Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) is a diagnostic term used to describe impacts on the brain and body of individuals prenatally exposed to alcohol. FASD is a lifelong disability. Individuals diagnosed with FASD will experience some degree of challenges in their daily living, and may need support with motor skills, physical health, learning, memory, attention, communication, emotional regulation, and social skills to reach their full potential. Each individual diagnosed with FASD is unique and has areas of both strengths and challenges.
Individuals referred to the clinic are eligible for assessment by a multi-disciplinary team, once pre-natal alcohol exposure has been confirmed. The clinic abides by the 2015 Revised Canadian Guidelines for standardized diagnosis and utilizes the expertise of pediatricians/physicians, psychologists, speech-language pathologists, occupational therapists and other professionals that are involved in the individual’s life. After multitudes of comprehensive assessments are completed, the MDT utilizes the guidelines to determine if a diagnosis of FASD is appropriate. Recommendations, including community referrals, are developed for each individual. Individuals that receive an FASD diagnosis are provided follow-up supports. Assessment and diagnostic services may or may not lead to a confirmed diagnosis of FASD. The process of diagnosis for FASD includes assessment in 10 different brain domains as outlined in the Diagnostic Guidelines. The diagnostic process also includes a collection of current and historical information regarding the individual.
Individuals aged 9+ residing in Southwestern Alberta
The assessment and diagnostic services are located in Lethbridge
There is no direct cost to individuals
Referral forms are available on-line and can be mailed to 1107 – 2 “A” Avenue North, Lethbridge, AB, T1H 0E6
Faxed to 403-327-5726
Telephone at 403-320-9119
Lynette Taal, Program Manager403-320-9119 or [email protected]