Each April, communities around the country recognize Autism Acceptance Month. Formerly known as Autism Awareness Month, the recent shift in language moves the focus from simple awareness toward genuine inclusion and respect.

“We want to build beyond awareness and really value individuals with autism and accept who they are as people,” said Rachel Barnhart, Detroit Wayne Integrated Health Network’s (DWIHN) Autism Service Administrator.

DWIHN is dedicated to increasing both understanding and support to individuals and families affected by autism spectrum disorder (ASD).

Barnhart explained that ASD is a spectrum, and no two individuals experience it the same way. Some may display self-stimulatory behaviors, restricted and repetitive behaviors, hyper-focused interests or social behaviors that might not follow the “norm.”

“Autism has such a wide range of symptomology,” Barnhart said. “And we want to see and celebrate individuals for who they are while also having a balance of providing the support they want and need.”

DWIHN believes that acceptance and support can and should coexist, which is why they offer a wide range of services for individuals with autism, making resources easy to access for all.

“There is no wrong door to begin the process of accessing services for an autism evaluation,” Barnhart explained.

ASD treatment comes in many forms and DWIHN’s network of providers covers Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), “an intensive, behaviorally based treatment that uses various techniques to bring about meaningful and positive changes in communication, social interaction and repetitive/restrictive behaviors.”

It’s not uncommon for families navigating systems to access services like ABA to find the process overwhelming, so DWIHN has simplified it, providing assistance every step of the way through their Access call center at 1-800-241-4949.

To make the process as simple as possible, all that is needed to get started with autism treatment is a valid diagnosis by a qualified health professional. If a family does not have a formal diagnosis, DWIHN can schedule an evaluation for them.

After diagnosis, Barnhart explained that families are connected to either a support coordinator or case manager depending on their service pathway. This is a critical step that leads to an Individual Plan of Service (IPOS) that must be developed before ABA therapy can begin.

As with any large system, challenges can arise, but DWIHN is with families every step of the way.

“Barriers aren’t dead ends, they’re detours,” Barnhart said.

At any moment during the process, families can call DWIHN and be redirected to someone who will help them.

“We want parents to know that their child matters to us,” Barnhart said.

During Autism Acceptance Month and throughout the year, DWIHN serves individuals with autism while also ensuring families have clear and accessible pathways to resources when they choose them.

For more information, visit www.dwihn.org or call the DWIHN Access Call Center at 1-800-241-4949.