Autism Support Network (ASN) is an online support network created in 2008 by Brian and Rosemary Field. The stated purpose of the group is to short-cut the uphill battle individuals and families affected by autism spectrum disorders undertake - the initial diagnosis, the day-to-day living and coping skills, relationship and therapeutic strategies and current information. The network is visited by over 200 countries on a monthly basis. The network disseminates autism news and information which is collected from autism experts, parents, those with autism and general news media. There are also indexed resources from around the world that list healthcare professionals such as occupational therapists and psychologists, as well as educational programs and community services; there are also multilingual resources in English and ten other languages. Autism Support Network also contains a social network area where there is open interaction and debate between members across the world affected in some way by autism spectrum disorders. Unlike organizations that view autism as a disease to be cured, Autism Support Network advocates a more moderate position that embraces the concept of neurodiversity. The organization advocates global awareness of autism, therapies and understanding through a variety of global partnerships in such areas of the world as South Africa, China, Israel and Cambodia.
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