The IWK ASD SCC is a specialty service that is part of the IWK multi-disciplinary clinical and academic program for children and youth with autism spectrum disorders and co-morbid mental health illness. This service specializes in treating psychiatric illnesses that occur in youth with ASD.
The team consists of experienced psychiatrists, psychologists and social workers with expertise in autism spectrum disorders, more specifically the mental health issues often coexisting with these disorders. The team provides second opinion diagnostic consultation to clinicians within the IWK program, but also to those across the province. The team provides ongoing multidisciplinary care for those youth and their families with severe illness and with complex presentations.
Collaboration occurs with the community resources serving youth with ASD to enhance care provision/support services for youth and families with the illness. Research and academic teaching are key components of this clinic; the clinic serves as an excellent learning opportunity for students and residents who have an interest in youth with sever and complex ASD.
Accessing this Clinic, Program or Service
Central Referral will help determine whether the Specific Care Clinics offer the right support for you or your family member or friend. Most referrals to the Specific Care Clinics come from Community Mental Health and Addictions (CMHA) following a Choice appointment.
As the IWK is a tertiary care facility, child and adolescent psychiatrists from the Maritimes (Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, or PEI) can request a consult appointment for their patients with any of the Specific Care Clinics through Central Referral. Physicians and clinicians from the Maritimes can also request to speak to a member of the Specific Care Clinic if they wish to consult on a case.