Evaluation, Diagnostic and Consultation Services
A comprehensive developmental evaluation is available through The Kelberman Center to determine if a child is eligible for early intervention services or preschool services and what types of services may be needed, including speech, occupational therapy, physical therapy and special education services.
An evaluation, provided by specialists from more than one area of development, will observe and test the child. Based on the evaluation needed, services may be provided in a home-based program or a center-based program. Additional consultation services are offered through The Kelberman Center. To obtain more information please contact (315) 797-6241.
Treatment Options
Experts agree that early intervention is important in addressing the symptoms associated with autism. The earlier the treatment is started the better the opportunity for the child to reach his full potential. Services for children as young as 18 months can be provided and may continue throughout the individual's life. It is important to match the child's individual needs with potential treatments or strategies likely to be effective. The basis for selecting a treatment approach should be a thorough assessment of the child's particular skills, abilities and needs. Most professionals agree that people with autism respond well to highly structured special education programs designed to meet the individual's needs. Based on the major characteristics associated with autism, there are areas that are important to look at when creating a plan: social development, communication, behavior and sensory integration.
Upstate Cerebral Palsy Early Intervention
Services are available through collaboration with the local county departments of health. Trained professional educators and therapists provide assessment and intervention in the child's home or other natural environment. To access this service, contact your County Health Department.
First Step Developmental Group
This is an Early Intervention Program for toddlers that exhibit severe language delay and behavioral problems. The Upstate Cerebral Palsy First Step Developmental Group is a half day program provided at our Armory Campus in Utica for up to 4 children ages 18 months to 3 years.
Promise Program
This program is for children ages 3-5. Five classes of 6 children attend 5 days per week and receive therapeutic intervention and educational instruction. As in the First Step Program, the instruction is delivered using an ABA approach. In order to facilitate a smooth transition to a less restrictive environment, a peer network has been created within the Promise Program. This network provides Promise Program students an opportunity to practice and generalize their skills while interacting with typical learning age appropriate peers. To view the brochure click here.
New Discoveries Learning Center Inclusive Preschool
This program provides instruction for students who are ready to generalize their skills and no longer require the highly structured routines provided in the Promise Program. Children learn side by side with peers who are attending state certified child care programs. This program uses the High Scope Curriculum, which includes essential components for the instruction of children with autism. The Bridges Program within the New Discoveries Learning Center is a transition classroom that provides the support of specialized instructors as well as behavioral supports provided by a Behavior Specialist Assistant. To view the brochure click here.
Tradewinds Education Center
This program is for school age students who have not been successful in the public schools due to severe communication delays and maladaptive behaviors. The Tradewinds Education Center provides a learning environment for both day and residential students. Students with multiple disabilities attend Tradewinds where 50-60% of the students have a diagnosis of autism. The core of the program is modeled after a program of intervention based on the principles of Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports.
Educational Transition Services
An essential component of all education programs at the Agency is providing comprehensive support through transition to new and sequential steps in programming. These steps can include those initiated by age (e.g., preschool to elementary school) or by the student's need for a change in services. Transition services include meeting with family members, delivering student-specific information to all parties involved in the transition, educating external providers on our general practices, and arranging staff-supported student visits to the next educational setting.
Counseling Services
The Kelberman Center offers comprehensive counseling services by a team of trained counselors and social workers. Counseling can be provided on an individual, family, or group basis.
Community Based Early Screening Program
With the generous support of the Untied Way of Greater Utica, The Kelberman Center provides free developmental screenings to pre-school age children throughout the community. A mobile screening and consultation team, consisting of a speech and language pathologist and a special educator, conducts the screenings at daycare centers, early childhood facilities, and family community sites. For more information or to reserve a screening slot, please contact (315) 797-6241.
