The Autism Program Logokids
The Autism Program of Illinois at a Glance

The Autism Program of Illinois (TAP) is a systems initiative, a network of resources for Autism Spectrum Disorders in the State of Illinois. TAP provides the strategy and framework for the State of Illinois to address the complex issues involved in diagnosis, treatment and research for the thousands of children in Illinois with ASDs.

Public Act 93-0395 created TAP and the establishment of three Regional Training and Service Centers and expanded in FY2006 to include two Affiliate Centers. In FY2008, TAP convened a statewide network of more than 27 agencies and universities devoted to meeting the needs of children with autism and their families forming The Autism Program Service Network.

Over the years, The Autism Program of Illinois has developed an infrastructure to train, support, and coordinate the linkage of an informed provider network to help Illinois families.


The Autism Program of Illinois is a systems development initiative designed to create and enhance community networks that promote best practice in the diagnosis, treatment and education of children with ASD. Program initiatives include:

Map of Center LocationsDidactic Training

  • Assessment
  • Communication and social interaction
  • Autism awareness
  • Parent training
  • Treatment techniques
  • Physician education
  • Educational planning

Experience-based Training

  • Demonstration classrooms
  • Diagnostic evaluations
  • Discrete trial training
  • Classroom consultation
  • Model treatment programs
  • Parent training model

Community Service and Support

  • Parent support groups
  • Parent and professional advisory councils
  • Support of university and medical school curricula in ASD

Research and Evaluation

  • Research Advisory Board
  • Needs Assessment
  • Research at all three sites and in collaboration with university programs in Illinois, North Carolina and Tennessee

The Autism Program, Your Illinois Resource
Phone: (217) 525-8332
Georgia Winson, M.S., LCPC, Director of Operations
928 South Spring Street
Springfield, IL 62704