PRE-ADMISSION SCREENING

Anyone interested in applying is encouraged to call for an on-site visit prior to formally applying. All applicants must be at least 18 years old and have completed high school by the time of admission. An applicant must complete the application form and sign authorizations to release previous records directly to INDEPENDENCE CENTER.

Upon receipt of completed application forms and release forms, staff send for psychological, neurological, educational and vocational evaluations. These assessments are utilized for screening.

Criteria

INDEPENDENCE CENTER accepts clients without regard to sex, ethnic group, race, religion, or financial status. Clients must have diagnosed learning disabilities, within the generally accepted definition: A difficulty in processing information, visually or auditorially that is not due to mental retardation, emotional difficulties, or other physical handicaps. This includes: perceptual impairment, minimal brain dysfunction, attention deficit disorder, dyslexia, developmental aphasia, mild cerebral palsy, and seizure disorder.

The young adult must be motivated to learn to be independent, and cooperative with authority. Serious emotional difficulties are screened out.

The Interview

The applicant and his/her family are invited to come to the Center for an intake
interview with the Executive Director. They will receive information about the program, a tour, and will be asked questions about themselves (separately and as a family).

Based on reports on file and information gleaned during the interview, the applicant may be asked back for a 3-day orientation visit.

The ‘Orientation Weekend’

During the 3-day visit, the young adult sleeps over 2 nights and spends 3 days involved in normal program activities. These enable the staff to assess his/her skills and allow the young adult the opportunity to get a sense of the program.
Only those applicants considered appropriate and who want to participate are accepted into the program.

The Family Faces ‘Letting Go’

It is strongly recommended that family discussions about moving out take place all along the application process. Pointing out the normal experience of moving out, as can be demonstrated by other siblings or neighbors who have made the transition to college, work, marriage, etc., can be helpful. Visiting the facility can be helpful to all involved.

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