We know that getting the right help for your autistic child isn’t simple. Our kids have many needs. Making things more complicated, all autistic kids are different, so there is no “one size fits all” solution.
We can direct parents to the right resources, answer questions based on our experiences, and — sometimes — provide a shoulder to cry on.
Here’s how we can help.
Welcome to Autism
We know firsthand the traumatic experiences of that first doctor’s autism evaluation. It’s not just you. Research shows that many parents experience clinical sides of PTSD after that initial diagnosis.
We’re here to help. We’ll talk you through new definitions and terms. We’ll talk about autism and ABA. We have our own tools to help you find a local ABA company — ABA Options.
Resource Consulting
Get a tailored list of services that is appropriate for your particular child, in a location that is close to your home. Need speech therapist or a school evaluation? We’ve got all that information.
Moving to another part of the state or across the country? We can provide a list of appropriate services in the new location.
School Connections and Coaching
Team Building: Get recommendations for tutors, learning consultants, and evaluators
IEP Review: Learn more about the key elements of your child’s IEP. Fine-tune goals to create measurable outcomes. Discuss ways to improve services.
Special Education Basics: Get parent-friendly definitions of education terminology. Discuss the role of the child study team. Learn how to be a better advocate for your child. Build positive relationships with your school district.
Transition Basics
Discuss and prepare for post 21 pathways, including Transition Programs, College Programs, Day Programs, and Vocational Programs.
Expert Referrals: Get referrals to medical experts who can write reports for SSI and DDD; lawyers for guardianship and trusts; and CPAs for financial matters.
SSI and DDD Applications: Get help completing the paperwork for key government services, which saves time and money.
College Pathways
The List: Work with the consultant to create a short list of appropriate traditional and alternative colleges. Perhaps the student might benefit from a transition program or a gap year. Learn tour strategies.
Referrals: Get recommendations to evaluators who might provide additional data to choose the right programs.
Placement Help: Work with the admissions teams for a seamless transition to college.
For a lot more information and resources for college, check out our website: The Autism College Connection.
Adult Services Connections – For the 21+ crowd
Connections to day programs, support coordination agencies, housing, employment, local social gatherings, and more.
McKenna Autism Consulting 