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Guides for families
Plain-English answers with sources. General information, not medical advice.
How to get an autism diagnosis for your child
The usual steps from a first worry to a diagnostic evaluation, in plain English, with what to bring and what to ask.
Read the guidePaying for autism services: Medicaid, insurance and other help
A national overview of Medicaid, private insurance and free public services, with a Washington section and questions to ask your plan.
Read the guideWhat ABA therapy actually looks like
A plain description of applied behavior analysis: how it starts, what a session can look like, and how to judge whether it fits your child.
Read the guideWhat the letters after a provider's name mean
BCBA, RBT, CCC-SLP, OTR/L and more, explained in plain English, with where to check them.
Read the guideQuestions to ask before you choose a provider
A checklist for your first call: availability, cost, approach, and how the provider works with your family.
Read the guideLooking for providers near you?
The autism services directory covers all 50 states and DC.
Open the directory