What is Neurodiversity?
Neurodiversity describes the variety of ways in which human brains can function and process information. It includes neurological and developmental conditions, including autism spectrum disorder (ASD), attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), dyslexia and more[1]. Neurodiversity promotes the idea that neurological differences should be recognized and respected as a natural form of human diversity.
Neurodivergent people often experience the world differently from neurotypical people. These differences include unique ways of thinking, learning and interacting with others. Neurodivergence can present challenges, bringing strengths and perspectives that can be incredibly valuable to society.
Celebrating Neurodiversity
The neurodiversity movement advocates for the accepting and including neurodivergent people in all areas of society. It challenges the idea that neurodivergent traits are negative or need to be cured or fixed. Instead, it emphasizes the value of diverse ways of thinking and the importance of creating environments that accommodate different needs. GHC-SCW’s beliefs and values [3] align easily with the neurodiversity movement. We believe that embracing and valuing our differences will make everyone stronger.
The Group Health Cooperative Autism Spectrum Program
The Group Health Cooperative of South Central Wisconsin (GHC-SCW) offers a specialized Autism Spectrum Treatment Program to support Autistic children and their families. This program is for children aged 6 to 16 who need support in social interactions and emotional regulation. Further, this program continuously expands, so look for additional services soon.
Home-Based Program Overview
The Autism Spectrum Treatment Home-Based Program at GHC-SCW is built on evidence-based techniques and focuses on providing support to Autistic children. This approach ensures that children can learn and practice new skills in a familiar and supportive environment.
Key Features of the Program:
- Home-Based Treatment: Sessions are conducted in the child’s home, which helps create a comfortable and conducive learning environment.
- Weekly Appointments: The program includes appointments for several months, allowing for consistent support and progress tracking.
- Skill Development: Each session focuses on teaching children new strategies and providing opportunities for practice with the guidance of trained staff.
- Parental Involvement: Parents and caregivers play a crucial role in the program. They receive guidance on supporting their child’s development and are involved in coaching their children as they practice new strategies.
- Neurodiversity-Affirming Approach: The GHC-SCW Autism Spectrum Treatment Program embraces neurodiversity. Input from neurodivergent staff and community members helps ensure the program represents neurodivergent individuals. The program strives to support individuals through their challenges, make accommodations for their needs and build on their strengths.
PEERS® for Social Skills Group
GHC-SCW also offers the PEERS® for Social Skills Group, a 14-week in-person class designed for Autistic children and adolescents who are motivated to improve their social relationships. This program is held at the GHC-SCW Capitol Clinic and is led by trained PEERS® providers.
Program Highlights:
- Social Strategies: Children learn strategies for navigating social situations to assist them in creating positive friendships and addressing negative interpersonal dynamics.
- Group Activities: The program includes group socialization activities where children can practice their new skills in a supportive setting.
- Caregiver Participation: Parents/caregivers attend separate sessions at the same time to learn how to support their children’s efforts to expand their social networks.
Getting Started
To join the Autism Spectrum Treatment Program, families must meet certain requirements:
- The child must have a medical diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorder.
- The child must be able to communicate in complete sentences (augmentative and alternative communication included).
- For in-home services, the family must reside in Dane County
- An active GHC-SCW HMO insurance plan is required.
Parents/caregivers interested in enrolling their child in the program should speak with their child’s primary care provider to get a referral and make sure they meet the requirements to participate.
[1]: Understood [2]: Group Health Cooperative Autism Program [3]: About Us – Group Health Cooperative of South Central Wisconsin
