We know it can be overwhelming to navigate an unexpected autism diagnosis in your family.

At Apara we believe in supporting our families through all of the struggles or needs they may encounter after their child has been diagnosed with autism.

We have compiled a list of resources as some places to start navigating where to turn after an autism diagnosis.

1. Contact your insurance representative
   • While it may not be the first thing that comes to mind, your insurance policy will play a critical role in the resources you are able to access for your child. We would highly recommend that you seek out information from your insurance provider on what your policy covers and what your financial responsibility may look like. Here is a fantastic resource on how to navigate your insurance policy coverage.  Due to the long waitlist, you may also want to sign up for Medicaid Waivers in case you may want to access those services in the future
     • Texas Depart of Insurance
     • Autism Speaks – Regulated Health Benefit Plans
     • Texas Medicaid Waiver Programs
2. Research Therapy Providers
   • Most likely, a variety of different therapies may be recommended for your child. Even if you are hesitant to immediately begin therapy with your young child, the saying, “the earlier the better” is very true in regard to best possible outcomes for your child! Speak about these concerns with your therapy provider and develop a plan that you think will be the best fit for you and your child. See our previous blog post about quality indicators to look for in a therapy provider. Here are some other resource lists to help find the best fit therapy providers for your family
     • FEAT Houston
     • CareStarter
3. Ensure Therapy is Evidence-Based!
   • Lots of types of therapies are promoted as improving the lives of individuals with autism with extreme claims, but they are just that, claims. If something sounds too good to be true, it most likely is. Do your research and due diligence to ensure the claim is merited. Another tip: most therapies that are evidence-based will be covered by insurance, whereas those with extreme claims will not be covered and likely very expensive with limited progress occurring or potential harm to your child.
     • The National Professional Development Center on Autism Spectrum Disorder, Evidence Based Practices
     • The National Autism Center’s “Parent’s Guide to Evidence-Based Practice Autism”
4. Get involved in the community or find a support group
   • While handling an autism diagnosis can seem very isolating, there is a vast network of resources to get families involved. Remember, if your child has been diagnosed with autism, you are not in this alone! The resources in your area may span from support groups to respite care for your child and everything in between.
     • Meetup – Houston Autism Resources and Support
     • Family to Family Network – Parent Resources
     • Easter Seals Houston – Community Resources
     • The ARC of Greater Houston’s Resource Guide for Special Needs
5. Social Groups or Extracurricular Activities
   • We truly believe it is important for your child to be well rounded and find time to engage in an extracurricular activities or social opportunity to give them a chance to just be kids. Most of them will spend a considerable amount of time in school or therapy, and can benefit from having a “break” that can still create beneficial learning opportunities for them.
     • Social Motion Skills
     • Texas Children’s Hospital – Social Skills Classes
     • Hope For Three – Resources (See – Sports & Recreation)