Training
In addition to a shortage of therapeutic settings that focus explicitly on providing treatment for adults with autism aged 21+ who have dangerous, challenging behavior, there are no formal training pathways to educate practitioners from a range of disciplines (e.g., psychology, medicine, social work) in how to effectively work with this underserved population.

Along with providing direct care, the IOC is designed to be a training site for Rutgers University students at all levels and disciplines. Over time, it is out hope that this approach will result in many more well-trained, well-prepared professionals working in a variety of settings to meet the needs of people on the spectrum with severe and complex challenging behavior.

The IOC strives to provide excellence in training not only for IOC staff and Rutgers students, but for clinicians and practitioners in the community as well. Trainings can be clinic-based (conducted at RCAAS) or community-based.

Research
The RCAAS and IOC exist to advance knowledge and understanding surrounding issues faced by adults with autism. Towards this end, IOC faculty and staff have a strong commitment to conducting and disseminating groundbreaking research related to the identification of evidence-based practices for helping adults on the spectrum realize their goals and full potential.