Our Vision...

The vision of the Hussman Institute for Autism is to improve the lives of individuals with autism and their families by advancing the understanding of the causes and neurological basis of autism; identifying potential long-term interventions; and creating a continuum of supports and resources to address immediate needs for research-based teaching methods, communication, inclusion, and independence. Our perspective is not that autism is a condition that must be eliminated with a cure, nor that those with autism must be turned over to be "normalized" by therapists in segregated settings. Rather, our goal is to provide research and resources to support those with autism within their homes, schools and communities and enable learning, inclusion, communication, and meaningful relationships through day-to-day engagement with those around them.

Presume Competence: A guide to successful, evidence-based principles for supporting and engaging individuals with autism