Autism: a needs assessment of services offered in Humboldt County, CA

This project examined the needs of parents/caregivers of individuals with autism in Humboldt County. Quantitative data analysis consisted of a survey examining levels of awareness, importance of, and access to supports and services. Qualitative data analysis explored the extent to which parents of individuals with autism spectrum disorder were accessing available services, the needs of the families and individuals with autism spectrum disorder, and barriers to accessing available services. A needs assessment was utilized to explore the parent-identified needs of individuals with autism spectrum disorder. Findings revealed that parents were unaware of three key services: Paid Neighbors (82%), Paid Roommates (72%), and Infant Stimulation (68%). Parents reported three main services that were most important: Diagnosis (80%), Treatment (80%), and Speech Therapy (76%). Parents identified three significant services that were difficult or somewhat difficult to access were: Treatment (60%), Occupational Therapy (44%), and Education (44%). Parent identified themes surrounding unawareness of services, most important services, and services that were difficult to access had a range of 44% to 80%. Thirteen interviews were conducted with parents, an adult with autism spectrum disorder and service providers. Primary themes derived from semi-structured interviews were access, satisfaction with, dissatisfaction with, and barriers to services. The intent of this project was to design a template for future needs assessments focusing on the lives of the parents and people with ASD residing in rural areas.