Balance Autism
Scott Atwood, Ph.D. has a diverse work experience that spans over several decades. Scott currently holds the position of Vice President of Adult Services at Balance Autism, a role they have been in since October 2014. Prior to that, Dr. Atwood owned Synergy Consulting, a firm dedicated to providing evidence-based consulting services aimed at achieving organizational results. Scott started Synergy Consulting in May 2013 and continues to be involved with the company.
Dr. Atwood has also held teaching positions at Drake University and Grand View College. Scott served as an Adjunct Leadership Instructor at Drake University, and as an Adjunct Psychology Instructor at Grand View College. Their experiences in teaching contribute to their expertise in leadership and psychology.
In addition to their consulting and teaching roles, Dr. Atwood has a long history of working in the field of disabilities. Scott worked at ChildServe for a significant period, where they held various positions including Staff Resource Manager/Organizational Effectiveness Analyst, Service Manager, and Home Supervisor/QMRP. Scott also supervised a team at Opportunities Unlimited and worked as a Behavior Specialist at Mid Step Services.
Overall, Dr. Scott Atwood's work experience demonstrates their extensive knowledge and experience in consulting, leadership, psychology, and the disabilities field.
Scott Atwood, Ph.D. completed their education at various institutions and attained a diverse range of degrees. Scott pursued a Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Psychology from Morningside University from 1987 to 1991. Further building their expertise, Scott obtained two Master of Science (M.S.) degrees in the field of psychology. The first M.S. was completed in Industrial-Organizational Psychology from Capella University, spanning from 2006 to 2008. Simultaneously, they pursued their second M.S. degree in Psychology at Walden University, which they earned in 2007. Scott's educational journey culminated at Capella University, where they achieved their Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Industrial-Organizational Psychology from 2009 to 2012.
Balance Autism
In 1991, a group of parents and professionals in Iowa came together to create new living and working opportunities for adults with autism. They researched other programs around the country and talked with experts in the field of autism. From these efforts Balance Autism took root. When founded as a non-profit 501(c)3 organization in 1994 it was named The Homestead because its earliest program focused on a working farm where adults with autism could live and work, raising fruits and vegetables. Since that beginning 25 years ago, Balance Autism has evolved. Our capabilities have broadened. Our staff has increased. We now serve persons of all ages. As the field of autism research has evolved, we’ve brought its most effective solutions to the persons and families we serve. Today, Balance Autism offers services to more than 300 children and 150 adults annually; employs 400 highly trained and devoted staff members and has an operating budget of $21 million. And yet, as much as we’ve grown, our mission has remained rooted in our core value: to provide balance in the lives of those with autism. If you are interested in learning more about our services, if you are interested in joining our team and helping children and adults with autism learn and grow, check out www.BalanceAutism.org.