Intellectual Disability and Autism Service

It was an obvious need that led to a courageous decision in the early 1950s, when Saint Joseph’s opened its residence to serve children who were diagnosed with Intellectual Disability. Over the next several decades, the program grew in both scope and reputation. Deeply rooted in the Catholic tradition that all life is sacred, these services celebrate the beauty and individuality of each person served, while challenging his or her potential.

Early Intervention Services

Infancy and early childhood are critical times in human development. When a child is born prematurely or is exhibiting a developmental delay, the type of care and stimulation can be crucial.

Special-needs instructors and/or therapists provide this service to infants and young children in their own home or alternative setting, serving children living in Wayne, Lackawanna, and Susquehanna counties.

An independent, comprehensive evaluation is required to assess a child’s eligibility. Parents are encouraged to select Saint Joseph’s Center to provide high quality, experienced Early Intervention services once the independent assessment is completed.

Residential Services

Saint Joseph’s Center is deeply committed to providing the highest quality services to those who have been entrusted to our care. Collaborative, interdisciplinary teams support 24 hour residential programming in various settings.

Intermediate Care Facilities

Intermediate Care Facility (ICF/ID), licensed by the PA Department of Health (DOH)provides residential services to individuals diagnosed with Intellectual Disability/Autism with medically complex conditions.

Direct Support Professionals (DSPs), nurses, medical staff, program specialists, and therapists all work as a team to ensure that everyone receives specialized care in all aspects of their lives.  Individualized active treatment is focused on skill development, community involvement, personal growth and well-being.

Community Living Arrangements

Community Living Arrangements (CLAs), licensed by the PA Department of Human Service (DHS) Office of Developmental Programs (ODP) provides residential services throughout Lackawanna County to individuals diagnosed with Intellectual Disability/Autism. Individuals experience compassionate care, person-centered programming, and a sense of belonging in their community.

With a deeply rewarding and fulfilled life as the ultimate goal, each resident is encouraged to share their talents and individuality, helping to shape the home’s vibrancy and everyday life. The CLA Program continuously makes efforts to cultivate new interests and hobbies as the residents become more involved in their neighborhoods and the surrounding community.

To be eligible for this service, individuals and their families must contact their county office of developmental service.  

Community Support Services

Community Support Services (CSS), overseen by the PA Department of Human Services (DHS) Office of Developmental Programs (ODP), offers resources to children and adults diagnosed with Intellectual Disability/Autism living at home who benefit from the support of qualified, caring staff. Services are customized to the needs of the individual and their family. 

Supported Independent Living

Supported Independent Living (SIL) offers regularly scheduled assistance and 24-hour on-call emergency support to individuals with Intellectual Disabilities/Autism who choose to live independently.

Companion Services

Companion Services provide individuals who require assistance with preferred activities in their community or home.

In-Home and Community Support Services

In-Home and Community Support Services provides individuals with assistance to achieve individualized goals focused on skill development, community involvement, personal growth and well-being.

Respite Services

Respite Services provide staff support to families to care for individuals with intellectual disability/autism.  The duration of respite services varies based on the needs of the family. The services can be provided in the home of the individual who is receiving services, in the community, or in the home of the staff provider.

Lifesharing for Children with Medically Complex Conditions

Lifesharing for Children with Medically Complex Conditions (MCC) is designed to support individuals who require additional supports and services to live in the community with their families.

To be eligible for these services, individuals and their families must contact their county office of developmental services.

Adult Day Services

Adult Day Services, overseen by the PA Department of Human Services (DHS) Office of Developmental Programs (ODP), offers individuals with an Intellectual Disability/Autism the opportunity to continue the learning process and provides community participation supports. Adult Day Services is designed to achieve individualized goals focused on skill development, community involvement, personal growth and well-being.

Adult Day Services are available in Dunmore and Wilkes-Barre.

To be eligible for these services, individuals and their families must contact their county office of developmental services.