To address the overwhelming need for clinical research, accurate diagnoses and appropriate treatments for those living with autism, Dr. Gary Stobbe, Board Certified Neurologist, opened the non-profit Autism Spectrum Treatment and Research Center July 7, 2003.

ASTAR Center’s multidisciplinary team of physicians, educationalists, psychologists and therapists are dedicated to building partnerships with families and coordination among providers to offer the optimal blend of services for affected families.

SERVICES
ASTAR Center provides Comprehensive Diagnostic and Treatment Services and Research Opportunities

Medical
ASTAR provides medical diagnostic, treatment and management services for people of all ages and degrees of severity of disability. Families in need of diagnoses or re-evaluations receive a comprehensive neurological exam, and review of current treatment program and medical history. ASTAR physicians partner with families to create a practical treatment plan going forward and offer support through the lifespan.

Behavioral/Educational
ASTAR educational and behavioral consultants offer evaluation, standardized testing, educational program planning and behavioral consultation. Consultants work with families to create individual programs to meet each child’s and family’s unique situation.

Complementary and Ancillary Services
ASTAR Center providers have cooperative working relationships with many autism professionals outside of the core ASTAR team and refer to these providers when appropriate. Several of these autism experts hold clinic hours at the ASTAR Center which allows for ultimate coordination of care for your family. Specialist services include speech therapy, naturopathic medicine, nutritional consultation, occupational therapy, auditory integration and vision therapy, and clinical psychology and family counseling.

Social and Life Skills Groups
ASTAR currently offers limited programs for pre-schoolers and is creating curriculum for teens and young adults.

Research
ASTAR Center is currently involved in several investigator initiated and national studies. We also work with the University of Washington (as well as several other research facilities) and will refer families when appropriate.

Professional Training
ASTAR Center operates as an educational center for University of Washington Medical Students, Department of Pediatric Residents, Swedish Medical Center Family Practice Residents and Seattle Pacific University Department of Psychology.