About Us
Founded in 2022, the Mary W. Parker Autism Center at the Institute of Living provides comprehensive, evidence-based diagnostic evaluations, psychiatric consultation, innovative research, and community and professional education and training. We are dedicated to supporting individuals, families, and communities throughout Connecticut through exceptional clinical care, research, education, and collaboration.
Clinical Services, Education, and Consultation
Diagnostic Evaluations
- Comprehensive diagnostic evaluations using evidence-based and best-practice tools
- Integrated reports with individualized treatment recommendations•
- Structured feedback sessions
Medication Consultation
- Psychiatric diagnostic evaluations to inform medication and treatment recommendations
- Consultation with psychiatric providers regarding on-going medication management
Education, Training and Consultation
- Education and training for professionals, organizations, families, and community audiences
- Consultation on autism, neurodevelopmental disabilities, neurodiversity affirming care, and related topics
- Presentations for professional and community conferences, meetings, trainings, and other educational events upon request
Research
The Mary W. Parker Autism Center’s Research Program works in conjunction with the Institute of Living’s Olin Neuropsychiatry Research Center, the Anxiety Disorders Center, and the Clinical Trials Unit to conduct studies that aim to improve our understanding of ASD and related conditions. Our main goals are to develop and improve personalized treatment options for individuals with ASD across the lifespan based on robust neuroscientific research evidence.
See below for studies currently recruiting participants and to read about how you can help!
Social Cognitive Processing in Adults with ASD
This study is funded by the National Institutes of Health (NIMH) and aims to improve understanding of social cognitive processes in adults with autism. You may be eligible to participate in this study if:
- You are on the autism spectrum (including previous diagnoses of Asperger’s or PDD-NOS)
- You are fluent in English
- You are between the ages of 18-35
Participants complete interviews, cognitive tasks, and questionnaires, as well as 7 MRI brain scans. Participants also receive a type of non-invasive brain stimulation called TMS (Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation). Total participation is around 5 visits, each ranging from 3-6 hours long. Participants are eligible for up to $660 in compensation.
To learn more and see if you may be eligible, click the button below:
Research Participant Screening Form
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Additional Resources
The following websites provide high-quality information and resources focused on supporting autistic individuals and their families:
Autism Services & Resources Connecticut (ASRC) – Facilitates advocacy, training, and family support throughout the state of Connecticut. ASRC offers a professional resource guide, regular events, and in-person and virtual support group meetings.
Autistic Self-Advocacy Network (ASAN) – Organization working to advance disability rights with regard to autism, including policy and legal advocacy related to research priorities, community engagement, and other domains in keeping with their motto: “Nothing About Us, Without Us.”
Language Use of Autistic Individuals: