The first step is to download our Intake Form so we can get can get background information. You can also call (416-224-5959) or e-mail info@isand.ca and ask to have a copy sent to you. An intake meeting by phone will be scheduled to further discuss information included in the Intake Form, scheduling preferences, etc.
Author: Umma Habiba
Do I need a referral from my family doctor in order to get services from ISAND?
A physician referral is only needed to see our developmental paediatricians and physicians. Families can self-refer for all other services and programs.
Are services at ISAND free?
Only services provided by our physicians are covered by OHIP. All other services are provided on a fee-for-service basis. Some Employee Benefit Plans or other insurance plans provide coverage for some of our therapies. Some therapies and programs may be eligible for Tax Credits through CRA. Other government (individualized) funding like The Ontario Autism Program Childhood Budget; Special Services at Home (SSAH) or Passport funding can be used to pay for ISAND services. ISAND also seeks grants and undertakes fundraising to help keep costs down for families.
What Clinical Disciplines are represented by ISAND Therapists?
Developmental Paediatrics; Clinical Psychology; Social Work; Speech & Language, Occupational, and Behavioural Therapy; Social work; Education; Nutrition; and Yoga/Rhythmic Movement
What do you mean by “Integrated”?
ISAND’s Therapists (Clinicians) come from nine different backgrounds and work together to provide evidence based therapies for children, youth and young adults living with autism spectrum disorder and/or other neurodevelopmental disorders including: Attention Deficit and Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD); Intellectual Disabilities; Communication Disorders; Specific Learning Disorders; Fragile X Syndrome; and Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD).
What does “ISAND” stand for?
ISAND is stands for “Integrated Services for Autism and Neurodevelopmental Disorders”
ISAND Reacts to Minassian Verdict
It is with some relief that Justice Anne Molloy ruled against the Not Criminally Responsible (NCR) plea used by the defence of John Doe (Alex Minassian) because of his ASD diagnosis. John Doe was found guilty today of all charges laid against him for the April 2018 van attack in Toronto in which ten people were killed and sixteen others wounded.
We hope that today’s verdict brings some measure of closure to the families of the victims.
The defence team argued that Mr. Doe, did not know that his actions were morally wrong. In her sixty eight (68) page verdict, Justice Molloy was clearly of the opinion that Mr. Doe thought about the crimes he was going to commit, put in significant planning and considered the consequences of his actions. “Mr. Doe, understands that death is permanent. He understood the impact that his actions would have on his family and the families of his victims. He knew that what he was planning do to was morally wrong by society’s standards”, said Justice Molloy when presenting her verdict.
Although a measure of justice has been served, many in the autism community are concerned about the lasting impact of the defence strategy. Incorrect perceptions about people on the spectrum lacking empathy, or being violent were somehow reinforced by the defence tactics and the media coverage. The fact that Mr. Doe’s on-line radicalization, his quest to be famous, and his misogyny were the significant factors behind his crimes, may, unfortunately, be overshadowed by his diagnosis of ASD.
It’s up to each and every one of us to take every opportunity that we have to inform the public of the real factors behind these horrific accidents.
Holland Bloorview and Sick Kids offers COVID Testing for Children with Autism and other Neurodevelopmental Disorders
The complementary nature of the collaboration between Holland Bloorview and SickKids means more choice for children and youth with medical complexity and developmental conditions, and their families, in the following ways:
· Booking an appointment by calling one central number: 416-419-4623. The line is open from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. seven days a week, staffed by Holland Bloorview and SickKids staff.
· The option for testing at a downtown (SickKids) location during daytime hours (Monday to Friday and Sunday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.) or uptown (Holland Bloorview) location during some evening hours (Monday and Wednesday, 5 p.m. to 9 p.m.) and Saturdays, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.
· Having the testing swab taken inside the vehicle or tent outside (SickKids) or in an indoor setting (Holland Bloorview).
Thank You to All of Our 2020 Hope Campaign Donors
Up to December 18, more than $24,000 has been collected from:
Individuals
| Jeffrey Alpert | Cindy Bieber | Jon Bricker | Bob Butella |
| Vivian Cafazzo | Tina Capobianco | Michelle Caskie | Maya and Steve Castle |
| Glen Dalzell | Rita Dann | Elia DiLoreto | Kelly D’Souza |
| Vivian Ellis | Christine Fischer Guy | Brian Fiset | Alex George |
| Nora Gold | Jeffrey Good | David Gray | Marion Greenberg |
| Lou Guadagni | Umma Habiba | Silham Haddad | Susan Harris |
| Christian Hernandez | Murray Irving | Tammy Kemp | Angela Lai |
| Amhlaoibh Lynch | Mary Mallin | Umberto Martini | Steve McDonald |
| Michael Miller | Leah Miltchin | Mike Moran | Saul Muskat |
| Gail Nixon | Karan Puri | Barry Richler | Oscar Rombola |
| Matthew Rosenberg | Beatrice Sanchez | Alexandra Schwabe | Rosanna Soda |
| Peter Stabins | Manon Thivierge | Gordon Turner | Jackie Ventresca |
| Michelle Volpatti | Kenneth Young | Pat Zita |
Corporations
- Caledon Hills Private Wealth – Holliswealth
- eCapital Fright Factoring
- Effective Professional Consulting Group
- Hop Skip Marketing
- JC Enterprises
- JD Factors
- Phenix Group
- Silver Apple Foundation
ISAND nominated for 2020 International Peace Award
The International Peace Awards, presented by the Gandian Initiative for Development of Support Services (GIDSS), aim to promote Peace, Harmony and Community Service around the world. There are thousands of people around the world who are dedicating their lives to help the needy and marginalized groups without any personal gain. Through these awards, their efforts will be acknowledged and brought before others to inspire similar initiatives.
ISAND has been nominated for this prestigious award in the category of Disability Empowerment in recognition of our adaptability in providing services during the COVID-19 Pandemic. Winners to be announced at the awards ceremony to be held January 2, 2021.