Autism Support Resources for Parents

For parents with a newly diagnosed child or family member on the autism spectrum, getting access to the right information can be a challenging task. For many individuals, this is the first time caring for someone with autism, and guidance is often needed. If you are early in this journey, completing a comprehensive autism evaluation can help clarify diagnoses, recommendations, and next steps. As the prevalence of autism continues to rise, so does the number of people directly and indirectly affected. Fortunately, there are many people, programs, and organizations in place to help families navigate these circumstances.

Some of the first people you can talk to are your child’s pediatrician or diagnosing psychologist. They are well-positioned to point you toward professionals and programs that provide assistance. After an evaluation, most developmental pediatricians and psychologists recommend services to support treatment for Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). These often include ABA therapy, speech therapy, and occupational therapy. While doctors may not always provide an extensive list of providers, many autism-specific organizations and websites exist to help families find appropriate resources.

Many different organizations provide support for families in need. These supports may include up-to-date information on autism, guidance on therapy options, provider directories, educational resources, and opportunities to connect with other families. For those unfamiliar with autism, these organizations can be life-changing by offering education and tools to help provide a strong quality of life for loved ones. While most organizations operate nationwide, some focus on local communities, so it’s always best to check online for the most current information.

Two national resources we recommend exploring are Autism Speaks, an organization dedicated to creating an inclusive world for individuals with autism through advocacy, services, support, and research, and the Autism Society, which empowers individuals and families to make informed decisions, access support and programming, and build meaningful connections.

While a broad online search may yield many results, starting with trusted national organizations can help narrow the search and ensure the information you’re finding is reliable. Depending on where you live, state and county resources may also be available. Local resources can be especially valuable for finding autism-friendly events, parent support groups, and up-to-date information on special education laws and regulations. Many families also review frequently asked questions when comparing services and supports.

Here at Ally Behavior Centers, our facilities are conveniently located to serve families throughout the Washington, D.C. metro area, including Maryland, Virginia, and the District of Columbia. This region offers a wide range of resources to support children and families affected by autism, including center-based programs designed to support skill development, daily living skills, and classroom readiness.

The Arc is the largest national community-based organization advocating for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. With hundreds of chapters across the United States and headquarters in Washington, D.C., The Arc provides services, support, and advocacy for individuals and families of all ages.

In Maryland, Pathfinders for Autism is the state’s largest autism organization, offering training, resources, and activities—many of which are free of charge. Their statewide provider database is a valuable tool for families searching for ABA services and other supports.

For Northern Virginia residents, the Autism Society of Northern Virginia (ASNV) supports more than 5,000 individuals and families affected by autism. ASNV is a chapter of the Autism Society, which has over 90 locations nationwide and has been a trusted source of autism information since 1965.

For families in Washington, D.C., DC Autism Parents is a helpful resource for locating services. Additionally, the DC Autism Parents Autism Resource Guide provides a comprehensive list of providers serving families in the District.

When using these resources to make informed decisions, it’s important to involve all relevant adults. This may include parents, caregivers, the individual themselves, family members, educational consultants, or healthcare providers. Understanding how providers deliver care and measure outcomes—such as Ally’s clinical excellence model—can help families choose services with confidence. While we can’t cover every available resource in one article, we encourage you to explore the full list on our Resources & Research page.

Lastly, if you are a service provider or organization that supports individuals with autism, please contact us at info@allybehavior.com. We are always looking to expand our growing list of trusted resources. With access to strong, reliable support, families can feel empowered and equipped to help their loved ones thrive.