The Government of Antigua and Barbuda has approved plans to establish a specialised Cognitive Behavioral Centre aimed at significantly improving support services for persons living with autism and other neurodivergent disorders.
Health Minister Michael Joseph presented the initiative at Wednesday's Cabinet meeting, where officials described it as a major healthcare development focused on early intervention, diagnosis, treatment, and family support.
Cabinet was told that many parents and caregivers continue to face considerable emotional and financial burdens due to the limited availability of specialised services on island. The new centre will address that gap by offering occupational therapy, speech pathology, neurological psychology, counselling, and developmental support services under one roof.
Recruitment for trained specialists is already underway. The facility will require an occupational therapist, speech pathologist, and neurological psychologist, among other staff.
The centre is designed to serve both children and adults living with neurodevelopmental disorders, while also equipping families with the tools to better navigate the challenges associated with autism spectrum disorder.
Cabinet described the initiative as a critical step toward building a more inclusive healthcare system and improving the quality of life for vulnerable families throughout Antigua and Barbuda.
