WELCOME TO
AUTISM CONSULTING
OF THE CAROLINAS
We are here for you.
Welcome to Autism Consulting
of the Carolinas —
JOHANNA
BANKS,
FOUNDER
You have just received the diagnosis: Autism Spectrum Disorder.
You are not alone. According to the Centers for Disease Control, 1 in 68 are now diagnosed.
Perhaps you are overwhelmed, confused, and unsure of who to turn to. You may feel as if you are on an island all alone. Your friends and family may not understand the magnitude of this experience. You may be exhausted, anxious, and fearful for the future.
Hang in there. You have landed in the right place.
Our mission at Autism Consulting of the Carolinas is to support families as they navigate the complex emotions and experiences of caring for a child with Autism by empowering clients with the tools needed to work through these difficult emotions and discover ways to maximize the wonderful potential of their children.
Although the seas may seem rough at times, we are here to help you map out your journey and keep you moving forward.
At Autism Consulting of the Carolinas, you are an extension of our family. We are here for you.
"When you touch one thing with deep awareness,
you touch everything."
- Lao Tzu
Exploring the outdoors with Dr. Temple Grandin's new book! Creativity & Nature- life doesn’t get much better!
WHAT WE OFFER
Autism Consulting
Having a child diagnosed with Autism or an Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) not only presents a challenge for the child, but also the entire family unit. We can identify and address individual challenges each family member is experiencing.
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Individualized support navigating the programs and services available, and development of a “roadmap”
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Guidance and counseling in your home, your office, or by phone/Skype
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Customized action plans to address the most stressful aspects of home life
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Strategies to manage maladaptive behaviors
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Tools to manage stress: for parents and siblings
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Education for parents, teachers and professionals
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Guide parents to proper community inclusion activities and support groups
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Individualized Education Program (IEP) assistance and strategy formulation for students with Autism and various other special needs
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Student/Child advocate in judicial matters where an Autism expert is needed
Supervision
At ACC, we recognize that clinical supervision is a vital part of the development of great clinicians. We offer supervision and consultation for social workers in the process of obtaining their Clinical Social Work License in the state of North Carolina (LCSW).
WHO WE SERVE
Our client family is comprised of parents, guardians, and caregivers of children ages 3 and up who have a diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorder. While we often begin our relationship upon diagnosis, we also serve families of children who have an existing diagnosis but need more personalized guidance. Many of our clients are engaged, motivated parents who need someone to help uncover appropriate services and coordinate care while they are at work. Others are stay-at-home moms and dads who know that having advocates like us will ensure that they are not missing any opportunities.
We are often asked to serve as an advocate for the child in Individualized Education Program (IEP) meetings, not only for children with Autism, but with various other special needs. IEP meetings can be confusing and intimidating, having an advocate on your side positions your child to receive the appropriate services they deserve.
All of our parents share the common desire to give their children the best of everything, and to do everything possible to help them communicate, support their progress, and ultimately, brighten their lives. Along with the diagnosis, though, typically comes stress, sadness, frustration, self-doubt, and confusion. By reaching out to Autism Consulting of the Carolinas, families discover hope, clarity, and unwavering support and understanding. They also gain true advocates who can help establish the action plans needed to optimize potential for their beloved children.
Working With Young Adults
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Activities of Daily Living & Independent Skills
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Coping strategies
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Advocacy
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Self esteem & confidence
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Transitions to college and the workplace
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Communication with agencies, schools, and families
OFFERING IN THE FALL OF 2021
Groups
The tag team is where your child can meet a new friend, can learn to work with others and practice problem solving. Most importantly, your child can feel accepted and understood by his or her peers. If you want more information about the “Tag Team” and what will be involved with the groups, please click on the link here, or follow the link at the top of the page.
DESIRED OUTCOMES
Our desired outcomes for your family:
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Increased feelings of joy, peace, and acceptance
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Confident decision-making capabilities
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Development of confidence in caregiving
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Connections to programs and services that will support well-being for everyone in the household
Our desired outcomes for your child:
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Increased autonomy
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Ability to make smoother transitions
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Decreased maladaptive behaviors
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Greater flexibility
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Feelings of security that come from developing structure and routine
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Greater connectedness with siblings and parents
WHY ACC?
Compassion and Direction
We see ourselves as an extension of your family. We will bring passion and compassion to our role within your household, working together with parents, siblings, and your child with Autism to promote greater success for everyone involved.
This may be one of the most confusing and challenging times your family will face in this lifetime. With us, you have a safe space in which to vent, ask questions, cry, share, and explore ways to find peace.
We are here to listen, learn, and connect you to strategies and a vision that will help you move forward.