When your child receives an autism diagnosis, it can be life changing for the whole family. Whether this news comes as a surprise or you’ve been expecting it, just know you’re not alone. Approximately 1 in 44 children have been identified with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), according to CDC’s Autism and Developmental Disabilities Monitoring (ADDM) Network. You have a lot of people by your side to support you and your family and an entire field of study and care dedicated to providing the best outcomes for your child. Below are 5 steps to take following your child’s diagnosis to prepare you for what’s to come.
Gather Information
Knowledge is power. We recommend that your first step following an autism diagnosis should be to research and gather all the information you can about ASD. This often includes learning new ways to interact with your child and communicate with them as well as services that will benefit your child. Consult local professionals, research organizations, and online resources for valuable information.
Understand Your Insurance Coverage
Most states require health insurers to provide coverage for autism treatment, but each health insurance coverage is different. Make sure you talk with your health insurance provider about what services are covered. The Surpass Behavioral Health intake team can assist you with verifying this information.
Engage in Early Intervention
The earlier you engage in intervention, the better the long-term results. Contact your child’s school to inform them of the diagnosis and seek professional services such as occupational therapy, speech therapy, and Applied Behavioral Analysis (ABA) therapy, which is offered here at Surpass. A Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) will work with you and your child to develop a customized ABA treatment plan to strengthen behavioral, communication, and social skills.
Develop a Support System
You will face challenges and experience a lot of emotions throughout this process, but always remember you’re not alone. Seek support groups locally or online to connect to other families of children with autism, reach out to a therapist, and lean on your family and friends for patience and support.
Be Your Child’s Advocate
As a parent of a child with ASD, you will work with many different systems involved in their care – school, medical offices, therapy services, and insurance providers. Advocate for your child, always keep with their best interests front and center, and identify the best providers to support your child’s growth and development.
All families want the best for their children, and so do we. If your child has recently been diagnosed with ASD, we’re here to support you. At Surpass Behavioral Health, we offer high-quality autism services for children up to age 21 using Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy. We use this proven approach to develop a customized treatment plan that includes hands-on support, education, and training for each child and their family to help them reach their full potential. Our behavioral therapy services and clinics are built on a foundation of quality care and outstanding service. Visit our Services page to learn more about ways we can walk alongside you and your family on this journey.
