A guide for parents navigating a new diagnosis
Texas Government Support GuideLearning that your child has Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) can be overwhelming. Remember that an autism diagnosis doesn't change who your child is—it helps you understand how they experience the world and provides a pathway to support their unique needs.
Any diagnosis can be life-changing for families, and allowing yourself to absorb and understand your child’s diagnosis and process emotions that come is vital to being able to support them.
Many providers will give you information about your child’s new diagnosis with handouts, websites, and verbal information. Dive into the information you’re given, and never hesitate to ask for more. Consider searching for online support groups and in person support in your community.
It takes a village to raise any child, and that is no less true for a child with a disability. Whether it’s friends, family, educators, or a medical team, you have people that are on your side and ready to help you and your child however they best can.
As a family, it’s important to talk about the pro’s and con’s of the suggested interventions, and consider as applicable to your individual child. Never hesitate to question a suggestion, ask a question about a method, and do your own research about what you’re being instructed to do for your child.
Prescribed Pediatric Extended Care Centers (PPECC’s) provide nursing care for children with complex and severe medical needs.
Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy is available for children with autism to help improve communication, learning, and adaptive skills.
Physical therapy for developmental and neurological disabilities helps children improve mobility, strength, and coordination.
Occupational therapy for developmental and neurological disabilities focuses on daily living skills, fine motor skills, and sensory processing.
Speech therapy for developmental and neurological disabilities supports communication, language, and feeding skills.
All children with disabilities have the right to an appropriate education that meets their unique needs.
Children with certain disabilities qualify for special education services. An Individualized Education Program (IEP) or 504 Plan outlines the specific supports and accommodations your child needs to succeed in school, and you can request an evaluation through the public school system.
Home health nursing qualifications vary between insurance provider, and it is best to speak with who is in charge of your healthcare benefits to verify you have coverage for your child’s specific needs.
Each school district in Texas has the legal ability to determine if they will allow an outside nurse to come to campus with your child; they otherwise are legally required to provide one if your child medically requires one. Advocacy groups are a good resource for providing help for those specific needs.
No, at least not until a child is 18. Respite care may be available, but usually that is part of a Medicaid waiver program.
Each diagnosis and child is different; therefore a case manager or social worker for your doctor’s office, a advocacy organization, or even Health and Human Services can speak to you regarding Medicaid waivers, waitlists, and other options for state-sponsored help.
Navigating government support systems can be overwhelming. This guide will help you access the resources available for your child with autism in Austin, Texas.
Texas Medicaid can unlock a wide range of services, including Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy, OT, PT, speech therapy, and in-home supports.
This program provides 180+ hours of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy yearly — paid for by the state.
This is free support from your local school, including special education teachers, therapists, and behavioral aides.
If eligible, your child will get an Individualized Education Program (IEP) that includes:
Waivers can cover respite care, home modifications, and in-home support.
SSI is a federal monthly cash benefit — over $900/month — for disabled children in low-income households.
These nonprofits will help you file paperwork, advocate, and unlock services for free.
Keep a folder or digital file for:
| Resource | Benefit | How to Access |
|---|---|---|
| Medicaid | Health coverage + Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA)/therapy | YourTexasBenefits.com |
| Children's Autism Program | 180+ hours Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA)/year | Call 2-1-1 |
| Individualized Education Program (IEP) through Austin Independent School District (AISD) | School-based therapy & supports | Request evaluation at school |
| Waivers | In-home care, respite, life support | 1-877-438-5658 |
| SSI | Monthly income for your child | SSA.gov |
| Local Nonprofits | Free advocacy & help | VELA, Easter Seals, TxP2P |
We're here to support you and your child on this journey. Our foundation offers various programs and resources specifically designed for families navigating autism.
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