September 18, 2015, JACKSONVILLE – Jacksonville NPR affiliate WJCT announced the designation of the Jacksonville Speech and Hearing Center as the first IBCCES Certified Autism Center yesterday on their morning show, First Coast Connect. Executive Director of the International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards (IBCCES) Michelle Killian and President of Jacksonville Speech and Hearing Center Mike Howland appeared on the program to make the announcement. 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.The nonprofit is the first healthcare provider in North Florida to undergo this training for its staff.
To listen to the NPR segment, please click here.
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.
IBCCES Director Michelle Killian stands with show host Melissa Ross and President of JSHC Mike Howland before their NPR segment on Certified Autism Centers.
About IBCCES
In 2001, IBCCES first established the industry standards for a Certified Autism Specialist. IBCCES leading standards are now used by organizations all over the world to ensure the highest quality of care and training for professionals in the field of Autism, with a goal to develop an army of highly trained and certified professionals who can improve the quality of life and education for individuals with Autism.
About The Jacksonville Speech and Hearing Center
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/
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