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< Back Patricia "Patty" Vela, MA Chief Development & Outreach Officer Patricia "Patty" Vela holds a Bachelors degree in Psychology from Southwestern University and a Masters degree in School Psychology from Trinity University. After 14 years of practicing as a Licensed Specialist in School Psychology for NISD, Ms. Vela entered her second career, non-profit development and fundraising. Prior to ACN, Ms. Vela worked for a large non-profit in San Antonio. However, she always missed working alongside children with disabilities and their caregivers which made her excited when this opportunity became available. She joined the ACN team in March, 2017. Ms. Vela is a daughter, mother, friend, bibliophile, frustrated artist, lover of music, and enjoys Gilmore Girls and HGTV a little too much! She has also developed a passion for retaionally-based or conscious parenting as she has spent more time at ACN and can often be found down internet rabbit holes of leaders in this field. Patty is a proud aunt to 2 neurodivergent children. pattyv@acn-sa.org (210) 435-1000 ext. 5002

< Back ADVOCACY About Advocacy Services Advocacy plays a crucial role in advancing the rights and needs of individuals with autism and their families. Our resource library offers information on community-based and social advocacy, including grassroots organizing, public policy initiatives, and community outreach. We also provide resources on educational advocacy, including strategies for navigating the special education system, securing appropriate educational services, and collaborating effectively with school districts. COMMUNITY BASED & SOCIAL ADVOCACY Disability Rights Texas Statewide Intake 512.454.4816 Web: www.disabilityrightstexas.org 222 W. Braker Ln., Austin, TX 78758 South Texas Regional Office 210.737.0499 6800 Park Ten Blvd., Ste. 208-N, San Antonio TX 78213 Intake hours are from 8AM -5 PM. Telephone number 1.800.252.9108 (Intake Specialist). Advocates for people with disabilities to secure their human, legal, and service rights, and assists them in advocating for themselves for these same rights. Strives to establish and expand rights and services for people with disabilities, to inform all individuals of the rights of people with disabilities, and to inform and refer individuals to programs and services. Texas Council on Developmental Disabilities 512.437.5432 Web: http://www.tcdd.texas.gov/about/governance/ E-Mail: tcdd@tcdd.texas.gov 6201 E. Oltorf, Suite 600, Austin, TX 78741-7509 T he DD Act provides for a Council to be appointed by the Governor of each state to serve as the governing board for the state’s developmental disabilities council. EDUCATIONAL ADVOCACY 101Advocacy 210.722.9974 Web: www.101advocacy.com Sylvia Farber: sfarber@101advocacy.com 101 Advocacy helps families navigate through the special education or 504 processes by educating families on special education/504 laws and their rights, collaborating with parents to get effective educational programs and services from school districts, reviewing the IEP to ensure it is written to meet individual student needs, and assisting at ARD/504 meetings. 101 Advocacy offers bi-lingual advocacy. Brighton Center - Special Education Support Services 210.826.4492 Web: www.brightonsa.org 14207 Higgins,SA TX 78217 265 E. Lullwood, SA TX 78212 SESS is a one-time 3-hour class that includes a meal, childcare, and a SESS Graduation Certificate with 3hr Credits. These are small group clinics designed to address concerns and questions about your child’s ARD/IEP. Please bring a copy of your child’s most current ARD/IEP document. Sessions held at various times and locations throughout San Antonio. Please call for more information. Eagles Flight Advocacy and Outreach 210.960.6635 Web: https://www.eaglesflightsa.com/ 26520 Fire Dance, Boerne, TX 78006 E-Mail: info@eaglesflightsa.com Advocacy provided for Special Education needs. Contact Pam Allen. Girasol Margain 210.826.4492 Web: www.BrightonSA.org Brighton Center, 265 E. Lullwood, SA, TX 78212 E-Mail: gmargain@brightonsa.org Special Education Advocate and Trainer Jennifer Fitzhugh 210.415.6098 E-Mail: jenniferlayne@sbcglobal.net Advocacy/Consulting-Advocacy for families who need ARD support; also, provide trainings for parents and professionals. Juan Hernandez 210.826.4492 Web: www.BrightonSA.org 265 E. Lullwood, SA TX 78212 E-Mail: jhernandez@brightonsa.org Special Education Advocate and Trainer Karla Calla 210.826.4492 Web: www.BrightonSA.org 265 E. Lullwood, SA TX 78212 E-Mail: kcalla@brightonsa.org Special Education Advocate and Trainer Lorene Dill 210.367.5710 Web: www.dillardadvocacy.com E-Mail: Lorene@DillardAdvocacy.com 6058 Crab Orchard, SA TX 78240 Provides consulting and training as well as advocacy services in all areas of special education. Able to attend ARD meetings with parents to help advocate for your Child’s rights; provides parents with information and training to increase their advocacy skills to make informed decisions regarding their child’s education. Partners Resource Network – Team Project – Region 20 409.898.4684 Web: www.partnerstx.org . 1090 Longfellow Dr, Beaumont, TX 77706 SA Independent Living Services (SAILS) 210.281.1878 Web: www.sailstx.org 1028 S. Alamo, SA TX 78210 SAILS provide information and assistance to people of all ages with disabilities and their families to access support systems and promote changes that result in full access to the community. SAILS can also provide information and education on the Americans with Disabilities Act and information on disability rights. Services are available to residents in 28 counties. You may call them for assistance Monday - Friday 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM and you do not have to have an actual doctor diagnoses to be assisted. The Legal Framework 432.561.4332 Web: framework.esc18.net/ Region 18 providing Statewide Leadership for the Legal Framework for the Child- Centered Process in Texas; In collaboration with the Division of IDEA Coordination at the Texas Education Agency; The resource page provides access to documents which are used in the Special Education Process. Special Education Support Services (SESS) 210.826.4492 Web: www.brightonsa.org 14207 Higgins, SA, TX78217 SESS is a one-time 3-hour class that includes a meal, childcare, and a SESS Graduation Certificate with 3hr Credits. These are small group clinics designed to address concerns and questions about your child’s ARD/IEP. Please bring a copy of your child’s most current ARD/IEP document. Sessions held at various times and locations throughout San Antonio. Please call for more information. Previous Next

< Back PARENT EDUCATION About Parent Education Services Our parent education resources provide information and support for parents of children with autism. These resources can help parents better understand their child's needs, access necessary resources, and support their child's growth and development. Ask about our caregiver empowerment programs! PARENT EDUCATION Any Baby Can of San Antonio 210.227.0170 Web: https://www.anybabycansa.org/enrollment/ 217 Howard, SA TX 78212 Contact: Autism Services Director The parent training course is divided into six group sessions with specific goals and learning objectives. You will also be assigned a Client Specialist that will assess your needs for additional supports, help coordinate your path through our services, and complete one-on-one in-home follow up support, as needed. Our goal is to ensure that your needs are met and that your child is successful. Autism Community Network 210.435.1000 Web: https://www.acn-sa.org/ 4242 Woodcock Dr. Ste. 101, SA TX 78228 ACN provides diagnostic evaluations for children as well as parent and professional education and training. In addition, ACN provides resources to families through its website, social media outlets and outreach events. ACNs goal is to help children with autism maximize their potential by working to expand autism awareness, improve early diagnosis and better connect families to the care and support available in San Antonio. For information on workshops, trainings or resources please call. AVANCE - San Antonio 210.220.1788 Web: www.avancesa.org 903 Billy Mitchell Blvd., Ste. 100, SA TX 78226 Meaning "advance" or “progress,” AVANCE serves as a trusted guide to assist under-resourced families of young children in overcoming isolation and lack of opportunity. Using our unique two generation education and relationship-building methodology, we help family members become the best parents, employees, and citizens they can be. Brighton Center 210.826.4492 Web: www.brightonsa.org 14207 Higgins Rd., SA TX 78217 Throughout San Antonio and Bexar County, Brighton Center provides developmental and educational services to children of ALL abilities. With a holistic, family-centered approach, we offer enrichment and development through our education programs. Previous Next

< Back CHILDCARE About Childcare Services Our childcare resources provide information on finding high-quality childcare options for individuals with autism. These resources can help families find providers who are trained and equipped to support children with autism and provide them with the care they need. CHILDCARE PROVIDERS Brightstar Kid Care 210.377.3355 Web: www.brightstarcare.com/san-antonio-north-central-/child-care/ 7410 Blanco RD, Ste. 200, SA TX 78216 We offer flexible sick-day childcare and sitter services and pediatric home care; including a wide range of home care services for children with special needs. Our clinical caregivers are experts in well-baby and newborn care. Our in-hospital companions give family caregivers a respite break and peace of mind that their child is being looked after when in the hospital. Brighton Center 210.826.4492 Web: www.brightonsa.org 14207 Higgins RD, SA TX 78217 Bright Beginnings Child Care Center: NAEYC Accredited Center, curriculum is designed to meet the needs of each child based on his/her developmental level; ages 6 weeks to 5 years. Family Endeavors 210.208.5700 Web: www.familyendeavors.org 535 Bandera RD, SA TX 78228 This agency provides a myriad of programs including Fairweather Programs; Supportive housing; job training; employment; case management; and supportive services provided to individuals and mothers with disabilities and their children. Children & Youth Services; Licensed after school programs; childcare & learning centers; and summer day camps. Joy Learning Center - Child Care 210.736.2552 250 Sherwood Dr, SA TX 78201 JLC provides quality childcare for children diagnosed with Autism between the ages of 18 mos. - 12 yrs. Specialized in early learning intervention and individualized instruction for children with language and learning disabilities. Low Page 39 staff to child ratio and staff holds degrees in occupational and speech therapy; psychology and ABA. Mi CASA 210.561.7660 Web: www.micasachildcenter.com 8601 Cinnamon Creek, SA TX 78240 A day program for school age students, from 6:30 a.m. till 6:30 p.m. Respite Care of San Antonio – Daycare 210.737.1212 Web: www.respitecaresa.org Christ Episcopal Church, 605 Belknap Pl., SA, TX 78212 Families may bring their children (6 wks. To 5 yrs.) with special needs and complex medical conditions, Monday - Friday from 7:30pm – 4pm (extended care 4pm -6pm); non-disabled siblings (up to the age of 5) welcome. Study Hall Learning Center 210.615.0565 Web: www.studyhalldaycare.com Multiple Locations Summit Christian Center 210.402.0565 Web: www.summitsa.com/ministries 2575 Marshall RD, SA TX 78259 Summit offers many different programs dependent upon the age of your child. They offer a nursery for ages 2 months to 3 years; a King’s Court - ages 4 to 1st grade; Elevate - grades 2nd through 5th; Emerge - grades 6th through 8th; The X - grades 9th through 12th and other young adults programs. They also offer divorce care for children of divorced parents; which includes a program to help kids deal with the hurt caused by the separation; provides special needs Sunday school classes with a trained staff. Also offers Parents and Challenges Support Group and field trips for children ages 2 to 18. CHILDCARE REFERRAL & RESOURCES City of S.A. - Head Start 210.206.5500 Web: saheadstart.org 1227 Brady Blvd, SA, TX 78207 Family Service Association - Smart Start 210.299.2400 Web: www.family-service.org E-Mail: support@family-service.org 702 San Pedro, SA, TX 78212 Provides consultants who assist with connections to local child care resources and community agencies, as well as national agencies and information; SMART START Connections is a network member of the National and Texas Association of Child Care Resource and Referral Association (NACCRRA and TACCRRA) and the national Child Care Aware system. Basic services are no charge. Online Child Care Search Web Only Web: https://www.dfps.state.tx.us/Child_Care/Search_Texas_Child_Care/ Spectrum Sitters, LLC 512.777.2676 Web: www.Spectrum-Sitters.com E-Mail: contact@spectrum-sitters.com Serving Central Texas; Texas Association of Child Care Resource Specialized Sitters for Special needs children. Provide both on call sitters, as well as long term sitter referrals. Texas Association of Child Care Resource and Referral Agencies 210.299.2424 Web: www.taccrra.net 702 San Pedro Ave., SA TX 78212 Assists in locating a network of childcare resource and referral agencies serving communities throughout Texas; includes help for childcare for children with special needs. Texas Department of Family & Protective Services 210.333.2004 Web: www.txchildcaresearch.org Provides an online search of all Texas licensed facilities including center-based childcare and home-based childcare. Database is searchable by location and programs provided, such as special needs care, acceptance of childcare subsidies and transportation. Inspection reports of facilities available online. Previous Next

< Back TRANSPORTATION About Transportation Services Transportation can be a significant challenge for individuals with autism and their families. Our resource library provides information on transportation options, including accessible transportation services, school transportation, and public transportation resources. TRANSPORTATION Alamo Regional Transit (ART) 1.866.889.7433 AACOG - Transportation for Seniors 60+. 8700 Tesoro Dr., Ste. 700, SA TX 78217 Alamo Service Connection (Medical Transportation) 210.477.3275 For Medical or dental appointments. Medicaid or CSHCN eligibility required. Area Agencies on Aging Directory https://apps.hhs.texas.gov/contact/aaa.cfm Medicaid Routine Medical Transportation Program 877.633.8747 Web: Click Here 1100 W. 49th St, Austin, TX 78756 There are here to provide Non-Emergency rides if you call and notify them at least 2 working days in advance; but as far as 30 days out; if you are out of town at least 5 days out of town as long as you are receiving Medicaid Benefits. Their ways of transport include; bus; van; taxi; rail for in town and bus; van; rail or airline for out of town. If a child 14 years old or younger they must be accompanied by an adult; 15 - 17 can ride alone if parent fills out consent form; also teen parents may ride alone with their child; without an adult. They are also able to accommodate those with disabilities, such as wheelchair bound. For more information, you may vista their website or call into the office. Monday - Friday 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM to schedule a ride; but transportation 5:30 AM to 7:00 PM Monday - Saturday. They also have a reimbursement plan for gas; lodging and food; for more detailed information, please contact the office. Methodist Healthcare Health Bus 210.647.7433 Web: www.sahealth.com/about/community/health-bus.dot Offers free transportation to Metropolitan Methodist Hospital and any of its facilities, as well as to doctors on the medical staff at Metropolitan Methodist Hospital. Serves select zip codes; wheelchair accessible; call 48 hours in advance to reserve. Patient Air Transport Helpline 1.800.296.1217 Web: www.patienttravel.org Makes referrals and provides assistance for patients who must travel long distances for evaluation, diagnosis, or treatment, and who need financial assistance to do so. VIA Transportation Services 210.362.2140 Web: https://www.viainfo.net/viatrans-paratransit/ 800 W. Myrtle, SA TX 78212 Complimentary para-transit provided to individuals who have disabilities that prevent them from using fixed route bus service; provided during the same hours of the day, same days per week and within three- quarters of a mile of a fixed bus route. Applications must be verified by the applicant’s physician and eligibility is then determined. Well’s Waldo Wheels 210.647.7433 Web: https://sahealth.com/patients-visitors/methodist-healthcare-health-bus.dot Provides services for pregnant women who go to Methodist facilities for well-checks and to assist parents in getting their children to medical appointments; Spanish-speaking drivers are available Previous Next

Therapeutic Offerings Your neurodiverse child is beautiful, and YOU are the EXPERT in your child! Therapies offered at ACN empower families by helping to nurture understanding and connection, building upon the existing strengths you ALL bring to the table. From our first meeting with your family, our focus is on identifying and amplifying strengths and supporting you and your child in building the strongest connection and communication possible. We help you understand your child’s unique profile, and we serve as your partners in navigating a new diagnosis and a new way of relating to each other and the world around you. Sensory Int 02 DIRFloortime® DIRFloortime® is a play and relationship-building therapy for autistic and neurodivergent children. It is a comprehensive foundational model that utilizes affect-based interactions and experiences tailored to individual needs to promote global child development. The DIR® model, developed by Drs. Stanley Greenspan and Serena Wieder, identifies relationships as the pivotal force that nurtures and optimizes development. Further, it was the first to propose a relationship-based model of comprehensive intervention for autism spectrum and sensory processing disorders focusing on relating and communicating. The latest research shows many benefits to DIRFloortime® therapy. At ACN, DIRFloortime® therapy is offered by an expert-level certified clinician working in tandem with parents and other primary caregivers. The DIRFloortime® program consists of 12-18 weeks of weekly or biweekly interventions, one hour in length, that can be completed in-person or via telehealth. Goals for the child and caregiver will be collaboratively established following an in-depth assessment. Families can expect to learn the following: •How to take an active role in helping their children relate and communicate with others •How to support the development of sensory integration and social-emotional connectedness within the brain •To identify the unique challenges and strengths of their children as it relates to their abilities to process sensory information, stay regulated and attentive more of the time and to learn from the social world around them •How to fortify their relationships with their children and facilitate their childrens’ intention and engagement to build the foundation for maximal social, emotional, sensory, motor, language and cognitive development. Contact carrie@acn-sa.org for more information. 01 Pediatric Autism Communication Therapy (PACT) Search View Research Pediatric Autism Communication Therapy (PACT) is a well-validated intervention supporting connection, celebrating difference, and enhancing communication. It has demonstrated effectiveness and long-term evidence of significantly enhanced child social communication outcomes and can radically improve quality of life for autistic children in relationship with their parents. In a 12 to 18-session staged intervention, the therapist uses specific video feedback techniques to help parents recognize, respond to, and enhance their child’s social communication. PACT is delivered via telehealth in the child’s natural home environment, which is one of the most effective ways of ensuring enduring development and generalization in social communication skills. Within each 60–90-minute session, the therapist reviews short video clips of the adult and child interacting or playing together. This video is jointly reviewed with the adult, using selected moments to identify and discuss the best individual communication strategies for the child. Between sessions, parents are asked to practice their PACT strategies with the child for around 30 minutes a day. Other interventions can be continued in parallel. PACT is the only intervention showing robust evidence of sustained enhanced child social communication skills, communication initiation, language, and engagement six years after early intervention, evidence which informs a new Autism Care Pathway. PACT is proven to improve child communication from first identification through a care pathway, to post-diagnostic intervention and school support, and is suitable for autistic children up to 11 years of age. The efficiency of PACT is in working with familiar adults in the child’s daily life to support the alternative ways autistic children learn, building stronger social communication skills, and simultaneously helping parents feel empowered with increased self-efficacy, well-being, and family resilience. PACT draws on individual positive attributes, strengthening relationships in building the basis for better understanding and accommodating of individual differences. Autism Community Network houses the largest concentration of PACT Certified trainers in the United States, and we are delighted to bring such an innovative, effective, and neurodiversity-affirming intervention to our families. PACT is made possible by generous funding from Betty Stieren Kelso, Autism Speaks, Texas Pediatric Society, and St. Luke's Lutheran Healthcare Ministries. Contact carrie@acn-sa.org for more information. 03 Making "Sense" of Autism Program Sensory Processing is something that all humans do as a normal function of our brains and nervous systems. It is the way we take in sights, sounds, tastes, smells, touch, body position, and the status of our internal bodily organs through our senses. Typical sensory processing happens without our even noticing, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year. It supports a calm, organized, regulated state of being for the individual. Sometimes, it warns us of stimuli that are potentially harmful and other times, it alerts us when we are feeling particularly sluggish or too tired to function. It is a normal function of a typically developing brain and nervous system. Sensory Processing also underlies many aspects of development in all areas: communication, motor skills, cognition, and social-emotional skills. Confidence, coordination, empathy, mindfulness, and our very physical health are all tied to a finely tuned, well-functioning sensory processing system. In the 1960’s an Occupational Therapist and researcher, A. Jean Ayres, PhD., developed a theory outlining what she termed Sensory Integration Dysfunction (now known as Sensory Processing Disorder). This is when sensory signals from one’s own body and/or from the environment are not processed in an orderly manner. Dr. Ayres likened this phenomenon to a “traffic jam” in the brain and nervous system. The signals still get through, but they cause a person’s brain to react too much, not enough, or in such a way that the person seeks extra stimulation in order to register the presence of sensory input. This is evident in a person’s behavior. For example, a person who reacts too much to sensory input may cover their ears with typical environmental sounds, react like the simplest light touch is painful, or gag on certain textures of food. Another person who does not react enough to sensory stimuli may ignore a sound the first few times it is made, be able to tolerate copious amounts of pain before they perceive that something is hurting them, or be able to spin in place much more than the average person without becoming dizzy. Lastly, a sensory seeker may be in constant motion, crashing their bodies against surfaces and other people, putting lots of inedible things in their mouths, smelling non-food items, staring into bright lights, enjoying making loud noises with their own voices without any intent to communicate. Research has shown that approximately 1 in 4 Kindergarten students may have Sensory Processing Disorder, and about 95% of autistic individuals have difficulty properly registering and using sensory input and many autistic adults report that sensory processing differences are an ongoing significant stressor in their lives. This is why Autism Community Network has developed the Making “Sense” of Autism Program. Our program is different from traditional pediatric occupational therapy in that it typically runs for 12-18 weeks before the individual is discharged to another program that offers traditional occupational therapy focusing on play, fine motor, and self-care goals. Good sensory therapy and a parent who better understands their child’s nervous system (as well as their own !) can lead to a better modulated, self-regulated person who is then able to focus and attend to more traditional methods of teaching skills. In addition, the Making “Sense” of Autism Program focuses on using a child-led, parent-mediated approach, coaching caregivers in the basics of sensory processing and their child’s individual sensory differences. Strategies to improve the child’s brain and nervous system responses to sensory stimuli are taught directly to the caregiver during these sessions. Practice at home during naturally occurring daily routine activities is strongly encouraged. Sessions can be conducted in person or via teletherapy using reflective video feedback of the child and caregiver engaging in sensory-rich activities. Contact adrienne@acn-sa.org for more information. How to start: Contact our Clinical Team. If you are interested in any of our therapy programs, please take the time to contact us through the link below. Start Here Cost of Therapies Cancellation Policy If a therapy appointment is not cancelled at least 24 hours in advance you may be charged a fifty dollar ($50) fee; this will not be covered by your insurance company. Late Arrivals We understand that delays can happen however we must try to keep the other patients and doctors on time. If a patient is 15 minutes past their scheduled time we will have to reschedule the appointment. We accept many forms of medical insurance, including Medicaid. Contact Vanessa Amaya at: vanessa@acn-sa.org

Frequently asked questions. How is ACN connected to the neurodiversity movement? ACN identifies as an ally of the neurodiversity movement, promoting empowerment, connection, and communication within the autism community. Our staff engages in regular training regarding implementation of neurodiversity-affirming, strengths-based practices, and many of us have lived experience of having a loved one on the spectrum. Who leads ACN and provides its services? ACN is led by professionals and a dedicated board, many of whom are parents or family members of neurodivergent individuals, ensuring first-hand understanding of caregivers' challenges. How can I get involved with ACN? You can get involved with ACN by attending events, participating in programs, volunteering, or making a donation to support our mission. How can families benefit from ACN's services? At ACN, we empower the family & caregivers to be the best providers they can be. We help guide you and help you show up for your autistic loved one. Families can also benefit from ACN's services by gaining access to early diagnosis, therapies, resources, support groups, and empowerment programs. Is ACN's assistance available in Spanish? (hablamos español?) Yes, ACN provides assessments, therapies, and resources in both Spanish and English to meet the diverse needs of families. Sí, ACN brinda evaluaciones, terapias y recursos tanto en español como en inglés para satisfacer las diversas necesidades de las familias. How can I support ACN's mission? Tell your friends about us and the work we are doing. You can also support ACN's mission by making donations to help us continue providing high-quality services and resources to the autism community. How can I become a volunteer for ACN? Just reach out! Send us an e-mail to info@acn-sa.org. We've got great things coming up and can always use your help! Does ACN collaborate with other organizations? Yes, quite a few actually! ACN prioritizes forming partnerships and alliances with like-minded organizations to create a broader network of support for the autistic community. Reach out if you think we might be a good match for you. How does ACN contribute to the San Antonio community? ACN strives to make the San Antonio community more accessible and supportive for individuals with autism and their caregivers. Our new inner west side campus is here to serve, and we welcome everyone to take part in raising the bar for autism care and inclusivity in South Texas. How does ACN promote autism awareness and acceptance? ACN's programs, services, and events all work towards raising awareness and promoting acceptance of autism within the community. We encourage aunts, uncles, grandparents, teachers, and first responders, everyone to join our herd and create a circle of protection around the autistic individuals that make our world so special. How can I stay informed about ACN's events and programs? You can stay informed about ACN's events and programs by attending Coffee and Connections sessions, signing up for the blog, subscribing to our emails, following us on social media, or checking out our events page. What is the difference between Pre-K and ECSE? ECSE stands for Early Childhood Special Education. It is a program for children 3-6 years old that have received an educational evaluation and qualify for special education services to help transition into the school setting. Pre-K is typically provided to children 3-4 years old. Program admission is based on a variety of factors. If you are interested in your child attending either of these programs, you should speak to your local school district. Does my child have to be toilet-trained to go to school? No. When a child with developmental differences qualifies through educational testing for a classroom called Early Childhood Special Education (ECSE), they do not need to be toilet-trained to attend. In fact, goals related to your child’s education will be made specifically for them based on this educational testing, and often, toilet-training is one of those goals. This means that the school staff will partner with you to help get your child toilet trained as part of their individual education plan (IEP). Please note that the ECSE classroom is different than a Pre-K 3 or Pre-K 4 classroom because it falls under the special education umbrella, and children must qualify for the program through individualized educational evaluation. My child has a school diagnosis, do they need a medical diagnosis as well? Your child will benefit from having both a school diagnosis, which is called educational eligibility, and a confirmed medical diagnosis of autism. Educational eligibility will assure that your child is given the correct variety and intensity of educationally-focused therapies and supports, while a medical diagnosis helps your child gain further access to clinical supports that might be recommended. It is important to note that children do not have to wait for a medical diagnosis of autism to gain access to therapy, as even a determination of developmental or speech-language delay might open the doors for your child to begin intervention as early as possible. How do I know if my child has been medically diagnosed? At Autism Community Network, you will receive direct feedback from the doctor and other members of the diagnostic team at the end of your visit. During this conversation, your child’s unique profile will be discussed at length, along with recommendations for support, and you will have ample opportunity to ask any questions you may have. When you receive the full report, this diagnosis will be stated in the document, and you will have the opportunity to schedule a follow-up session with our LCSW to review results and any further questions you may have. How are ACN's evaluations conducted? ACN offers strengths-based autism screenings and diagnostic evaluations tailored to each family's needs, available in both telehealth and in-person formats. Does ACN provide speech therapy services? ACN offers specialized, evidence-based social-communication therapies. What educational programs does ACN offer? ACN offers training, educational programs, and learning opportunities, such as Coffee and Connections sessions, corporate trainings, and professional conferences. What is the goal of ACN's autism screenings? ACN's autism screenings aim to identify developmental differences and provide immediate feedback and recommendations for families. How does ACN's diagnostic evaluation process work? ACN offers various diagnostic tracks and collaborates with a team of specialists to provide comprehensive evaluations tailored to each child. Usually, it starts with a screening request that is sent over from your child's doctor. My child got a diagnosis of autism from a different agency, but I didn't like the testing; can you re-test him/her? Unfortunately, at this time, we do not offer re-evaluations once a child receives an autism diagnosis. Do you provide ABA therapy? Autism Community Network provides rigorously tested, developmental-relational, parent-mediated therapies, proven to support enhancements in child social-communicative functioning that generalizes to varied environments and interactive partners and sustains over time. ACN does not offer ABA therapy and respects each family and individual’s right to explore alternative, science-backed interventions that align with their preferences and values. Does ACN provide OT/ST/PT? Autism Community Network does not provide traditional OT or ST services; however, our specialized services are completed by occupational therapists and speech-language pathologists trained to fidelity in their various autism-specific approaches that can therefore be billed as OT and ST. We do not provide PT at this time. My child is diagnosed. Do you offer parent training classes? Yes! We offer group classes and individual therapies to support parent education. Please see our offerings in the Services section of this website. My child is diagnosed. Do you offer respite care? While Autism Community Network does not provide respite care, we are officing with an organization that does! Please see this website about Special Reach for details. https://www.specialreach.com/ My child is diagnosed with a different provider. Can we receive services within your clinic? Absolutely! As a matter of fact, we often hear from families diagnosed elsewhere that they wish they would have known about all our offerings sooner. We would love for your family to be a part of our herd! What is Autism? Autism is a difference in development which may impact communication, the sensory system, relationships, and social interactions. Autism is lifelong and it is of critical importance to address as early as possible due to the malleability of the brain during infancy and early childhood. What are some common signs of autism? Common signs of autism may include challenges in social interaction, communication difficulties, repetitive behaviors, and sensitivity to sensory stimuli. Is there a cure for autism? There is no known cure for autism, but early intervention and various therapies can help individuals with autism develop skills and improve their overall quality of life. Can individuals with autism live independent lives? Many individuals with autism can lead independent lives with appropriate support, therapy, and interventions tailored to their needs. Are boys diagnosed more than girls? This is a compelling question. While data suggests more boys are diagnosed than girls, girls often present quite differently which requires a very seasoned eye to identify markers typically present in the female phenotype. If you are concerned about your daughter, please reach out to info@acn-sa.com Is autism a lifelong condition? Yes, autism is typically a lifelong condition, but early intervention and appropriate support can greatly improve an individual's quality of life. How common is autism? Autism affects approximately 1 in 44 children in the United States, making it a relatively common developmental disorder. Are there different levels of autism severity? Yes, autism severity differs based on the level of support the individual requires. The technical name for autism is Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) because its signs and symptoms vary greatly along a spectrum. My child is sensitive to noises. Does that mean they have autism? No, although most autistic people people experience sensory processing differences, there are also many people with sensory processing differences who are not autistic. My child is showing characteristics of autism. Where do I begin? Come see us. We can schedule your family for a screener where we can help discern your child’s profile and recommend further testing should the clinician deem it necessary. If you have found this website, you are already on your way! We can provide you with many other helpful resources once we get connected. Still can't find what you're looking for? Write us a short message and well get back to you right away! First Name Last Name Email Write a message Thanks for submitting! Submit

Our diagnostic pathway. ACN provides access to strengths-based, individually tailored autism screenings and medical diagnostic evaluations catering to children with referrals 0-5 years and 6 months of age and their families. Evaluations are offered on-site or via telehealth and can be completed in Spanish or in English. 02 Diagnostic Evaluation Currently, ACN offers two different diagnostic tracks dependent upon the unique presentation of the child and family determined at their screening. Diagnostic teams at ACN may be comprised of any of the following neurodiversity-affirming clinical specialists: a developmental-behavioral pediatrician, a pediatric neurologist, a psychologist, an occupational therapist, a speech-language pathologist, a behavior analyst, and/or a clinical social worker. All diagnostic appointments are completed within one day to make the process as convenient as possible for the family. Autism-specific developmental screenings Initial screenings, offered via telehealth or on-site, are performed by an expert autism clinician. Our screeners globally assess to determine developmental strengths, developmental delays, and/or neurodevelopmental differences that may impede the child’s ability to function and thrive. The screening assures that each family will receive immediate feedback and recommendations for supporting their child’s development. If determined to be necessary, the family will be guided in scheduling a diagnostic appointment with ACN tailored toward their individual needs. Additionally, the provision of this screener allows families an accurate idea of their child’s developmental profile and offers recommendations for other supportive services and/or therapeutic interventions while the family waits for full diagnostic evaluation. 01 03 Earliest Connection Clinic Our Earliest Connections Clinic (ECC) was launched in January 2019 with startup funding from Philanthropitch, and continues to flourish through funding from the United Way. ECC provides surveillance and diagnostic assessment for children between the ages of 6 and 36 months of age who are demonstrating developmental differences. Evidence suggests diagnosis of autism can be quite stable as early as 14 months of age (Pierce, 2019). Families noting early developmental differences in their children no longer need to “wait and see", but can team up with ACN to “watch and support”, empowering them to understand and connect with their child and to harness the malleability and neurological plasticity of a developing brain. 04 Case Management Following the diagnostic appointment, our social work team will reach out to help you navigate the “How are WE” and "What's next?" questions. We work with you to determine supports that may be added to scaffold each member of the family’s needs and to create a uniquely tailored plan for next steps your family may consider. Our goal at ACN is to serve as a continuous platform of support for families pre-, during, and following diagnosis. We invite you to the many quality-of-life resources made available to you through our organization. Additionally, we connect you with external resources that may supplement support for your family as you begin navigating your journey. At ACN, the family is our client, and we find that when the family system is supported, the neurodiverse child can thrive. How to start: Download our diagnostic referral form. To schedule an appointment for an autism-specific developmental screener, download our ACN Referral Form for your pediatrician to complete. Download Cost of Diagnostic Services We accept many forms of medical insurance, including Medicaid. Contact Vanessa Amaya at: vanessa@acn-sa.org Cancellation Policy Appointments with ACN are in high demand, therefore, we require a minimum of 48 hours notice for cancellation, which affords us the opportunity to offer the time slot to another patient. Late Arrivals Delays happen, however, if you arrive more than 15 minutes past your scheduled appointment time we will have to reschedule your visit.

Our Services Autism Screening & Diagnostics The goal of our clinical services is to provide expert autism diagnostic medical evaluations backed by the latest research to children up to age seven. All assessments are offered in English and Spanish and can be provided in-person or via telehealth. Read More Innovative, Evidence-Based Therapies ACN offers the latest neurodiversity-affirming therapies targeting our clients' individual needs. Working with our expert therapists, you will develop unique goals tailored to your child and your personal family journey. Therapies are available in-person or via telehealth. Spanish may be available upon request. Read More BIG Futures Programming Autism Community Network provides innovative and engaging autism support services to families and individuals living with autism. From Camp Ausome! to our Fam Jams, we provide a way for autistic children and their families to socialize, engage in collaborative projects, and develop meaningful skills and relationships. Read More Training and Mentorship/Educational Programs Every week Autism Community Network provides training, educational programs, and learning opportunities. ACN is proud to be a teaching facility for the future leaders in autism care. Join us every Friday for Coffee and Connections, sign up for our blog, or share our event calendar with your network. Read More

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