The Oklahoma Autism Center for Applied Research and Training (OAC) improves the quality of life for children with autism spectrum disorders and their families by building the capacity of existing public programs to provide effective services. The incidence of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) continues to rise, and although there is no cure, education, directly of children and of parents and teachers, is currently the most effective treatment. The OAC provides the most up-to-date information, treatment and training for professionals in the area of autism spectrum disorders. It’s goal is to create cost-effective and sustainable solutions for the growing autism challenge. The Oklahoma Autism Center is comprised of an interdisciplinary team of professionals including special and general educators, speech/language pathologist, school psychologist, occupational therapist, family support coordinator, board certified behavior analyst and research personnel. Over the past 10 years, the OAC has created an infrastructure for statewide community-based services for children with autism and their families through a variety of projects. Working with state and national partners (e.g., CDC’s Act Early Initiative and the Oklahoma Department of Health, Child Guidance Services), OAC promotes autism awareness, screening and identification. By collaborating with early intervention (SoonerStart), public schools, and other public programs OAC strengthens services for children with autism through the use of evidence-based practices. OAC has established a model demonstration and training site serving young children with autism in Oklahoma County and the model has been replicated in three additional locations. Through federal funding, the OAC conducts applied research to evaluate the effectiveness this model.
