At ARCH of Lehigh Valley, autism specific diagnostic evaluations are conducted by a licensed psychologist. The recommendation for an evaluation can be made by the parent, physician, teacher or any other professional. ARCH of Lehigh Valley staff will meet with the family to explain the diagnosis and help them understand its implications, treatment options and available resources. We also assist families in applying for Medical Assistance. Please note: the mental health portion of the child's insurance will be billed for the diagnostic evaluation. If the child does not have insurance, we will assist the family with other options.
Professional Training
Staff at ARCH of Lehigh Valley receive intensive, ongoing professional training on Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD). As ARCH of Lehigh Valley develops services and programs, families and professional will be offered lectures and discussion groups on many aspects of ASD.
Resource Room
For those who wish to learn more about ASD, our ever-expanding Resource Room is open to the public. We offer a comprehensive collection of print, electronic and audio-visual resources as well as computer, copier and laminating accessibility.
Counseling
Individuals with ASD and their families may benefit from counseling. This will be offered on-site by professionals and may include individual, group or family counseling depending on their needs.
Autism Specific Behavioral Health Rehabilitation Services (BHRS), a.k.a. Wraparound Services/Provider-50 Services
BHRS is available to children and adolescents up to age 21 with ASD. These services must be prescribed by a licensed psychologist or physician. A treatment plan is developed by a team consisting of the parents and professionals involved with the child. The three standard services are:
- Behavioral Specialist Consultant (BSC): plans and monitors individually designed services.
- Mobile Therapist (MT): provides individual therapy in the home or community.
- Therapeutic Staff Support (TSS): implements the treatment plan in homes, schools and community settings.
Summer Camp
ARCH of Lehigh Valley offers therapeutic summer camp for children, adolescents and young adults ages 11-21 with ASD. This program will be provided at both ARCH of Lehigh Valley and in the community and will offer participants a fun and recreational camp experience.
Self-Directed Care (SDC) Pilot Program
ARCH of Lehigh Valley has been chosen to provide Intensive Case Management (ICM) services to transitional age youths (to age 29) with an ASD diagnosis. Seventy five (75) individuals will have the opportunity to make a "purchasing plan goal" for services and supports - up to $2,500. All requests must go to Magellan Behavioral Health. ICM services may continue after the funds are depleted.
After School Programs
During the school year, ARCH of Lehigh Valley will provide after school programs to children and adolescents with ASD. Programs will use a combination of behavioral, communication and socialization strategies to help them improve their functioning in a variety of settings.
Family Activities
ARCH of Lehigh Valley provides activities for families whose children have ASD. The range of family programs will increase and vary over time and may include activities such as movie nights and other recreational and social opportunities. ARCH of Lehigh Valley will offer support groups for siblings, families and others touched by ASD.
