Minnesota Autism Center Unveils StateoftheArt Facility



The Minnesota Autism Center (MAC) opened a new facility in Minnetonka, Minn. on Aug. 4, 2008. The site is unlike anything in the nation and will be used to treat a limited number of children and to serve as central office for MAC's in-home professionals serving children and youth with Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD). According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, one in 150 children born is affected by ASD. According to the Thoughtful House Center for Children, Minnesota has the greatest number of diagnosed cases of ASD in the United States. MAC's staff is made up of some of the most highly regarded professionals in the world for their work with ASD. Recently, MAC and its staff were featured on Dr. Phil for their work with the child of a Minnesota Vikings cheerleader.

"Even though the center just opened, we are already seeing great progress with the children here," says MAC Executive Director Kathryn Marshall. "We are proceeding cautiously and professionally to ensure success with our programs, but the long-term plan is expansion."

Therapeutic services at the center are directed by a team of experienced doctoral-level psychologists, who work in conjunction with Marshall. Therapy is then implemented by a team consisting of a clinical supervisor (generally an M.A.-level trained behavioral therapist), a lead therapist (typically an M.A.-level training behavioral therapist, and several behavioral therapists (typically B.A. or M.A.-level trained behavioral therapists). In total, MAC has nearly 130 experienced professionals working with children and youth at the center and off-site around the state.

The Minnesota Autism Center is a non-profit organization that was founded by parents of children with autism. The organization provides therapeutic support for children, youth, and families affected by Autism Spectrum Disorders. MAC's highly trained professionals provide Applied Behavioral Analysis therapy on an individualized basis with the goal of reducing and eliminating the signs and symptoms of autism in children and youth.

The center features individual classrooms where children receive one-on-one therapy and reinforcement rooms and areas where they are rewarded for positive behavior. The facility adds to MAC's current work, providing services to more than 100 clients, ages 2 through 21, across the state.

Minnesota Autism Center

5710 Baker Road

Minnetonka, MN 55345

952-767-4200

www.mnautism.org

On August 19, 2008, the Minnesota Autism Center will be hosting an open house which will be attended by Minnesota Governor Tim Pawlenty, Senator Tarryl Clark, and Representative Erik Paulson.

To set up an interview with MAC Executive Director Kathryn Marshall, please contact Kate Nelson (kate @ lolaredpr.com) or Alexis Walsko (alexis@lolaredpr.com) with Lola Red PR at 612-333-1723.





Minnesota Autism Center Unveils StateoftheArt Facility