UAB Center Helps Quality of Life for Individuals with Developmental Disabilities

By Brianna Hoge | UAB News The new University of Alabama at Birmingham Center for Excellence in Developmental Disabilities integrates clinical service, training and research to support individuals and families impacted by developmental disabilities in Alabama and beyond. The CEDD strives to increase knowledge regarding developmental disabilities and to translate that knowledge into exemplary programs providing service and education. The programs within the CEDD are sources of information, support, training, technical assistance, research and advocacy related to developmental disabilities. Priorities and goals are set in collaboration with self-advocate, family and community partners. “Our mission can be accomplished only through active partnerships with other key stakeholders throughout the state of Alabama,” said Sarah O’Kelley, Ph.D., director of the CEDD and associate professor in the UAB College of Arts and Sciences‘ Department of Psychology. “We hope that, through the programs and activities at the CEDD, we can help individuals and families not only locally, but also in our state and region.” The CEDD houses and supports more than 30 clinics, special projects, and training and research programs already established at UAB. Faculty, staff and trainees represent 12 different clinical and non-clinical disciplines and are jointly supported by the UAB Civitan-Sparks Clinics. Sarah...