
Next Steps Clinic
The new Next Steps LEND Clinic will see children with neurodevelopmental and autism spectrum disorders who are encountering a problem with transition, are having school system issues, or who are in need of help with coordinating their care.
The Next Steps LEND Clinic will translate the child's diagnosis into a "Life Plan" that supports parents and educational programs, such as Birth to Three and local school systems.
The "Life Plan" can address:
- Educational needs that address communication, motor and social development
- Family supports that address financial and social programs
- Local community supports and the extended autism support network
- Establishment of a medical home for the child and their family
- Life skills including planning for transitions
- Linkage with advocacy organizations and development of self-advocacy skills
What services are offered?
An interdisciplinary team of WVU professors and graduate students collaborate with the family of a child with special needs regarding:
- School issues
- Life transition issues
- Access to needed services
- Linkages to other medical professionals
- Recommendations for other needed evaluations
Where are the services offered?
Next Steps LEND Clinic services are offered in Morgantown at the Center for Excellence in Disabilities in a comfortable and confidential clinic setting.
Who provides these services?
An interdisciplinary team consisting of a psychologist, social worker, speech pathologist, parent mentor, occupational therapist, and others as needed work with families. Graduate students assist the mentors and learn about family-centered and culturally competent care.
How much do these services cost?
There is no charge for the Next Steps LEND Clinic.
Who is eligible for services?
Any family with a child from birth to age 21 with a neurodevelopmental or related disability is eligible for services. It is preferred, but not necessary, for the child to have a diagnosis before coming.
How do I make an appointment or make a referral for services?
Contact Debbie Cain at 304-293-4692 or by email at dcain@hsc.wvu.edu.
Next Steps Clinic Referral Form
What other help is available?
After the clinic appointment, staff are available to assist with follow-up as needed by the family. Clinic staff prepare a report with recommendations and referral information, including referrals to other CED clinics.
All printed materials are available in braille, electronic format, CD and large print. WVU is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Institution