Autism: Start Here | What Families Need to Know

WHO’S WHO

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Neurologists are physicians who specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of neurological disorders, such as epilepsy and autism. Neurologists participate in multidisciplinary teams to evaluate an individual for a suspected diagnosis. They conduct brain imaging tests and provide medical recommendations for various neurological conditions. For more information: www.aan.com Neurologist Occupational Therapists help individuals improve their fine motor skills such as writing and cutting, and they also teach daily living skills to increase independence and active participation in life. OTs work in a variety of settings, including homes, schools, in the community, and private practice. For more information: www.nbcot.org Occupational Therapist (OT) Pediatricians are physicians who specialize in treating children. Pediatricians oversee an individual’s physical, behavioral, and developmental health from birth through adolescence. Pediatricians may screen for autism spectrum disorder during well checks and refer a patient for a multidisciplinary diagnostic evaluation if necessary. For more information: www.aap.org Pediatrician Physical Therapists help individuals to improve muscle strength, balance, coordination and gross motor skills. PTs work in a variety of settings, including schools, homes, outpatient rehabilitation clinics, and private practice. For more information: www.apta.org Physical Therapist (PT) Psychiatrists are physicians who specialize in treating mental health disorders. They have training in diagnosis, medical care, and psychotherapy. Psychiatrists may be involved in the prescription and oversight of certain medications. Psychiatrists work in hospital settings and private practice. For more information: www.abpn.com Psychiatrist Psychologists are clinicians who treat a variety of common problems. Clinical psychologists are doctoral-level professionals who treat a variety of mental health symptoms such as depression, anxiety, anger, and stress. They may provide parent training and support, as well as assist in addressing the needs of a family. School psychologists are typically masters-level professionals who specialize in psychology as it relates to education, and they help children both academically and behaviorally. School psychologists often conduct educational assessments. Psychologists work in school settings, hospitals, and private practice. For more information: www.apa.org Psychologist Speech Language Pathologists evaluate, diagnose, and treat speech, language, communication, and swallowing disorders. Speech therapists help individuals improve their articulation, understanding and use of language, conversation, and social skills. They may also assist in the selection and development of augmentative and alternative communication devices. SLPs work in a variety of settings, including schools, homes, hospitals, and private practice. For more information: www.asha.org Speech Language Pathologist (SLP) Directors of Special Education supervise a school district’s special education services. They manage the child study team, supervise the development of IEPs, and help to ensure service provision is consistent with the NJ Administrative Code. For more information: www.state.nj.us/education/specialed/ Director/Supervisor of Special Education

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