The following resources provide valuable information about diagnosis, treatment, advocacy, and research of autism spectrum disorders.   Professionals and families can use these sources to identify the types of treatment available, best practices in treatment, and what may be appropriate for a particular child.  Several of the websites include information on navigating the special education process and advocating for appropriate services.  Additionally, “A Parent’s Guide to Research” is a useful reference for understanding and evaluating research in the field of autism. 

• Autism Speaks tool kits
• Association for Science in Autism Treatment (ASAT)

  Mission is to educate parents, professionals, and consumers by disseminating accurate, scientifically-sound information about autism and its treatment and by combating inaccurate or unsubstantiated information.

• NYSED Publications for Parents on Special Education

  A good resource for families about navigating the special education process

• National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH)

  A good source for current research and best practices related to autism

• Autism Society

  Dedicated to increasing public awareness about the day-to-day issues faced by people on the spectrum, advocating for appropriate services for individuals across the lifespan, and providing the latest information regarding treatment, education, research and advocacy.

• Organization for Autism Research
• Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)

  Provides an excellent overview of what is currently know about autism, from diagnosis to treatment to current statistics.

• National Association of Residential Providers for Adults with Autism (NARPAA)

  NARPAA is an organization of providers dedicated to education and advocacy that will assure the availability of residential services and other supports for adults with autism throughout their lives.

• Advancing Futures for Adults with Autism

  AFAA is a national consortium of organizations working together, led by the vision of individuals with autism and their families, to promote a collaborative spirit and develop both public and private sector support that improve the lives of adults living with autism

• A Parent’s Guide to Research

  A basic primer on autism research for use as a reference by parents. A Parent’s Guide to Research includes a glossary of terms, an overview of scientific research, how to determine if a particular study may or may not be pertinent to a particular child, and questions to ask with respect to treatments, therapies, and other methodologies under consideration.