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Tuesday, November 30, 2010

“Affordable Autism Treatment Moves A Step Closer - simplestepsautism.com - YAHOO!” plus 1 more

“Affordable Autism Treatment Moves A Step Closer - simplestepsautism.com - YAHOO!” plus 1 more


Affordable Autism Treatment Moves A Step Closer - simplestepsautism.com - YAHOO!

Posted: 30 Nov 2010 11:30 AM PST

Global behavior experts, Simple Steps, are leading the way in providing affordable autism treatment by introducing two brand new price options. For only £39 ($62.40), parents can access Simple Steps' ground-breaking online teaching tool (http://www.simplestepsautism.com). With memberships already selling worldwide, the new price plans will offer hope to even more families facing the daily struggle against autism.

(PRWEB) November 30, 2010

Globally renowned for responding to parents' needs, Simple Steps reacted immediately to requests for more pricing options. Professor Lester Manley, Chairman of Simple Steps, commented: "We pride ourselves on our relationships with the parents and families who use our products – they asked for this and we are glad to be able to respond quickly."

A new one-month (trial) contract and a three-month contract have now been introduced, the cost of which will be deducted from any license upgrade. Dr Tony Byrne, Director of Simple Steps and Chairman of parent-led Autism Charity, PEAT (Parents' Education as Autism Therapists) said: "We fully understand the harsh economic times families everyone faces and we're glad to be able to offer these new options."

So what is it? Simple Steps created the world's first parent-led, interactive online teaching-tool for autism. Building on the experiences of real families, the product unites the worlds of science, academia, charity, health, and innovation to introduce parents to Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) – the only scientifically validated treatment for autism.

Widely recognized as a safe and effective treatment, ABA is endorsed by the U.S. Surgeon General and the New York State Department of Health. A much needed boost in support for families, the tool also helps to ease the strain on over-burdened health services. Although not designed to replace a qualified Behavior Analyst, Simple Steps offers parents the chance to embrace the challenge of ABA and create a brighter future for their child.

The interactive web-tool aims to help every child rise to their potential by giving parents affordable access to resources they desperately need. With guidance from ABA experts, real-life footage, dynamic teaching animations, a supportive online community, and much more, members can take their first crucial steps to becoming 'parent-therapists' through e-learning.

###

Michael Reid
Simple Steps Ltd
+44 (0)28 9079 5342
Email Information

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Closer Look at Autism and the Measles–Mumps–Rubella Vaccine - Medscape News

Posted: 30 Nov 2010 02:54 AM PST

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Monday, November 29, 2010

“Autism Researcher a GQ "Rock Star of Science" - Medscape News” plus 1 more

“Autism Researcher a GQ "Rock Star of Science" - Medscape News” plus 1 more


Autism Researcher a GQ "Rock Star of Science" - Medscape News

Posted: 29 Nov 2010 10:55 AM PST

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Next lieutenant governor makes appeal for mandatory autism coverage - Detroit Free Press

Posted: 29 Nov 2010 12:11 AM PST

The campaign to require Michigan health insurers to cover the cost of treating children with autism is getting an eleventh-hour boost from the man who will assume the office of lieutenant governor Jan. 1 -- state Rep. Brian Calley, R-Portland.

Calley, whose 3-year-old daughter has been diagnosed with autism, is scheduled to meet with the Republican caucus in the state Senate when members return this week to the state Capitol. He is urging the Senate (where he will be the presiding officer beginning in January) to approve autism legislation adopted by the House in 2009.

But Calley is not speaking for the administration of Gov.-elect Rick Snyder, who is not taking a position on the legislation, a Snyder spokesman said last week. And the legislation, opposed by a broad range of business and labor organizations, remains a long shot for final action in the lame-duck session scheduled to end Thursday.

In a five-minute video delivered to lawmakers last week, Calley makes an emotional plea for mandated autism coverage, saying the failure to do so "condemn(s) people -- real people -- to a life of dependency."

Calley and other supporters of the legislation, a coalition of health care providers and the public school lobby, claim that early autism treatment would save taxpayers up to $14 billion by relieving the need for long-term care for an estimated 15,000 autistic children in Michigan.

Opponents question the accuracy of that estimate and note that the mandate would put an immediate financial burden on employers providing health insurance.

Rich Studley, president of the Michigan Chamber of Commerce, said "these questions of insurance coverage should be decided in the workplace by employees and employers ... and not by government bureaucrats."

Studley said the specific provisions of insurance plans are best determined by those receiving and paying for the benefits. They might decide their resources are better spent on additional pay or pension benefits rather than insurance coverage for autism or mental illness or substance abuse, he said.

"No one that works here is unconcerned about autism. And we have a great deal of respect for Brian Calley," Studley said. "But if this is a good idea -- and we think it's not -- it will still be a good idea in February or March. It's not something they should be trying to do in lame duck."

The autism legislation would require all insurers to provide coverage for the diagnosis and treatment of autism spectrum disorders under the same conditions and limits applied to physical illnesses. Twenty-three states have adopted some form of autism mandate for insurers, according to the Autism Alliance of Michigan. While some insurers provide autism coverage in Michigan today, much of the treatment for children with the disorder is provided by intermediate school districts as part of special-education programs.

Contact Dawson Bell: 517-372-8661 or dbell@freepress.com

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Sunday, November 28, 2010

“Mental Health Stigma: Changing How We Think and Talk About Child Psychiatric Disorders - Huffingtonpost.com”

“Mental Health Stigma: Changing How We Think and Talk About Child Psychiatric Disorders - Huffingtonpost.com”


Mental Health Stigma: Changing How We Think and Talk About Child Psychiatric Disorders - Huffingtonpost.com

Posted: 17 Nov 2010 04:50 AM PST

When I was young and just thinking about what I would like to do for my career, my father urged me to become a doctor. He was a Polish immigrant and Holocaust survivor, and in our Jewish household, where there was always a lot of passionate talking and shouting, I remember often feeling frustrated by his insistence that I go into medicine. I loved political science back then, and so I told my father, who'd graduated from law school in Warsaw in 1936, that perhaps I'd like to be a lawyer. He was surprised at this. "Why would you do that?" he asked, like so many Jewish immigrants of his generation, he was keenly aware of which skill sets were transferable across cultures and language barriers. Medicine, he thought, was something I could practice in any part of the world. He said I needed skills I could "carry" in my mind and use anywhere. If you're going to lose everything, he said, all you've got is what's in your head.

My father worried about what I carried in mind partly because he'd survived 14 concentration camps and then arrived in America penniless and unable to speak English in 1949. While his message resonated with me from that vantage point, near the end of college I gained a deeper understanding of what carrying something in mind could mean. I'd realized that my primary interest was human behavior, not politics, and as I began making plans to pursue psychiatry in medical school, I was becoming increasingly sensitive to the fact that what we carry in our minds is in fact everything: In life, we want good health, security, love and the ability to fulfill our potential; but untreated mental illness can rob us of all these things, beginning in childhood.

During my nearly 30-year career as a child and adolescent psychiatrist, I've seen how young lives can be dramatically transformed, for better or worse, as a result of complex developmental changes in the brain. Children's lives can veer off course due to the maladaptive coping and biological processes that underlie psychiatric disorders; and their lives can be improved with effective treatment and support. The problem is that we've long had the wrong response to childhood psychiatric disorders. Our first response has been denial; many people don't want to believe that children can have mental health disorders such as autism and ADHD. And our second response has been to appoint blame, or to say that bad parenting, offensive TV, over-medicating or something else can explain psychiatric problems.

We've unfortunately had trouble accepting that childhood psychiatric disorders are real, highly prevalent (1 in 5 children and teens struggle with a diagnosable disorder), and have biological and genetic causes as well as environmental triggers. In addition, feelings of shame and the fear of society's judgment prevent millions of children and teens from getting treatment -- care that could arm them with the skills to effectively cope with their day-to-day experiences, build self-confidence and self-esteem, and develop satisfying relationships with family, friends and others. The truth is that we can give kids tools to lead healthier lives -- and we can save lives, as we've done in the fights against childhood cancer and diabetes, if we can find common ground and work together to help kids heal.

My father's message about what we carry in the mind is really relevant here, too, because to truly help our kids fulfill their potential we must not only expand the provision and availability of mental health care, but also change how we think and talk about childhood psychiatric disorders. While most parents would say they're opposed to stigma and discrimination, almost any child with a psychiatric disorder can tell the story of how a peer or adult offered cruelty instead of empathy, judgment instead of care. And many parents of children with psychiatric disorders say they felt shame instead of acceptance, loneliness instead of support, before their children were diagnosed and treated.

If we embrace the reality of childhood psychiatric disorders and then refuse to judge and blame each other for them, we will be far more successful in reducing the suffering of kids and families, improving prevention efforts, and removing the barriers to treatment.

Finally, there is the gift humility, which we should insist on offering one another, because no one is invulnerable to psychiatric illness; it can be found across all races, ethnicities and income levels. It's real -- and it's common -- but also very treatable.

Harold S. Koplewicz, M.D. is a leading child and adolescent psychiatrist and the president of the Child Mind Institute.

 

Follow Dr. Harold Koplewicz on Twitter: www.twitter.com/DrKoplewicz

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Saturday, November 27, 2010

“Michigan News -- Autism coverage supporters push for Michigan law - KABC”

“Michigan News -- Autism coverage supporters push for Michigan law - KABC”


Michigan News -- Autism coverage supporters push for Michigan law - KABC

Posted: 21 Nov 2010 03:58 PM PST

Supporters of expanded health care coverage for autism are pushing to get changes approved in Michigan by the end of the year.

AUTISM COVERAGE-MICHIGAN Autism coverage supporters push for Michigan law

LANSING, Mich. (AP) - Supporters of expanded health care coverage for autism are pushing to get changes approved in Michigan by the end of the year. The Democratic-led Michigan House has voted to require offering better insurance coverage for behavioral therapies for autistic children. The Republican-led Senate hasn't voted on the legislation. The bills would die if not approved by the end of the year. Legislation would have to be reintroduced next year. The Autism Alliance of Michigan and Autism Speaks released a video Tuesday featuring Republican Lt. Gov.-elect Brian Calley speaking in favor of the legislation. Calley, a member of the state House from Portland, has a daughter diagnosed with autism.

SERIAL STABBINGS Fresh charge filed in Mich. serial stabbings probe

FLINT, Mich. (AP) - Authorities in Flint have added a new charge of attempted murder against a man accused of a serial stabbing spree. Elias Abuelazam now is charged with three murders and six attempted murders in Genesee County, Mich., as well as an attempted murder in Toledo, Ohio. The new charge filed Tuesday accuses Abuelazam of stabbing Antoine Jackson in Burton, near Flint, on July 12. Police found him rolling around in grass with many wounds. Fourteen people were stabbed in the Flint area last spring and summer, and five died. Abuelazam is also suspected but not charged in similar attacks in Leesburg, Va. He's held in jail without bond. Defense lawyer Brian Morley had no comment.

SHOPLIFTING DEATH 2 guilty in store guard's death get life in prison

PONTIAC, Mich. (AP) - A Pontiac couple convicted in the dragging death of a Kmart loss prevention officer have been sentenced to life in prison. Forty-year-old James Woodworth and 20-year-old Samantha Lomasney apologized Tuesday during sentencing in an Oakland County court. They were convicted last month of first-degree felony murder in the January death of 36-year-old Greg Wainio. Wainio was dragged and crushed as he tried to stop the couple from driving away from a Waterford Township Kmart store with $400 in CDs. Defense attorneys had sought a lesser charge, saying the couple panicked and meant no harm. Prosecutors say their actions ended in first-degree murder. The victim's brother John Wainio told Woodworth and Lomasney at Tuesday's hearing that he wants to see them die in jail.

STEPMOM CHARGED Mich. stepmom charged in 2-year-old girl's death

NEW BALTIMORE, Mich. (AP) - A woman charged with murder has declared her innocence in the death of a 2-year-old stepdaughter in suburban Detroit. Renee King sobbed during her arraignment Tuesday in New Baltimore District Court. She pleaded with a judge to allow her to attend the girl's funeral but the request was rejected. Lily Furneaux-Wolfenbarger was found dead Saturday in a mobile home in New Haven in Macomb County. Autopsy results haven't been released. King is charged with murder, child abuse and first-degree criminal sexual conduct. She is married to the victim's father, Jeff Wolfenbarger. King told a judge, "I swear on my life I didn't do this." Prosecutor Eric Smith says six children under age 5 have been murdered this year in Macomb County.

HAMMER ATTACK-ARREST Police accuse man of attacking family with hammer

FARMINGTON HILLS, Mich. (AP) - Authorities have accused a suburban Detroit man in his 30s of attacking three family members with a hammer. Broadcast reports say the man attacked the family members in their Farmington Hills home Tuesday afternoon. Their injuries weren't believed to be life-threatening. Police haven't released the man's name or said how he is related to the victims.

APPEALS COURT-KRAUSE Granholm appoints Krause to Michigan Appeals Court

LANSING, Mich. (AP) - Gov. Jennifer Granholm has named Lansing District Judge Amy Krause to the Court of Appeals seat left open when Alton Thomas Davis was appointed to the Michigan Supreme Court. Davis earlier this month lost his bid for a full eight-year term on the Supreme Court. Granholm could have appointed the 63-year-old to fill his former position, but instead appointed the 48-year-old Krause of Lansing. Krause holds a bachelor's degree from the University of Michigan and a law degree from the University of Notre Dame. She was an assistant attorney general with the state and teaches at Thomas M. Cooley Law School in Lansing. The Fourth District Court of Appeals covers the Upper Peninsula and most of the northern and central Lower Peninsula. Her term expires at the end of 2012.

MICHIGAN ST-JOHNSON Magic Johnson to give Mich. St. commencement talk

EAST LANSING, Mich. (AP) - Michigan State University says former basketball star Earvin "Magic" Johnson will be one of three speakers for the school's December commencement ceremonies. The ceremonies are to be held Dec. 10-11 at the Breslin Center. The East Lansing school said Tuesday Johnson will speak at the 10 a.m. ceremony on Dec. 11 and also receive an honorary doctor of business degree. Also at that ceremony, Detroit Symphony Orchestra music director Leonard Slatkin will receive an honorary doctorate of fine arts. The other two commencement speakers are General Electric Co. Chairman Jeff Immelt and Indiana University political science professor Elinor Ostrom.

SNYDER-SOCIAL MEDIA Snyder administration plans big social media push

LANSING, Mich. (AP) - Rick Snyder was a virtual unknown when he kicked off his run for governor in late 2009. The former president of computer maker Gateway Inc. soon changed that through his use of Facebook and Twitter, gathering more than 35,000 Facebook fans. Now, the Republican governor-elect wants to use those tools to reach Michigan citizens as he tries to reinvent the economically troubled state. In turning to social media, Snyder is following a handful of other governors already active on the Internet such as Massachusetts Gov. Deval Patrick and Utah Gov. Gary Herbert. Michigan Lt. Gov.-elect Brian Calley says social media is a way to connect people to information "they otherwise wouldn't just naturally come across" since they're likely to spend more time on Facebook than on the state government website.

(Copyright ©2010 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)

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Friday, November 26, 2010

“FOR YOUR HEALTH - Nov. 26 - Abington Mariner”

“FOR YOUR HEALTH - Nov. 26 - Abington Mariner”


FOR YOUR HEALTH - Nov. 26 - Abington Mariner

Posted: 26 Nov 2010 07:24 AM PST

Health

Children's Hospital Blood Drive

The Children's Hospital Blood Drive will be held from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 28, at the Duxbury Senior Community Center, 10 Mayflower St., Duxbury. All Local community members who: Are at least 17 years of age or 16 with written Children's Hospital consent form sign by parents, weigh at least 110 pounds, are in generally good health, have not donated whole blood within the last 56 days, tattoo's are at least one year old

All successful donors will receive a free gift. To make an appointment call Joanne Moore at 781-934-5774 or e-mail her at joannemoore@duxburycoa.com

 

CPR for healthcare providers

Health Ed of New England will hold a CPR certification course for healthcare providers, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., Saturday, Dec. 4, at the Beal House, 222 Main St., Kingston. The cost is $45 per person. This course, sponsored by First Parish Unitarian Universalist Church, requires pre-registration by Friday, Dec. 3. For more information, call 781-582-1440 or 800-434-6000, or visit www.healthednewengland.com. 

 

Access Program

Jordan Hospital provides free primary care and anonymous counseling and testing for persons living with HIV/AIDS in Greater Plymouth through a federal Ryan White CARE Act (Title III) grant for Early Intervention Services. For information about eligibility and services provided under the grant, call Ruth Cooper, at 508-732-8981. For free anonymous counseling and testing information, call Kerry Haskell, 508-732-8982.

 

Natural Body Works offers Acupuncture

Natural Body Works, at 161 Summer St., Kingston welcomes Sarah Babcock, Lic. Ac – Licensed Acupuncturist to the staff of therapists and healers. Babcock will be offering these opportunities for you to learn about and experience Acupuncture:

Acupuncture information sessions

These informal groups will highlight how Acupuncture can help heal and balance different symptoms or conditions. Acupuncture information sessions will include demonstrations, coupons, "Acupuncture Goody Bags" and free treatment giveaways.

Acupuncture happy hours

The Healthy Happy Hour, 20 minutes every other Thursday from 6 to 7:30 p.m.

Experience 20 minutes of relaxation with a stress relieving Acupuncture treatment. No appointment is necessary – but suggest preregistration to avoid waiting 781-585-5130, naturalbodyworks@aol.com.

To learn more about Babcock and amazing journey of healing, go to "Sarah's Story" at www.naturalbodyworkskingston.com/therapists.html#sbabcock

 

Community Outreach

Cranberry Hospice offers specialized programs and services to individuals, families, schools, businesses, and other community organizations. Services may be scheduled in advance or in response to acute or more immediate needs. Call Kathleen McAleer, LICSW at 508-746-0215 or by e-mail at kmcaleer@jordanhospital.org for information or to register

 

Counseling referrals

The Social Work Therapy Referral Service offers free confidential referrals for individual, couple, family and group therapy, matched for specialty, location and insurance. A public service of the National Association of Social Workers. Call 617-720-2828 or 800-242-9794.

 

Carver Partners Home Care Clinics

The Carver office of Partners Home Care offers free blood pressure and health-screening clinics every Monday, from 11 a.m. to noon, at the Atwood House in the Carver Council on Aging; the second Monday of every month, from 9:45 to 10:45 a.m., at Meadowbrook Apartments; the third Monday of the month, from 9:45 to 10:45 a.m., at the Cranberry Village Club House; and the fourth Monday of the month, from 10 to 10:45 a.m., at the Carver Public Library on Main Street.

Anyone who wishes to have a vaccination (flu, pneumonia, TB, polio, chicken pox or hepatitis B) should call the Public Health Center at 508-747-5924 to make arrangements.

 

Emergency services program expands to Plymouth

Child and Family Services has recently been awarded the contract to continue to operate the Emergency Services Program (ES) in the Greater New Bedford area. As part of the effort to streamline services across the state, Mass Behavioral Health has made some changes to service areas inclusive of New Bedford's.

The New Bedford and Plymouth areas are now service area operated by Child & Family Services. The additional services would likely include an outpatient clinic and possibly sub acute services for children in need of a structured environment. Further expansion of services other than the ES in the Plymouth area will help the community as a whole.

The standards of this new contract are quite different from what has been provided by all Emergency Services programs to date. A primary focus of this new model will be to find ways to provide services to individuals in the community as opposed to emergency departments.

The new model that all emergency services will be operating under will include assisting individuals in recognizing their family and personal strengths in an effort to maintain individuals in a community setting. Empowering people to utilize their available strengths, supports and coping strategies can create an upward spiral for them.

 

Halifax health screenings

The Halifax office of Partners Home Care offers free blood pressure and health-screening clinics the third Monday of every month, from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Halifax Mobile Park Community Building, Redwood Drive. Additional screenings are held the second Tuesday of the month from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. at the Halifax Town Hall, meeting room 2, at 499 Plymouth St.

 

Health workshops

True Life Chiropractic and Our Healing Place are offering ongoing workshops presenting the latest information on wellness, diet and exercise. Take charge of your wellness by joining one of the upcoming workshops located at 283 Main St., Kingston. Call 781-585-0585 for information.

 

Holiday Coping Workshops

To be scheduled on various dates and times during November and December. Call Kathleen McAleer, LICSW at 508-746-0215 or by e-mail at kmcaleer@jordanhospital.org for information or to register.

 

Jordan Hospital classes

Courses are held at the Jordan Hospital, 275 Sandwich St., Plymouth.

·CPR: For all levels; held monthly; call 800-256-7326.

·First aid: Held monthly; call 800-256-7326.

·Quit tobaccoprogram: A six-class series to help individuals quit smoking or chewing tobacco; call Bette Antonellis, 508-830-2174.

·Self-management for adults learning about diabetes: A four-week series that meets once a week in two-hour sessions, at the Diabetes Education Center, 36 Cordage Park Circle, Suite 314, Plymouth; physician referral and blood test required; call Kay Grosberg, RN, 508-830-2446.

·Gestational diabetes education: Meets for two hours on an as-needed basis, at the Diabetes Education Center, 36 Cordage Park Circle, Suite 314, Plymouth; physician referral is required and blood tests are performed before and at the end of each program; call Kay Grosberg, RN, 508-830-2446.

·Visions for Tomorrow: A free, eight- to 10-week education course for primary caregivers of adolescents with brain disorders; taught by trained family-member volunteers; the curriculum covers brain biology, ADD/ADHD, PDD/autism, Tourette's, conduct disorder, bipolar disorder, depression, eating and anxiety disorders, OCD, childhood schizophrenia/psychosis; Contact Jan Holt-Kerns at 781-837-1162 for details or to register.

·Pre-op joint-replacement class: Prepares the pre-op patient for joint surgery; topics include review of physical therapy, occupational therapy, equipment and discharge planning; classes are the first Tuesday of each month at 1 p.m. at Jordan Hospital.

·Yoga: Offered at Jordan Hospital, Saturdays at 9 a.m.; cost for eight classes is $76. Call Margo Kiley at 508-224-7482 for information.

 

Mammography Center

Jordan Hospital's Mammography Center has the most sophisticated mammography unit available. Examination takes only 10 minutes. A physician referral is required. Call 508-830-2120 for further information.

 

Plympton Partners Home Care

Partners Home Care offers walk-in public health-care clinics on the second Tuesday of each month from 10 to 11 a.m. at the Plympton COA, Plympton Town Hall.

 

Simply Soothing Sanctuary

Simply Soothing Sanctuary has recently opened its doors on Summer Street, Kingston, to all those who wish to experience the many varied healing modalities it offers, including Yoga, Tai Chi, Nia and meditation. Dee and Jim Davidson have opened this studio, adjacent to their home and labyrinth, and are welcoming all who seek the calmness the sanctuary and its programs provide. For information, visit www.simplysoothingsanctuary.com or call 781-585-3912.

 

Social Work Therapy Referral Service

The Social Work Therapy Referral Service offers free confidential referrals for individual, couple, family and group therapy, matched for specialty, location and insurance. Call 617-720-2828 or 800-242-9794.

 

The Wellness Community

The Wellness Community of the South Shore, 273 Hanover St., Hanover, serves the entire South Shore with free support services for individuals dealing with a cancer diagnosis. Call 781-829-4823 or visit www.wellnesscommunity.org for information. (http://www.thewellnesscommunitymass.org).

TWC-MSS holds its second annual Festival of Wreaths gala from 7 p.m. to midnight Friday, Dec. 3, at Pembroke Country Club, Pembroke. Anyone interested in information and tickets may call 781-829-4823.

 

Wellness wrap-up events

Held the third Wednesday of the month from noon to 1 p.m. and includes a complimentary lunch, Braintree Rehabilitation Hospital's wellness wrap-up series is designed to provide area residents with the latest information on a range of relevant topics to help them live better. RSVP is required for attendance by calling 781-348-2107. Braintree Rehabilitation is located at 250 Pond St. in Braintree.

 

Women's cancer screenings

Jordan Hospital offers free physicals, including breast and cervical cancer-screening services, for eligible uninsured and underinsured women, 18 and older. Screenings are by appointment only. For information or to enroll, call the Women's Health Network at 508-830-2314.

 

Support

Al-Anon – A Road to Serenity

Al-Anon announced a new meeting being held at 9:30 a.m. Fridays in the Church of the Vine, 5 Wareham St., Carver. All those who are affected by someone else's drinking can find solutions that lead to serenity in this fellowship.

 

Alzheimer's support

An Alzheimer's family support group for adult family members and caregivers is offered by Sunrise Assisted Living of Plymouth the first Wednesday of the month, from 7 to 8 p.m., in the community center at 97 Warren Ave., Plymouth. Suzanne Baybutt, RN, BSN, leads the discussion. Free. RSVP requested. Call 508-746-9733, ext. 224.

 

Alzheimer's Support - Plymouth

A support group co-sponsored by Radius Health Care Center, to support families and friends of patients with Alzheimer's meets the first Tuesday of the month at 3:30 p.m. at Stafford Hill Assisted Living, 60 Stafford St., Plymouth. For more information call Evelyn Haight at 508-746-4343 ext. 298.

 

Alzheimer's support - Duxbury

A support group for family and friends meets the second and fourth Wednesday of the month at the Duxbury Senior Center, 10 Mayflower St., Duxbury. For information, call Brenda Corriea at 781-934-5774, ext. 26.

 

Alzheimer's Support Group - Marshfield

The Memory Care Program at Allerton House at Proprietors Green, 10 Village Green Way in Marshfield is holding a monthly Alzheimer's support group for caregivers of individuals with early stages Alzheimer's disease. The group meets from 10:30 a.m. to noon the third Wednesday of each month. Facilitated by Joyce Watson O'Neil, LICSW, co-director of the Memory Care Program at Allerton House at Proprietors Green and Joan Wright, CMC, Geriatric Case Manager, VNA and Hospice of Norwell. For more information call Joyce Watson O'Neill, at 781-834-7885, ext. 114.

 

Battered women's support

South Shore Women's Center offers a group for women age 57 and older who are being hurt, humiliated, controlled or degraded by a partner or loved one. Sessions are confidential and free. For information, call Ann at 781-582-0078.

 

Beacon Hospice support groups

Coping with Grief during the Holiday Season

Beacon Hospice is offering two special support groups for people who are grieving the death of a loved one during the upcoming holiday season. 

Evening sessions will meet for 6 weeks at the Beacon Hospice office, 32 Resnik Road, Plymouth, from 6 to 7:30 p.m. Thursdays.

Daytime sessions will meet for 6 weeks at the Plymouth Council on Aging, 10 Cordage Park Circle, Plymouth, from 1 to 2:30 p.m. Mondays.

Pre-registration is required. These groups are free of charge and are open to anyone in the community. Call Scott Ciosek, Bereavement Coordinator, at 508-747-7222.

 

Duxbury House Alzheimer's Care Center support group

Duxbury House Alzheimer's Care Center will be hosting a monthly Alzheimer's support group in the tavern at Bay Path Rehabilitation & Nursing Center, 308 Kingstown Way, in Duxbury. The group will be led by Sandi Wright, RN, and Eilish Broderick-Murphy, and will meet from 7 to 8:30 p.m. the first Tuesday of each month. The group is open to all families, friends, and caregivers who have a loved one affected by Alzheimer's disease, and anyone who would like to attend is welcome. For more information contact Sandi Wright or Eilish Broderick-Murphy, at 781-585-2397 or call Bay Path Rehabilitation & Nursing Center at 781-585-5561.

 

Hear Together support group

Hear Together is a local nonprofit support group for families with children who are deaf or hard of hearing. The group provides support and an information network for families of children with all degrees of hearing loss in Plymouth and surrounding towns. Meetings are the last Monday of every month at 7 p.m. at Mt. Pleasant Preschool on Whiting Street in Plymouth. Throughout the year family friendly events and parties are also held so children have the opportunity to meet and socialize with each other. For more information call Cathy at 508-830-1765 or e-mail heartogether@Comcast.net.

 

Breastfeeding information and support

La Leche League of Silver Lake meets the second Thursday of each month. The group will meet at the Duxbury Free Library on Alden Street in the Merry Room at 7:15 p.m. For breastfeeding questions or further meeting information, contact Lisa 781-829-9075 or Krishyon 781-294-7477.

 

Breastfeeding support

All breastfeeding mothers and expectant mothers interested in breastfeeding are invited to attend this support group, which is hosted by peer counselors who are trained through the lactation center of the BirthPlace at Jordan Hospital and the Plymouth WIC office. The support group meets from 10 a.m. to noon every Friday, except holidays, at the Jordan Health and Wellness Center, 430 Plymouth St., Route 106, Halifax. For information, call 800-750-5343.

 

Caregiver support program

Old Colony Elderly Services sponsors the Family Caregiver Support Program, which provides support to caregivers through education, advocacy and information on available resources. Services are free. Call 800-242-0246.

 

Children's bereavement

Support group for children grieving over the deaths of loved ones, sponsored by Cranberry Hospice. For information, call Sunrise Assisted Living of Plymouth, 508-830-2720. While the children are meeting, there is a parents' group that meets to discuss ways to help grieving children.

 

Epilepsy family support

The South Shore Epilepsy Parent and Family Support Network meet the first Tuesday of every month, from 7 to 9 p.m., at the Loring Community Center in Plymouth. For details, call Susan Welby at 617-506-6041, ext. 19.

 

Family Caregiver Support Program

The Family Caregiver Support Program at Old Colony Elderly Services, Inc. (OCES) in Brockton and Comfort Keepers in Plymouth, have established a free monthly Family Caregiver Support Group. The group meets the first Wednesday of each month from 6 to 7:30 p.m., and offers educational focused meetings, guidance and reassurance while enabling the exchange of practical ideas. Meetings will be held a Comfort Keepers located at 37 Industrial Park Road in Plymouth.

 

Food Addicts in Recovery

Food Addicts in Recovery is a nonprofit, 12-step program for individuals recovering from addictive eating. Local meetings are held Mondays at 6:30 p.m. at St. Gabriels Church, 124 Front St., Marion; Tuesdays at 7 p.m. and Fridays at 8 a.m. at the Church of the Good Shepherd, 74 High St., Wareham; Wednesdays at 9 a.m. at the YMCA, 33 Charge Pond Road, Wareham; Thursdays at 6:30 p.m. at the Oxford Terrace Senior Housing, 275 Main St., Fairhaven; and Sundays at 6:30 p.m. at St. Joseph Church, 17 Spring St., Fairhaven. There are no dues, fees or weigh-ins. For information, call 781-321-9118 or visit the website www.foodaddicts.org.

 

Hope Floats Healing and Wellness Center

Grief support group

The group will meet from 6 to 7:30 p.m. Sunday, at Hope Floats Healing and Wellness Center, 4 Elm St., Kingston. This group is open to anyone who is suffering the loss of a loved one.

Weight loss confidential for teens support group

The group meeting will be from 5:30 to 7 p.m. The group will provide how to build and sustain a healthy relationship with food and appropriate ways for losing weight for a healthy weight. The cost is $15 per group session. There will be two groups per month at Hope Floats Healing and Wellness Center, 4 Elm St., Kingston. For information, call 781-936-8068.

Grief Healing through Mind, Body and Spirit

 Hope Floats Healing and Wellness Center, 4 Elm St., Kingston: Six-week program offers a combination of yoga, nia, reiki, reflexology and healing touch. The group meets from 6:30 to 8 p.m. every other Monday, for five sessions. Call Kathleen McAleer, LICSW at 508-746-0215 or by e-mail at kmcaleer@jordanhospital.org for information or to register.

 

 

Jordan Hospital support groups

The Jordan Hospital, located at 275 Sandwich St. in Plymouth, offers numerous support groups on a regular basis. Visit www.jordanhospital.org or call 508-746-2000 for details.

·Adult loss: This group meets in Cordage Park in Plymouth throughout the year and is led by a clinician and experienced volunteers. Meetings are held for five sessions. The daytime sessions are every other Wednesday from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. and the evening group is every other Wednesday from 5 to 6:30 p.m. Call Kathleen McAleer at 508-746-0215 for details.

·Alzheimer's: A support group meets the first Tuesday of each month, at Stafford Hill, 60 Stafford St., Plymouth. Call Caitlin Bates for information, 508-746-4343, ext. 298.

·Anklyosing Spondylitis (AS) Support Group:This group is for AS patients, family members, and caregivers of those who live with Anklyosing Spondylitis. The group meets from 6:30 to 8 p.m. the fourth Wednesday of every other month at Jordan Hospital. The meeting is free and open to the public. All are welcome and no registration required. For information call Jim Igo at 508-291-5017.

·Cancer: This drop-in support group is for all types of cancer patients and their caregivers. Meets the second and fourth Thursday of the month from 11 a.m. to noon in the Cancer Center at the Jordan Hospital.

·Caregivers: Meets third Thursday of the month, from 6:30 to 8 p.m. at Duxbury Senior Cener, 10 Mayflower St., Duxbury. Call Joan Wright at 781-659-2342 or Donna Ciappina at 781-934-5774, ext. 105.

·Children's/teen's bereavement support: Every other Tuesdays, from 6:30 to 8 p.m.; call Kathleen McAleer at 508-746-0215 or e-mail at kmcaleer@jordanhospital.org for details or to register.

·Chronic fatigue immune dysfunction syndrome (CFIDS)/fibromyalgia: Meets the last Sunday of each month, from 2 to 4 p.m.; discussion, videotape presentation and written information; call Mike Banner at 781-585-3483.

·Depression after delivery: Meets the second Thursday of each month, from 7 to 8:30 p.m., in the meditation room on the third floor; all new mothers and their families are welcome; call Gerri Piatelli at 781-837-4242.

·Diabetes: For patients, families and friends of diabetics; meets at the Diabetes Education Center, 36 Cordage Park Circle, Suite 314, Plymouth, the second Wednesday of each month, 6 to 7 p.m.; for information, call Kay Grosberg, RN, 508-830-2446.

·Gamblers Anonymous: Thursdays, 7:30 to 9 p.m. in Boyton Conference Room. 12-step recovery program.

·Lupus: The Greater Plymouth Lupus Group meets once a month except in July and August. Call Nicole Peterson for details, 781-582-8770.

·Men's support: Meets at Hope Floats Healing and Wellness Center in Kingston every other Thursday for five sessions, 7 to 8 p.m. Call Kathleen McAleer at 508-746-0215.

·NAMI (National Alliance on Mental Illness): NAMI is a nonprofit organization serving Plymouth and nine surrounding communities. NAMI sponsors a free Family to Family support group Thursdays from 7 to 8:30 p.m. at Jordan Hospital, for family members and caregivers of those living with depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia or other psychiatric disorders. This is program is free and open to the public.

·Sexual assault: This group meets for 12-week sessions and is free of charge for survivors. Call Ann Hoban at 508-830-2835 for information.

·Stroke: The "Coffee Hour" Stroke Club is a support group offering guest speakers and group discussion aimed at the challenges facing victims of stroke and their families. Meets the first Thursday of each month, noon to 2 p.m., call 508-830-2104 for information. The group is made up primarily of people who have suffered strokes, but loved ones, spouses and caregivers of stroke survivors are encouraged to attend.

·Suicide loss: Meetings are in Cordage Park in Plymouth every other Thursday from 6:30 to 8 p.m. Call Kathleen McAleer at 508-746-0215 for details.

·Transplants: STATS, the Second Time Around Transplant support group, is for organ recipients, those waiting for a transplant, donors, family members and anyone with an interest. Meets the second Tuesday of the month from 6 to 9 p.m. at Jordan Hospital. For information call Bob Fredericks at 774-269-1283.

·Young Adult Group:Locations: Duxbury, Kingston and Plymouth: For grieving teens and young adults. Meeting held every other Tuesday. Groups generally held from 6:30 to 8 p.m. subject to change depending on group activity. Call Kathleen McAleer, LICSW at 508-746-0215 or by e-mail at kmcaleer@jordanhospital.org for information or to register.

 

Kingston family caregivers can receive reimbursement

Kingston family caregivers can receive reimbursement to care for elders at home. Caregiver Homes, a program that provides community based housing options for elders and disabled adults in need of daily care and assistance, is now accepting referrals in Kingston. For more information about the Caregivers Home program or to see if your family qualifies, call Denise Baxter, LCSW, at 617-997-6243 or visit the program website at www.caregiverhomes.com.

 

New Beginnings for Singles

Plymouth New Beginnings for Singles is a nonprofit, nondenominational organization offering support and social activities for single, separated, divorced and widowed adults. Meetings are held every Tuesday from 6 to 9 p.m. at the Plymouth United Methodist Church, 29 Carver Road, Plymouth. Call Elaine at 508-697-7507, the church at 508-746-1642, or visit www.PlymouthNewBeginnings.com for information.

 

New Beginnings

New Beginnings, a nonprofit, nonsectarian support organization for single, widowed, separated and divorced men and women, has helped more than 9,400 south shore residents start a new life over the past 20 years. New Beginnings offers a safe place for healing and encouragement as you start a new chapter of your life. New Beginnings meets every Monday at the UCC Church, 460 Main St., Norwell, from 6:30 to 9 p.m. Support groups meet from 6:30 to 7:30p.m., followed by social time and the evening's program or speaker. Orientation is from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. each Monday and is highly recommended for newcomers or returning members. All are welcome. For more information, call Peggy Loud at 781-659-1857 or e-mail uccnorwell@aol.com.

 

South Coast Lupus Group

The Greater Plymouth Lupus Group has a new name, new location and new time. The name is now the South Coast Lupus Group. The meetings are at the Bourne Council on Aging, 239 Main Street, Buzzards Bay. The new time is 1 to 3 p.m. the 2nd Monday of each month. The meetings are open to patients, family and friends. There is no registration. For anyone interested: Lunch is served prior to the meeting, at the Bourne Council on Aging for a nominal fee and reservations must be made by Friday by calling 508-759-0653. For further information regarding meetings call Nicole Peterson 781-582-8770.

 

South Shore OCD Support Group

The South Shore OCD Support Group holds monthly meetings for adults suffering from OCD, parents of children suffering from OCD or friends and family of adults suffering from OCD. The group meets the second Wednesday of each month at 7 p.m. at South Shore Mental Health, 64 Industrial Park Road, Plymouth. No cost. Wheelchair accessible. Call Barbara Lashley at 508-830-1630 for more information.

 

Overeaters Anonymous

Overeaters Anonymous is a 12-Step program for recovering from compulsive overeating. There are no dues, no fees and no weigh-ins. We welcome everyone who has a problem with food including overeaters, anorexics, and bulimics. For nearest meeting and further information, call 781-925-1903 or visit the website www.oaregion6.org.

 

Parents Helping Parents

Are you feeling frustrated or overwhelmed as a parent? Raising children isn't easy. That's why Parents Helping Parents hosts free and confidential parent support groups that meet weekly in many locations throughout Massachusetts. At a parent support group, you will find a caring, non-judgmental community of parents who can offer practical advice and experience. Free childcare is provided in many locations. Call toll-free, 800-632-8188, or e-mail info@parentshelpingparents.org for more information on the group nearest you.

 

Plymouth Men's Group

The Plymouth Men's Group is a social/support group for gay men of the South Shore. The group has been meeting in Plymouth Wednesday evenings since 1996. Visit capecodgaypride.org for information.

 

SSHAGLY

The South Shore Alliance of Gay, Lesbian, Transgendered, Bisexual, Questioning and Allied Youth can offer a safe place for young people, aged 14 to 22, to find camaraderie and support by providing an environment where they can speak openly and in safety. Meetings take place every Monday, from 7 to 9 p.m., at First Parish Church, 24 River St., Norwell. Call 781-789-7629, or e-mail sshagly@hotmail.com.

 

Plymouth AIDS Support Services

The South Shore AIDS Project offers referrals for free, confidential HIV tests, assistance with utilities, housing, transportation, groceries and nutrition, free condoms and referrals to medical, dental, mental-health and substance-abuse treatment facilities for those with HIV/AIDS. Assistance is also available for social, legal, SSI and MassHealth issues, and qualified MassHealth-recipient referrals to adult-care living programs. Stop by 123-1 Camelot Drive in Plymouth, or call 508-747-2189 or 508-747-5359 to speak to a case manager or leave a confidential message.

 

South Shore Women's Center

South Shore Women's Center High Point Outpatient in Manomet offers group meetings for women affected by domestic violence and substance abuse. Groups also meet in Hingham, Kingston and Middleboro. The clothing and food pantry has regular hours from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Volunteers are always welcome. Call 781-582-0078.

 

Vineyard Church Support Groups

Divorce Support Group

Are you heartbroken over divorce or separation? You are not alone. DivorceCare can help you discover hope and experience healing. DivorceCare is a 13-week video seminar with discussion in a support group of people who understand what you are experiencing. Topics focus on recovering from hurt, anger, depression, loneliness and more. DivorceCare meets Monday nights, from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. at The Vineyard Community Church, 8 Hilltop Ave., Kingston. For information, call 781-588-3733 or www.thevineyardkingston.org.

 DivorceCare for KIDS

DC4K is a special support group for kids ages 5-12 to help them heal from the hurt caused by the separation or divorce of their parents. At our ongoing 13-week, self contained revolving sessions, we combine games, crafts, activities, music and DVD drama to create a fun atmosphere where kids can feel comfortable and accepted as they process the feelings they are having over their families breakup. DC4K meets Monday nights 6:30-8:30 at The Vineyard Community Church, 8 Hilltop Ave., Kingston. For information, call 781-588-3733 or www.thevineyardkingston.org.

Celebrate Recovery Support Group

Celebrate Recovery is a support group for men and woman who are in recovery from living life in a dysfunctional world. We help with struggles with anxiety, depression, co-dependency, drug and alcohol dependency, gambling issues, food issues, and other life problems. Meetings are Tuesday nights, Fellowship Dinner from 6 to 6:45 p.m., Teaching/Testimonies from 7 to 8 p.m., Separate Men and Women's Open Share Groups from 8 to 9 p.m., and Koinonia Café (coffee and fellowship) from 9 to 9:45 p.m. at the Vineyard Community Church, 8 Hilltop Ave., Kingston. For information, call John 508-287-6555 or www.thevineyardkingston.org.

Men's 12 Step Recovery Group

This is a Men's 12 Step Christ Centered Recovery program that aims to bring freedom from the junk in our lives that keeps us from being the men God created us to be. If all your pursuits to find joy in your life or to cover up pain have only led to more pain and emptiness, maybe it is time to consider a different path. Meetings are Wednesday at 7 p.m. at the Faunce Church, 158 Halfway Pond Road, Plymouth. For e information, call John 508-287-9610.

Grief Recovery Group

If you have experienced one or more of the 43 losses that produce grief, and you wish to move beyond the pain, this program offers you help in processing your grief and living joy filled lives. Meetings are Wednesday at 7 p.m. at the Vineyard Community Church, 8 Hilltop Ave., Kingston. For information, call Donna Nelson 781-534-5579.

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Thursday, November 25, 2010

“New CAMHS Tier 4 Service for Young People With Autism Opening December - Yahoo Finance” plus 1 more

“New CAMHS Tier 4 Service for Young People With Autism Opening December - Yahoo Finance” plus 1 more


New CAMHS Tier 4 Service for Young People With Autism Opening December - Yahoo Finance

Posted: 25 Nov 2010 12:01 AM PST

Press Release Source: Arventa Healthcare On Thursday November 25, 2010, 3:00 am EST

POTTERS BAR, England, November 25, 2010 /PRNewswire/ -- The Hawksmere Centre, Healthcare and Education for Young People with Autism, is the UK's first CAMHS Tier 4 service designed to meet the challenging and complex needs of young people with autism and Asperger syndrome. The Centre provides a national inpatient service, offering a safe and secure environment which can respond flexibly and robustly to the individual young person's needs.

Quote from Christina Wallis, General Manager, The Hawksmere Centre:

"The National Autistic Society's campaign, 'You Need to Know' clearly echos our experiences and belief that too many young people with autism are not getting early or appropriate support, which could lead to the development of mental health issues and can have a long term implications on their emotional wellbeing and life opportunities. The Hawksmere Centre focuses on providing person centred care for young people with Autism and Asperger syndrome when they may be experiencing mental health issues, forensic issues, crisis in their current placement or require a period of assessment. Our aim is to work with individuals, their families and commissioners to create a care, treatment and management plan that manages risk whilst maximising opportunity and personal development. "

Notes for Editors:

Arventa Healthcare

Established in 2009, Arventa Healthcare was formed by a group of care professionals experienced in working with young people with Autism and Asperger syndrome. We believe that young people with Autistic Spectrum Conditions (ASC) are unique and deserve a service that will recognise, understand and meet their individual needs and be able to support their transition into adulthood via an ASC specific care pathway. Arventa Healthcare is proud to announce the opening of The Hawksmere Centre - Healthcare and Education for Young People with Autism.

The Hawksmere Centre is the UK's first Child and Adolescent Mental Health Service (CAMHS) exclusively for young people with Autism and Asperger syndrome. This specialist service will provide a person centred care package enabling young people with ASC to continue their education whilst receiving intensive assessment, therapeutic intervention and support in a safe and secure environment.

As a CAMHS Tier 4 service Hawksmere plays an important role in the intervention and prevention of adolescent mental health problems. Appropriate early intervention can help to reduce the need for adult in-patient mental health services.

For further information please visit our website at http://www.arventahealthcare.com or contact us on +44(0)1707-39-39-39

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Happy Thanksgiving: All I Can Handle in this Age of Autism - Huffingtonpost.com

Posted: 24 Nov 2010 06:03 PM PST

As we express our gratitude, we must never forget that the highest appreciation is not to utter words, but to live by them. -- John Fitzgerald Kennedy

Ten days ago, I attended the National Autism Association's (NAA) annual conference in Florida and was thrilled to be able to spend a little time with so many autism parents, advocates and other authors. I have been trying to find the time to sit down and write proper reviews for two important and recently published books. However, I have been more time-challenged than usual as I am 'negotiating' with the powers that be here in San Diego for the supports needed as my 21-year-old son with autism transitions into adult services. (Parents of younger children, if you feel you have it tough right now dealing with the school district or systems in place: you haven't a clue. It only gets worse unless you own two homes -- one for you, and one for your child when he turns 18. Helpful coping strategies for parents of teens may include the three V's: Vodka, Valium and Vacation, but I digress).

Age of Autism: Mercury, Medicine and a Man-Made Epidemic by Dan Olmsted and Mark Blaxill is a critical book for all humans to read -- not just those interested in autism. Most would agree that environmental health is a concern to all of us and impacts everyone's daily life. You'd have to have your head stuck in the sand (hopefully not on the Texas Gulf Coast) to believe otherwise. This book explains how, as Robert K. Kennedy Jr. puts it, "medical and manufacturing interests have mounted an assault on human health."

All I Can Handle -- I'm No Mother Teresa: A Life Raising Three Daughters With Autism by Kim Stagliano is also a relevant read. Stagliano's personal account of raising children on the spectrum will make you alternately laugh and weep, and more importantly gives the reader an insight as to how profoundly autism changes families. All community members should read this book -- because Kim's daughters have the same needs that many of our children do in the autism community, and this is another environmental and monetary impact you won't be able to escape. Gianna, Bella, Mia are here, and they are not going away, Neither are the Jeremys, the Ians, the Sams, and the Blazes.


The autism community is often divided on what it believes autism is or is not, what does or does not cause autism, whether autism is a form of neurodiversity or not, and so on. As for me, I believe that autism is best described with the Parable of the Blind Men and the Elephant. Six blind men feel a different part of the elephant, and thus each have their own opinion about what the elephant is, based on their examination and interpretation of the part of the elephant they are exploring. The autism community has it's differing opinions, because all of our perceptions and experiences are a part of the mystery that is autism: we share a similar label but our personal stories, perceptions, beliefs, and truths are different. And this needs to be respected. However, I believe that there cannot be any arguments to the fact that we are polluting our environment, our health, our elderly relatives' health, and our children's health in many different ways, and the world has got to start paying attention to this very real fact.

As Thanksgiving looms, I am grateful for all the people I have met on this autism journey -- regardless of which part of the elephant they are feeling and interpreting. We each have our own truths. Our beliefs may be different, but our goals are the same: a happy, healthy, love-filled and productive life -- as independent and self-determined as possible.

Happy Thanksgiving, and may your blessings be many.

 

 

 

Follow Chantal Sicile-Kira on Twitter: www.twitter.com/sicilekira

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Wednesday, November 24, 2010

“IQ Score Not Predictive of Academic Performance in Children With Autism - Medscape News” plus 1 more

“IQ Score Not Predictive of Academic Performance in Children With Autism - Medscape News” plus 1 more


IQ Score Not Predictive of Academic Performance in Children With Autism - Medscape News

Posted: 24 Nov 2010 06:58 AM PST

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Autism coverage supporters push for Michigan law - Detroit News

Posted: 23 Nov 2010 09:39 PM PST

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