About
The Lifespan Autism (C.L.A.S.S. – Changing Lives through Autism Spectrum Services) Clinic
Every day, since I was a small child, I’ve asked myself with anger, “What’s wrong with you?!” After 50 years of frustrated social relationships at work and school, this year I finally put together the pieces of the puzzle with the help I received at the C.L.A.S.S. Clinic. Learning how Asperger’s [autism spectrum disorder] makes me think and work differently enabled me to overcome chronic anxiety and depression and turn a career disruption into a big professional step forward. Twenty-five years into my marriage, I feel better prepared than ever to give my wife the emotional intimacy she deserves. The positive atmosphere of the treatment I received from the professionals at the C.L.A.S.S. Clinic helped me overcome a huge personal barrier, and I’ll always be grateful.
—D.B., age 51, diagnosed at C.L.A.S.S. with Autism
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental difference characterized by challenges with social skills, verbal and nonverbal communication, and the presence of repetitive behaviors, which affects approximately 2% of individuals (1 in 36 children) in the United States. Some individuals are not identified until they are adolescents or adults, and it can be a challenge for these individuals and their families to find the services they need. In response to this gap in services, the Lifespan Autism (formerly known as C.L.A.S.S.) Clinic was designed specifically to meet the needs of older adolescents and adults who are yet to be identified as autistic. Our mission is to improve the lives of individuals on the autism spectrum across the lifespan, by clinical diagnosis and treatment as well as research into the nature and causes of ASD and the factors that contribute to improved outcomes. The Lifespan Autism Clinic is one of the few clinics that specializes in serving adolescents and adults with ASD, particularly those who were not diagnosed in childhood.
Note: we use person/people-first language throughout this website. We use person with autism, person with ASD, autistic person, and person on the autism spectrum interchangeably, but we respect the language that our clients use to identify themselves.