Yucatán Opens First Autism Center in Southeast Mexico

Mérida, Yucatán — The state of Yucatán is set to make a significant advancement in inclusion and well-being with the opening of the State Center for Autism Spectrum Disorder (Cetea), the first facility of its kind in the entire southeast of Mexico.

The new public center, recently announced by Governor Joaquín Díaz Mena, will open its doors in December of this year. It is part of the state's commitment to offer specialized services that comprehensively address the needs of children and adolescents with this condition.

In its first stage, Cetea will provide free care to girls, boys, and adolescents between the ages of two and 12 through a multidisciplinary, individualized intervention model with structured family accompaniment. This approach is built on three fundamental pillars: timely detection, early intervention, and the active participation of mothers, fathers, and caregivers.

However, the new center is projected to progressively serve the entire population with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) in the state, recognizing that the needs of individuals with this condition do not end in childhood. The goal is to provide support throughout the life cycle, with strategies for educational, labor, and social inclusion.

Cetea will operate within the Center for Rehabilitation and Special Education (CREE), where specialized spaces have already been adapted and a team of professionals with specific training in ASD has been assembled. Among the services it will offer are speech therapy, sensory integration, occupational therapy, matrogymnastics, activities in the Multisensory Stimulation Center (CEMS), habituation areas, and family workshops aimed at strengthening the care environment. This comprehensive care seeks to improve the development and quality of life of people with autism.

With the commencement of Cetea's operations, the State Government, through the DIF Yucatán system, is consolidating a more equitable and humane care model, positioning Yucatán at the national forefront of public policies for inclusion and specialized health.

It is important to note that Cetea is not yet providing clinical care; however, interested families can go to the CREE to request information, guidance, and learn about the services that will be available starting in December.

For more information, individuals can visit the CREE from Monday to Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., or call the phones (999) 923 42 75 or (999) 924 36 16. The Cetea will be located at Calle 59 S/N x 86 y 90, Col. Francisco I. Madero, next to the Expenitenciaría Juárez.