Mercy Autism Collaborative - Springfield

Autism Collaborative Center

Mercy Autism Collaborative in Springfield, Missouri operates two days a month. Mercy pediatricians and family practice doctors refer children to the clinic. In a single appointment, the children get a comprehensive evaluation including speech and occupational therapy as well as psychological testing. Missouri State University (MSU) conducts a functional analysis, which looks at children’s behavior and their ability to problem solve and move from one activity to another.

The Arc’s Family Advocacy department helps guide families beyond the diagnostic phase to understanding and navigating all the available funding and support in the area, including the Rivendale Institute of Learning and Center for Autism. In addition, it offers families applied behavioral analysis, which is the leading therapy recommended for children with autism. MSU graduate students learn how to diagnose autism and be available to follow the children into their schools and serve as a behavioral resource for teachers.