By: Richard L. Smith
Youth Consultation Service (YCS), a nonprofit behavioral health and social services agency in New Jersey, announced that its Institute for Infant and Preschool Mental Health is now offering free autism evaluations for children under the age of five living in East Orange, Newark, Irvington, and Orange.
The program is funded by the Healthcare Foundation of New Jersey and is designed to expand access to early developmental assessments for families who may otherwise face challenges obtaining timely evaluations.
Through this initiative, YCS is increasing its capacity to provide developmentally focused autism evaluations conducted by clinicians who specialize in early childhood mental health.
Evaluations are offered by appointment only and are available in both English and Spanish at the Institute’s location at 60 Evergreen Place, 10th Floor, in East Orange.
“Providing free autism evaluations helps ensure more children receive early developmental support during the most critical years of growth,” said Tara Augustine, President and CEO of YCS. “With autism now affecting one in 29 children in New Jersey, early evaluation and intervention are essential.
The earlier children receive support, the more opportunities they have to develop lifelong skills and thrive.”
In addition to autism evaluations, the Institute offers a range of early childhood mental health services, including developmental screenings, therapy, caregiver guidance, and interventions that support the social, emotional, and behavioral needs of infants, toddlers, and preschool-aged children.
Families and child-serving providers in East Orange, Newark, Irvington, and Orange can schedule a free autism evaluation by calling (973) 395-5500 or by emailing institute@ycs.org.
More information about YCS and its services is available at ycs.org.