VT Autism Clinic & Center for Autism Research

Merging science with service through 

interventions, education, and research. 

The Virginia Tech Autism Clinic & Center for Autism Research (VTAC/CAR), located in Blacksburg, Virginia, works under the VT Psychological Services Center and with the VT Child Study Center to offer diagnostic assessments for infants/toddlers, children, adolescents, and adults who are suspected to have Autism Spectrum Disorder. Since it's founding, VTAC/CAR remains the only autism specialty clinic and research center in Southwest Virginia and works to provide, promote, and disseminate evidence-based clinical practices by merging science with service. Through innovative programming offered on a sliding scale, we aim to improve access to essential specialty services for autistic individuals and their families.  

The Center's director trains and supervises a team of graduate level Clinical Science PhD students in the provision of services, outreach, and research activities. These students learn to conduct comprehensive diagnostic assessments for all ages and develop individualized treatment approaches for each child/family based on evidence-based behavioral and cognitive behavioral strategies. 

Additionally, graduate students receive innovative clinical experience through our signature initiative, the Mobile Autism Clinic (MAC).  The MAC expands rural access to specialty providers and allows student clinicians a real-world glimpse at clinical work in under-resourced communities, providing a unique perspective from which to conduct research and service in the field of clinical science.  The MAC, a used 29-foot RV that has been remodeled to include space for therapy and assessments, was purchased in 2017 through grant funding (see video and photos below), and provides a unique training opportunity for student clinicians who conduct assessments and interventions on board.  

None of our service can happen without your generosity.

Our mission:  To improve the quality of life for individuals with autism and their families through intervention, education, and research directed towards effective therapy and supports.