Support Groups
COSAC-sponsored Support Groups
The support groups are one of the greatest resources, providing so many opportunities to find solutions and answers from the real experts, the parents who have been there.
— Gary Weitzen, parent & COSAC member
COSAC sponsors thirteen parent and family support groups throughout New Jersey. Support groups provide many opportunities for parents to learn more about autism, to access information about services and treatments, and to offer and receive support. These support groups also offer valuable resources for families dealing with addiction, as substance abuse can be a significant challenge for individuals on the autism spectrum. Parents can find information about rehab options and treatment centers, such as those listed on https://www.methadone.org/clinics/illinois/, which can help address addiction issues in a comprehensive manner.
The support groups aim to create a safe and supportive environment where families can openly discuss their experiences and challenges related to autism and co-occurring conditions. Most groups meet once per month with the facilitation of a professional who is hired and supervised by COSAC. Some meetings feature guest speakers on various autism-related topics. All parents and family members of individuals with autism are welcome!
2006 MEETING SCHEDULE
Below is a list of COSAC’s support groups, their locations, meeting dates and times, and contact information. Be sure to check this page or call the Support Group Info line at (609) 883-8100 x28 for updates, as meeting dates and times are subject to change.
Bergen County ( Mt. Carmel Church, 1 Passaic Street, Ridge wood, 8:00-10:00 pm)
July 7, August 4, September 8
Facilitator: ~Claudia Moreno, Ph.D.
Parent Contact: ~Gary Lahm (201) 503-9476
Essex County (Congregation Beth Ahm, Grove Ave., Verona 7:00 – 9:00 pm)
Call for July and August location and dates, September 11
Facilitator and Contact: ~Michele Havens (973) 377-3020 evenings or e-mail [email protected]
Grandparents (Castle Senior Living @ Forsgate, 380 Forsgate Drive, Jamesburg, 7:30 – 9:00 pm)
July 20, August 17, September 21
Facilitator: ~Melissa DeWees, Psy.D.
Parent Contact: ~Shelly Mendias (732) 727-5398
Hudson County (Spanish, Iglesia San Augustin, 7:00 – 9:00 pm)
July 6, August 3, September 7
Facilitator: ~Claudia Moreno, Ph.D.
Parent Contact: ~Susana Albisu (201) 864-7262
Hudson County English Speaking (Jewish Community Center, Bayonne, 7:00 – 9:00 pm)
December 6, January 3, February 7, March 7, April 11, May 2, June 6, July 11, August 1, September 5
Facilitator: Tamara Bannon, L.M.S.W., BCBA
Parent Contact: COSAC (609) 883-8100, extension 25
Hunterdon (JW Tumbles, 186 Center St. Clinton, 7:30 – 9:30 pm)
July 10, August 14, September 11
Facilitator: ~Nancy Arvizzigno, M.A.
Parent Contact: ~Marybeth Ruchlin (908) 730-7002 days or (908) 387-1383 evenings
Mercer County (Mercer County Community College, 1200 Old Trenton Rd., West Windor, 7:00 – 9:00 pm)
July 21, Aug 18, Sept 15
Facilitator: ~Melissa DeWees, Psy.D.
Parent Contact: ~Kelly Lutz (609) 584-8825 evenings & weekends
Middlesex County (Raritan Valley Academy, Piscataway, 7:00 – 9:00 pm)
July 6, August 3, September 7
Facilitator: Melissa DeWees, Psy.D
Please call COSAC at 609 883 8100, ext. 28 for additional information
Monmouth County (Monmouth County Library, Manalapan, 7:00 pm – 8:45 pm)
July 27, August 24, September 28
Facilitator: Melissa DeWees, Psy.D.
Parent Contact: Cheryl and Michael Aquino (732) 252-5545
Morris/Sussex/Warren Counties (Hackettstown Hospital, 7:30 – 9:00 pm)
July 24, August 28, September 25
Facilitator: ~Cindy Chiariello, LSW
Parent Contact: ~Jodi Pimentel (973) 663-2505
Ocean County (Children’s Specialized Hospital, Toms River, 7:30 – 9:30 pm)
July 13, August 10, September 14
Facilitator: ~Melissa DeWees, Psy.D.
Parent Contact: ~Maria & Brandon Chornobroft (732) 363-6228
Parents of Adults(Child Health Institute, 89 French St., New Brunswick, 7:00 – 9:00 pm)
July 18, August 15, September 19
Facilitator: Linda Meyer, Ed.D., MPA
Parent Contact: ALice Hirsh (609) 324-2131
Salem County (Small Wonders Preschool, Pennsville, 7:00 – 9:30 pm)
July 12, August 9, September 13
Facilitator: ~Kimberly Rumaker, MSS, LSW
Parent Contact: ~Nancy Galey (856) 678-5741 day or (856) 678-4534 evenings
Union County (Children’s Specialized Hospital, Mountainside, 7:30 – 9:30 pm)
No July meeting, August 22, September 26
Facilitator: ~Nancy Arvizzigno, MA, LPC
Parent Contact: ~Deb Ritter (908) 233-8510, 1-5 pm only)