New Mexico Autism Resources

Understanding Autism Resources and Protections in New Mexico

New Mexico offers a robust network of services, programs, and support systems for individuals with autism and their families. From diagnosis and therapy to community engagement and legal protections, this guide explores the extensive resources available across the state to foster inclusion, support, and advocacy for those on the autism spectrum.

Statewide Autism Support Organizations and Community Engagement

Is autism recognized as a disability in New Mexico, and what protections does this entail?

In New Mexico, autism is officially acknowledged as a disability, which provides individuals with essential legal protections. The state aligns with federal laws like the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), ensuring protection against discrimination in employment, housing, education, and public services.

Several organizations actively support the autism community across the state. The New Mexico Autism Society (NMAS), an affiliate of the national Autism Society of America, plays a pivotal role by creating connections, advocating for policy changes, and providing educational resources tailored to New Mexicans.

Community engagement is strengthened through local support groups and events organized by groups such as Elevate the Spectrum. They host programs including sensory-friendly movie nights and adult meet-ups, fostering social connections and community awareness.

Advocacy efforts in New Mexico focus on working with the state legislature and agencies like the Developmental Disabilities Supports Division (DDSD) and the Public Education Department. These collaborations aim to influence policy, expand services, and ensure inclusive practices in schools and healthcare.

Through these combined efforts—support groups, legislative work, and organizations—the autism community in New Mexico remains active and empowered, striving for a society where everyone can live fully and with dignity.

Organization Name	Focus Area	Notable Programs	Contact/Location
NM Autism Society	Advocacy & Support	Community events, education	Statewide, NM
Elevate the Spectrum	Community Programs	Adult groups, family movies	Albuquerque, NM
UNM Center for Development & Disability	Healthcare & Diagnosis	Autism evaluation clinic	Albuquerque, NM
NMSU Autism Diagnostic Center	Diagnostic Services	Autism assessments in Las Cruces	Las Cruces, NM
Southwest Center for Child & Family Development	Evaluation services	Autism evaluations	Albuquerque, NM

This network of organizations and community efforts demonstrates New Mexico’s commitment to supporting individuals with autism and their families through advocacy, education, and accessible services.

Diagnosis, Evaluation, and Support Services in New Mexico

Is autism recognized as a disability in New Mexico, and what protections does this entail?

Yes, autism is acknowledged as a disability in New Mexico. As a result, individuals with autism are protected under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), which prohibits discrimination in various areas including employment, housing, education, and access to public services. This recognition ensures that families and individuals can access necessary accommodations and support systems.

Local Autism Diagnostic and Evaluation Centers in New Mexico

New Mexico offers several reputable centers for autism diagnosis and assessments. These include:

• UNM Center for Development & Disability-Autism Programs

  • Provides comprehensive evaluations for children and adults.
  • Partners with healthcare providers and educational systems.

• NMSU Papen Autism Diagnostic Center

  • Located in Las Cruces, it offers diagnostic services specifically for children and adolescents.
  • Offers community outreach, support groups, and evidence-based parent training.
  • Contact: (575) 646-3177

• JumpStart Autism Center

  • Serves children aged 1 to 16 for assessments of ASD and other neurodevelopmental disorders.

• Southwest Center for Child and Family Development

  • Provides detailed diagnostic evaluations for ASD, completed within three months.

• Autism Spectrum Evaluation Clinic at UNM

  • Specializes in diagnosing children over age three.

Support and Resources for Individuals and Families

These centers work closely with families, schools, and healthcare providers to deliver timely and accurate diagnoses. Early detection is emphasized, along with connecting families to intervention programs and community resources.

Broader Support Landscape in New Mexico

Beyond diagnosis, New Mexico offers an array of supports such as the Developmental Disabilities (DD) Waiver Program, which helps eligible residents live independently or with family. State-funded programs within Medicaid, like Centennial Care, include coverage for therapies such as ABA, aiding both children and adults.

How to Find More Diagnostic Services

For a comprehensive list of autism evaluation centers in New Mexico, including details and contact information, searches using queries like 'Autism diagnostic centers and evaluation services in New Mexico' can be helpful.

Center Name	Location	Services Provided	Contact	Funding Options
UNM CDD-Autism	Albuquerque	Developmental assessments	(505) 272-6420	State & Medicaid
NMSU Papen	Las Cruces	Diagnostic & community outreach	(575) 646-3177	State, private
JumpStart Autism	Multiple locations	ASD assessments in children	[Website]	Private, Medicaid
Southwest Center	Albuquerque	Evaluation for neurodevelopmental disorders	[Website]	State, private
UNM Autism Clinic	Albuquerque	Autism spectrum evaluation	[Website]	State, Medicaid

Staying informed about available services and leveraging early diagnosis can make a significant difference in the lives of individuals with autism and their families in New Mexico.

Therapeutic and Educational Resources for Individuals with Autism

Is autism recognized as a disability in New Mexico, and what protections does this entail?

Yes, autism is recognized as a disability in New Mexico, providing individuals with certain legal protections. Under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), individuals with autism are protected from discrimination in employment, housing, education, and access to public services. This recognition helps ensure they receive appropriate accommodations and support to live full, active lives.

Private Therapy Providers in New Mexico

Families seeking tailored therapy services in New Mexico can turn to private providers. Notable centers include Autism Specialists, AmAble Therapies, and Climbing Tree. These providers offer services such as speech therapy, occupational therapy, and physical therapy, addressing various developmental needs.

Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) Providers

ABA is a widely used evidence-based intervention for autism. In New Mexico, providers like Behavior Health Works, Autism Spectrum Therapies (AST), and the Center for Autism and Related Disorders (CARD) deliver ABA programs. These services are available through clinics and home-based settings, supporting skill development and behavior management.

School-Based Support Services

Public education agencies in New Mexico, including Albuquerque Public Schools and Rio Rancho Public Schools, offer specialized programs for students with autism. The NM Public Education Department provides resources, training, and consultation to ensure educational success and inclusion.

Parent Training and In-Home Programs

Parents can access in-home support and training programs like those offered through UNM’s Autism Programs and regional centers. These programs provide personalized coaching to help families develop daily living skills, implement behavioral strategies, and navigate educational systems.

Service Type	Providers	Location/Partnerships	Focus Areas
Private therapy	Autism Specialists, AmAble Therapies, Climbing Tree	Throughout New Mexico	Speech, occupational, physical therapy
ABA therapy	Behavior Health Works, AST, CARD	Across various communities	Behavior management, skill building
School services	Albuquerque Public Schools, Rio Rancho Schools	Statewide	Education, inclusion, specialized support
Parent in-home support	UNM Autism Programs, Regional centers	Statewide	Daily living skills, behavior strategies

This combination of private, public, and community-based services creates a comprehensive network designed to support the needs of those with autism across New Mexico. Whether through therapy clinics, school programs, or family-centered support, residents have access to resources tailored to their unique journeys.

Community Programs, Recreational Activities, and Resources for Lifelong Support

Is autism recognized as a disability in New Mexico, and what protections does this entail?

Yes, autism is acknowledged as a disability in New Mexico. This recognition provides individuals with legal protections under federal laws like the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). These protections ensure nondiscrimination in areas such as employment, housing, education, and access to public services, helping individuals with autism participate fully in community life.

Autism Society New Mexico initiatives and virtual events

The Autism Society New Mexico actively fosters community connection through various programs. They organize virtual events like the Autistic Women's Meet and Autistic Adult Meet, giving community members a platform to share experiences and support each other.

Additionally, they promote educational programs, conferences, and online training, broadening awareness and understanding of autism across the state. These activities are part of their mission to empower families and individuals while creating a strong, supportive network.

Equine therapy centers in New Mexico

Equine therapy is a beneficial activity for many with autism, focusing on improving physical, cognitive, emotional, and social skills. Centers like the NMSU Therapeutic Riding and the New Mexico Center for Therapeutic Riding provide specialized programs that utilize horseback riding as a therapeutic tool.

These centers aim to promote confidence and independence among participants, offering a unique and engaging form of therapy that complements other support services.

Recreational programs such as Autism+ and summer movie outings

Recreational activities are vital for social development and fun. Autism+ is one such program that works to enhance accessibility and inclusion throughout New Mexico. They offer community-based outings, support groups, and events that encourage social interaction.

During the summer, Elevate the Spectrum organizes sensory-friendly family movie nights at Rio Rancho Premiere Cinemas every Friday from June 6th through July 25th. These events are designed to provide a welcoming environment where children and families can enjoy films without sensory overload.

Employment and vocational resources like Division of Vocational Rehabilitation

For adults on the autism spectrum seeking employment, the Division of Vocational Rehabilitation is a crucial resource. It offers job training, placement assistance, and support tailored to each individual's needs.

These programs aim to foster independence and economic participation, helping individuals with autism build meaningful careers within their communities.

Program or Service	Focus Area	Description	Location	Contact Info
Autism Society NM	Community support & events	Virtual meetings, educational outreach	Statewide	info@autismsociety-nm.org
NMSU Therapeutic Riding	Equine therapy	Horseback riding for therapeutic benefits	Las Cruces	(575) 646-3177
Autism+	Accessibility & inclusion	Community outings & sensory-friendly events	Various locations	info@autismplus.org
Division of Vocational Rehab	Employment support	Job training & placement	Statewide	505-476-2666

This range of community programs and recreational activities underscores New Mexico’s commitment to supporting individuals with autism throughout their lives, ensuring access to meaningful engagement, therapy, and employment opportunities.

Healthcare and Inclusive Services at UNM Medical Center

Is autism recognized as a disability in New Mexico, and what protections does this entail?

Yes, in New Mexico, autism is recognized as a disability under state and federal law. This recognition provides individuals with autism legal protections through laws such as the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). These protections help prevent discrimination in employment, housing, educational opportunities, and access to public services.

UNM Hospital’s community engagement and sensory resources

The University of New Mexico (UNM) Hospital actively engages with its community by including input from local residents into healthcare planning. In 2023, they focused on improving services for neurodiverse patients through community health assessments. To support patients with autism, UNM Hospital has developed sensory resources such as sensory kits and videos that familiarize children and adults with clinical spaces. These helpful tools make visits less intimidating and improve overall patient experiences.

Efforts to reduce healthcare disparities and staff training on autism

UNM Hospital strives to create a more inclusive healthcare environment for individuals on the autism spectrum. They’ve invested in staff training programs aimed at increasing awareness and understanding of autism among healthcare providers. These programs include specialized training on communication, sensory sensitivities, and behavioral needs, which help staff deliver more respectful and effective care.

Inclusive care environments and resource videos for patients

Part of UNM’s inclusive efforts involves designing clinical spaces that are sensory-friendly, reducing overwhelming stimuli for neurodiverse patients. To prepare patients and families, UNM offers autism-specific resource videos tailored for different age groups. These videos are available on Vimeo and help individuals feel more comfortable with their upcoming medical visits, ensuring better health outcomes.

Overall, UNM Medical Center's forward-thinking approach aims to support and serve all community members effectively, fostering an environment where individuals with autism receive respectful, tailored healthcare in New Mexico.

Empowering the Autism Community in New Mexico

With a comprehensive array of services, legal protections, community programs, and healthcare support, New Mexico stands as a welcoming environment for individuals with autism and their families. Continued advocacy, education, and resource development ensure that every individual has the opportunity to thrive and live full, empowered lives.

References

• Resources - New Mexico Autism Society
• NM Autism Society
• Autism Programs | Center for Development & Disability - UNM Health
• Autism - New Mexico Health Care Authority
• Resources for Adults with Autism Spectrum Disorder
• Autism Diagnostic Center | New Mexico State University
• Elevate the Spectrum – Empowering communities to elevate ...