You Suspect Autism. Now What? Tips To Access Funding
You’ve been observing your child for some time because you’ve noticed differences in their development in comparison to a sibling, family member, or peer. You’ve scoured the internet for answers and your search has led you to a possible diagnosis: Autism. Now what? After your initial shock wears off, you decide to take action in the best interest of your child. What is your next step? Where do you start, who do you talk to, and where do you go? We’ve put together a short guide to help you secure an assessment and access autism funding in Canada.
Autism Spectrum Disorder is a neurological disorder that affects the function of the brain. It is characterized by challenges in social communication and interaction, and by restricted and repetitive patterns of behavior, interests, or activities. Autism is a spectrum disorder which means that no two individuals will present the same. Symptoms and their intensity will differ for each individual which results in a spectrum diagnosis ranging from mild to severe.
Symptoms of autism are typically visible by 12 months, however, assessments are usually done at age two to give your child more time to develop. This was our experience as we saw signs by ten months. Early signs of autism include lack of eye contact, no interest in forming relationships with others, impaired communication, and sensitivity to light and sound. The CDC has put together a checklist for typical developmental milestones here.
Steps To Schedule Assessment
1. Trust your gut
You know your child better than anyone else. If you feel something is wrong, trust your gut and seek answers. Well-intentioned family members and friends may give advice to comfort or dissuade you from taking action however, it is better to seek professional advice to rule out autism than to sit around and wait.
2. Talk to your family physician
The first step to addressing your suspicion is to speak with your family physician. Bring up all your concerns with concrete examples. This will alert your doctor who should start screening for symptoms as well. Your doctor should then submit a referral to a psychologist or psychiatrist, depending on the requirements of your province, who will conduct the assessment. If you feel your physician is not taking your concerns seriously, get a second opinion. Assessments can take months to book so don’t waste time with a doctor not addressing your concerns.
3. Schedule assessment
Once your specialist referral has been sent, they’ll call you to schedule an appointment for your child’s assessment. Remember, it may be months before they have an opening so try not to miss that call or follow-up if you do not hear from them within two weeks.
Your assessment may consist of visits to other specialists (eg. hearing and vision) to rule out other possible causes for symptoms your child may be presenting. Each clinician will conduct a series of tests and conduct interviews using questionnaires to assess your child.
Once all assessments are complete, you will receive a final appointment to discuss the final report, respond to questions you may have, and discuss treatment options.
Accessing Autism Funding and Support
Get a copy of your diagnosis report
To access funding or support, your child will need an official autism diagnosis. Once you have your diagnosis report, call your province’s government autism funding agency immediately. There may be waitlists for funding, for example here in Ontario, your child may have to wait for up to three years or more however, there are no waitlists in other provinces such as Nova Scotia. Click here for a list of government websites in each Province.
Social worker assigned
Once you’ve contacted your local agency, you will be assigned a social worker who will guide you through the process by giving you information on all available funding.
Complete funding applications
Your social worker will also assist with completing funding application forms and answering questions you have. This process can be long and tedious but crucial to getting your child the funding the need to access services. Research what’s available and apply for everything. Do not leave money on the table. You can also access other disability benefits, not exclusive to autism on Canada.ca. Be sure to look out for the Disability Tax Credit. There is also funding for respite services, medical equipment, incontinent grants, Access 2 Pass, and much more so it is essential that you take the time to do your research for your Province.
Find Reputable Service Providers
Once you’ve secured funding look for a therapy center that values the success of their clients. There are many options available, but I can tell you not all providers operate in the best interest of our children. Due your due diligence and research each company prior to handing them your money. Follow this checklist to find the best provider for your family:
- They have been in business for a long time
- Clear company goals, values, and accountability
- Strong clinical team, overseen by qualified BCBAs and Psychologists
- Ensure staff have proper academic and professional qualifications to conduct behavioral therapy sessions
- Ask about vulnerable sector checks
- Observe frequency of staff training and development to ensure they are keeping up with changes in the industry
- Utilize evidence-based strategies
- Individualized education plan for each child
- Value data and implements measurable goal
- Open and honest communication with families
We hope this outline sets you on the right track to accessing the funding and services your child needs. Remember to never stop advocating for your child!