Resources
Looking for information? Check out the websites below for information about intellectual and developmental disabilities, info about music, aromatherapy, sensory and other therapies--many of which the Olean Center employ in our work with participants. Whether you are interested in services for yourself, someone in your family, a student, a patient or are seeking answers and direction: welcome to the Olean Center’s Resource page. The websites listed below may be just a good place to start learning what you might need and want to know. We hope they provide education and inspiration.
Some links have been recommended by school psychologists, by parents with a child on the autism spectrum, and by others.
By no means do we have all the answers here, but, The Center will continue to grow this page--based on information we gather and the feedback we receive. We hope you find the offerings illuminating!
Please let us know if there is something else which would be helpful to you!
Welcome!
"The Olean Center has been a blessing in my son's life and mine". -Gladys R.
"The Olean Center has had a huge impact on our day to day lives. It's something Heather can look forward to.
She has role models and she's actually leaning". -Stephanie
I feel like I'm part of a community. The Olean Center touched every aspect of our lives". -Lisa
American Association on Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities
offers everything from webinars and journals, to information on news and policy related to individuals with intellectual disabilities.
American Music Therapy Association
provides a comprehensive launching pad to learn more about the benefits of music therapy.
https://www.musictherapy.org/about/musictherapy
The ARC
headquartered in Washington, D.C., works to protect and promote the dignity and inclusion of those with intellectual and developmental disabilities and offers a variety of resources on their website.
Aromatherapy
A short primer about plants which have long been considered helpful in reducing anxiety and stress from Mental Health Daily:
Autism Speaks
is an autism advocacy organization in the United States that sponsors autism research and conducts awareness and outreach activities. A bevy of resources and research are available and searchable by topic, the age of the person with ASD, by your relationship to that person, and more.
The Autism Project
is another very good resource, particularly if you live in Rhode Island.
http://www.theautismproject.org/
Down Syndrome Society of Rhode Island
is a parent advocacy organization offering information (including through a lending library and newsletter), which works to promote the dignity and potential of those with Down Syndrome.
First Signs
Nancy Wiseman’s organization focuses on issues of early identification and family support, as well as education of professionals about ASD.
First Words Project
This website from Florida State University on the “First Words Project” and the Autism Institute is directed by Dr. Amy Wetherby related to research on early identification.
Gardening with People with Disabilities
The National Gardening Association offers a comprehensive article:
https://garden.org/learn/articles/view/3431/
Horticulture Therapy
has been used for therapy for centuries. Learn more about its physiological, emotional, physical, and cognitive benefits in this article from the University of Florida:
http://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/ep145
Amy Laurent’s Website
is also excellent, providing practical information for children and adults with autism and for those who support them.
Dr. Barry Prizant, Ph.D.
is a well-regarded voice on autism and the author of the book, Uniquely Human.
Rhode Island Family Guide
Resources Ranging from Support Group Info, State and Local Info, and more
https://www.rifamilyguide.com/more-resources-support
Social Thinking
Focuses on strategies for developing social competencies which are geared towards those on the Spectrum who have average cognitive abilities.
Verywell Health
Offers clear and comprehensive information on Autism.
https://www.verywellhealth.com/autism-overview-4582004