partnership and collaboration. This agency offers tools for assessment, training, research, and service delivery to help public and private service providers meet the needs of individuals with autism.
• Do2Learn provides thousands of free pages with social skills and behavioral regulation activities and guidance, learning songs and games, communication cards, academic material, and transition guides for employment and life skills to assist teachers and parents in strengthening the abilities of children diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder.
• Autism Spectrum Therapies (AST) provides extensive information, guidance and services for the families of children diagnosed with autism.
• Future Horizons: Devoted entirely to supporting and fostering the dissemination of information about autism and Asperger’s syndrome through books, conferences, and other media and programs, Future Horizons has grown to be a world leader in publications and conferences on autism and Asperger’s syndrome.
• The Yale Seminar on Autism and Related Disorders is the United States’ first undergraduate course of its kind. The goal of this website is to make the entire lecture content and supporting materials available online for free for anyone who desires to learn about autism spectrum disorders.
• DisabilityLawVA: This law group specializes in the legal representation of individuals with disabilities.
• TakeChargeofAustism: Throughout this site, you’ll find a wealth of information about autism spectrum disorders and answers to many common questions. This site also provides listings and information about schools and treatment facilities located in Connecticut, Florida, Georgia, Pennsylvania and Utah.
• The TEACCH approach is a family-centered, evidence-based practice for autism, based on a theoretical conceptualization of autism, supported by empirical research, enriched by extensive clinical expertise, and notable for its flexible and person-centered support of individuals of all ages and skill levels. Learn more here.

The Hughes Center’s professional staff are here to help. Call 434-836-8500. In case of a mental health crisis, call 988 or seek the nearest emergency room.