Options Policy

Autism Tennessee promotes the active and informed involvement of family members and the autistic individual in the planning of individualized, appropriate services and supports. The Board of Autism Tennessee believes that each autistic person is a unique individual. Each family and individual should have the right to learn about and select the options that they feel are most appropriate. To the maximum extent possible, we believe both the parents and the individual with autism should make decisions together.

Services should enhance and strengthen natural family and community supports for the whenever possible. The service option designed should result in improved quality of life. Abusive treatment of any kind is not an option.

We firmly believe that no single type of program or service will fill the needs of every individual, and that each person should have access to support services. Selection of a program, service or method of treatment should be on the basis of a full assessment of each person's abilities, needs and interests. We believe that services should be outcome-based to insure that they meet the individualized needs of a person.

With appropriate education, vocational training and community living options and support systems, autistic individuals can lead dignified, productive lives in their communities and strive to reach their fullest potential.