Jacksonville, FL (Sept. 16, 2015) – The Jacksonville Speech and Hearing Center(JSHC) has earned its certification of autism care from the International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards (IBCCES).  This designation means that at least 80% of the JSHC staff has undergone a rigorous training process that will assist in providing speech pathology and audiology services for those who have autism.  It is believed that the nonprofit is the first healthcare provider in North Florida to undergo this training for its staff.

“I’m extremely proud that our staff has stepped up to achieve this recognition,” said Mike Howland, President and CEO of Jacksonville Speech and Hearing Center.  “Communication is a critical challenge for many people with autism and that is where we can help.”

“I strongly believe that creating professional partnerships that help care for those with autism and other sensory processing disorders improves the quality of care,” said Michelle Killian, Director of IBCCES.  “Disparities in patient-provider communication lower patient self-efficacy and usage of preventive services. This training can help eliminate that.”IBCCES was formed in 2001 and is the leading credentialing organization for professionals in the field of autism.

A Certified Autism Center provides a patient-friendly environment that includes

•      no sensory overload
•      patients ushered to quiet rooms
•      treatment that is minimally disruptive to the patient
•      communication with family members regarding diagnosis and treatment
•      a focus on “yes” or “no” questions to patient
•      allowing patients to see and touch materials
•      a health care professional manner that is direct and factual

Autism is a neurodevelopmental disorder with a wide range of symptoms and impairment levels.  According to a 2010 study conducted by the Center for Disease Control, one in 68 children in the US have the disorder.  It is five times more common among boys than girls.

The Jacksonville Speech and Hearing Center was founded in 1949 by the Junior League of Jacksonville.  Today this nonprofit, located at 1128 N. Laura St., serves children, adults and seniors providing screenings, evaluations and treatments in the areas of speech pathology and audiology.  Most major insurances are accepted.  For more information visit shcjax.org or call 904-355-3403 to make an appointment.  Like Jacksonville Speech and Hearing Center on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/jaxspeechhearingcenter or follow on Twitter @JaxSpeechHear.