Teaches basic concepts such as new shapes or advanced concepts such as colors or characteristics. Some customization is available. Appropriate for children ages 2–4.

A initiative called ‘Birth to 5: Watch Me Thrive!’ was launched recently by the U.S. Department of Education and the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services to promote behavioral and developmental screening for young children ages birth to 5. By raising awareness of child development, the program will help families look for and celebrate milestones, promote universal screenings, identify delays as early as possible, and improve the support available to help children succeed.

Multiple resources and supports are available for early childhood professionals and families to help track progress and determine potential delays in young children.

Areas of specialty include speech and language development, social skill programming, fine motor development, sensory integration, Applied Behavior Analysis, music therapy, and independent education evaluations. After school social groups are available for help with social skills.

Therapists have extensive experience of working with schools and individual families.

Social Summer Camp registration opens in April of each year. Campers attend a 3 hour session daily for 2 weeks in June. Call or email for more information and a camp packet will be sent to you.

Consultants create programming based on each child’s specific social, communication, academic, and self-help needs. Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) forms the backbone of their therapy with other approaches encompassed within it.  Services for children 2-20 years of age, including several social skills groups.

The social groups are held at a space in Independence Square Plaza: 6537 Brecksville Rd., in Independence

Visit the ABA Outreach website for current social skills class schedule and rates.

Accepted Insurance: Anthem, United/Optum, Etna, CareSource. No waivers. Accept private payment. Scholarships: Autism scholarship, JP, NEON, family resource fund, private grants.

ABA Therapy Solutions provides services for children and young adolescents with autism and other developmental disabilities. Services include individualized programming and development, verbal behavior therapy, assessments, behavior intervention plans, social skills training, functional communication training, school consulting, IEP development, and BCBA/BCaBA supervision.

They serve the Greater Cleveland/Akron area. Services are covered by insurance and private pay.

Created in 1994, ABC Pediatric Therapy provides speech, physical, and occupational therapy in a child friendly environment.

ABC works directly with Social Security, Ohio Medicaid, CHIP (Children’s Health Insurance Program), BCMH (Bureau for Children with Medical Handicaps), UHC Children’s Foundation, ARC, Bright Beginnings (formerly Help Me Grow), Building Blocks, PASSS, Autism Society of Greater Cincinnati, Down Syndrome Association of Greater Cincinnati, EI Individual Budget, and Paige’s Princess.

Multiple Locations in the Cincinnati area:
Red Bank
Western Hills
Beavercreek
Miamisburg
Middletown
West Chester

The contact information listed here is for their West Chester office. For other location contact information, visit their website.

Occupational therapy services in a wide range of methods for babies, children and adolescents, along with summer camps for preschool and school aged children to work on fine motor and gross motor skills.

Write 4 U Camp — for students in 1st–3rd grade
Write-On Into Kindergarten — for ages 5-7

Friends In Motion — for tweens age 10-12 who want to meet new friends and try out a variety of leisure activities. The group will be lead by an Occupational Therapist and have a max ratio of 4:1.

Provides intervention services to children with a variety of needs as well as provide trainings and resources for families and schools.

They offer homeschool and center-based curriculum. Goals are created based on the needs of each individual child in the areas of social & emotional functioning, academic skills, language development, daily living, and fine & gross motored skills.

They also offer home intervention services, school support, academic tutoring, and social skills groups, early childhood preschool, social groups

Does not accept insurance, but they do accept the Jon Peterson Scholarship and the Ohio Autism Scholarship.

A privately owned speech therapy practice providing individualized and group speech, language and social communication services to children in need. They also provide accent reduction.

The mission of the Achievement Centers for Children is to enable and empower children with disabilities and their families to grow, learn, play and prepare for lifelong achievement in society. The agency serves children from birth through adulthood, with a special focus on children from birth through age five.

Their unique, comprehensive service model weaves together education and autism services, therapy services and Intensive Therapy Clinic, and family support services to meet the needs of the entire family and provide the best outcomes.

Achievement Centers has a wide range of summer programs and camps for both children and adults, that range from residential camp (“overnight” camp) to day camps, sports and recreation programs, horseback therapeutic programs, and weekend respite camps. Visit their website for more information.

The Achievement Centers for Children’s Autism Program, in collaboration with the Educational Service Center of Cuyahoga County, operates K-6th grade classrooms on the East Side of Cleveland serving children diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder.

They are an alternative public school option, with many local school districts referring and transporting their students to the Achievement Centers. The curriculum is aligned with Ohio’s K-8 Academic Content Standards.

A six-week summer program to complete the 12-month educational and therapeutic focus is included in the yearly tuition.

A school serving students from kindergarten through eighth grade on the West Side in Westlake, Ohio.

They are an alternative public school option, with many local school districts referring and transporting their students to the Achievement Centers. The curriculum is aligned with Ohio’s K-8 Academic Content Standards.

A six-week summer program to complete the 12-month educational and therapeutic focus is included in the yearly tuition.

Program is designed for children 18 months and older with a broad range of disabilities including autism spectrum disorders.
Instructors teach children both independent swimming and water safety in an indoor, warm pool that is fully-accessible. Each child receives individualized, progressive instruction that makes learning achievable, sensory integrative and fun.

Join us for a program geared for children and pre-teens developmentally at the preschool level and specifically designed for children with special needs and their families. The program incorporates a schedule board, double visuals, and sensory opportunities for participants. A half-hour of socialization time follows the programs

This program currently offered at the following CCPL branches: Middleburg Heights, North Royalton, Parma, Solon

Please click on the website link below to register.

They bring together 5 pediatric specialties under one roof to deliver the best outcomes and quality of life for children and families affected by neurological and developmental disorders. The center includes pediatric experts in developmental and behavioral pediatrics, neurobehavioral psychology, neurology, neurosurgery and physiatry (physical medicine and rehabilitation).

In addition to accepting several insurance plans, Akron Children’s also accepts Caresource.

Offers a variety of school services for children with developmental disabilities from birth to 21, including Early Intervention, Preschool, and School Age services.

Adult Services include employment assistance,community support, supported living/waiver services, investigative support, family support and transportation services.

The Autism Center at Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh of UPMC provides evaluations, referral coordination and support, and treatment options for young children suspected to have an Autism Spectrum Disorder.

Experienced professionals will provide your family with a comprehensive assessment of your child’s development (ages 1–5) through the expertise of a:
• Psychologist
• Speech-Language Pathologist
• Occupational Therapist
• Social Worker

They have current openings at the clinic and they offer flexible scheduling for out of town clients (both visits on same day, versus our traditional two visits).

Autism Diagnostic Clinic is currently only private pay, but families can use their Heath Savings Account as well as set up a payment plan.

This program is designed for children with autism from diagnosis to 6 years old. Available services include:

Intensive Applied Behavioral Analysis intervention
Functional behavior assessments
Behavioral therapy and consultations
Speech and language services

The Autism Society of Ohio is a chapter of the national Autism Society and has it’s 501c3 non-profit status under the umbrella of the national Autism Society.

It is dedicated to improving the lives of all affected by autism in Ohio through information and referral, family support, advocacy, professional development, raising awareness and resource development.

A picture-based communication app developed for children who are nonverbal. Avaz grows with the child to develop literacy. It is the only app that tracks therapy sessions to help you measure the child’s progress.

This app helps to practice following directions and answering simple “Wh” questions related to the animals’ responses; Inspires curiosity as youngsters explore cause & effect relationships; Builds language as parents help children put names to the many emotions and physical reactions displayed; and develops empathy by connecting the animals’ emotions both positive and negative to their causes.

Speech and language services are provided to families free of charge by student clinicians from BW’s communication sciences & disorders undergraduate major and speech-language pathology graduate program. Sessions are generally scheduled on a weekly basis and are offered year-round, including summer.

Diagnostic evaluation, speech & Language and hearing screenings are also available.

Students work under the supervision of licensed speech-language pathologists who are certified by the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association and licensed by the Ohio Board of Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology.

Pediatric behavioral psychologist and Neuro-Psychologist.
Appointments may be requested online or at the phone number listed here.

Accepts Ohio Medicaid insurance.

Music therapy, adaptive music lessons, music enrichment, adapted dance classes and summer camps offered. Summer dance classes are also available, and are held at The North Royalton Dance Academy.

Adapted Triple Threat Camp –Campers ages 6-18 years will be introduced to the foundations of musical theatre in the areas of singing, dancing, and acting. Programming will be tailored to the individualized needs of all participants, allowing for self-expression and exploration into musical instruments, costumes, and fine and gross motor skills.

PASS Camp –a chance for campers to engage together socially through structured musical experiences. Each week, a different musical project will be developed and completed. Camp is led by a music therapist.

Blue Sprig is on a mission to change the world for children with autism. They are committed to providing the very best and most compassionate ABA therapy services to the children and families they serve.

There is no waiting list in any of their clinics. To get started, contact them to schedule a tour and complimentary consultation. Blue Sprig accepts most major insurances and their administrative team will verify your ABA benefits and work with you to help you understand them.

Dr. Bothe’s special interests include high-functioning autism, anxiety disorders, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), school issues, international adoption, fetal alcohol spectrum disorders and stress management. She is board certified in both pediatrics and developmental behavioral pediatrics.

Note that she does not perform ASD diagnosis past age 12.

Accepts Medicare, Medicaid and CareSource insurance plans.

Formerly known as Behavior Consulting Services, LLC., Breakthrough Therapy Services works with families in Cuyahoga, Erie, Huron, and Lorain Counties.

Offers ABA, Academic tutoring (with intervention specialist), parent training and consultation, school staff training and in-services and a year-round social skills group for students through age 14.

BREATHE events are hosted by Valley church twice during the year – usually in the spring and fall. They accept children with special needs ages 2-18 and their siblings. For the next scheduled event, please contact the church office.

This is a resource app for you to share with your child to help teach skills such as problem solving, self-control, planning, and task persistence. Breathe, Think, Do with Sesame is intended for parents and caregivers to use with their young children (ages 2-5).

Available in English and Spanish.

Bridgeway Academy is a non-profit organization with the mission to meet the educational and therapeutic needs of children with autism and other developmental disabilities. They are a full service Education and Therapy center. They offer full day educational services for preschool through high school aged students as well as a full array of therapeutic services that include speech, occupational, physical music therapy as well as behavioral and psychological services.

They serve students within 9 counties in central and southern Ohio.

They accept some insurance companies for psychological services and publically funded child care (school services) and state plan Medicaid (therapy services). They also accept Level 1, I/O and Self Waivers.

Free membership website that is a program of Easter Seals Greater Houston. It provides information about and access to educational and therapeutic tools for mobile devices. The site provides caregivers and professionals with the best resources for choosing apps to enhance everyday life for people with disabilities.The site was created by parents and therapists who began using the iPad with children who have special needs.

Speech language pathologists and occupational therapists created an app review system for the site that focuses on skills rather than age, diagnosis or developmental level to help improve outcomes for a person with a disability.

Bright Beginnings is an organization made up of people working to ensure expectant parents and families with young children receive high-quality services during the crucial early years of a child’s life. Services include:

Scheduling home visits that are at a convenient time and place
Bringing information in response to your questions or needs
Bringing age-appropriate activities and materials for you and your child
Conducting developmental screenings and assessments
Sharing what you can expect your child to be doing at each stage of development
Encouraging and supporting you as a parent and as your child’s most important teacher
Connecting you to needed resources and services in the community

A smart and fun coloring app that has a kid-friendly, intuitive design. It provides easy-to-use tools that help kids improve drawing skills and boost creativity.

Servicing children of all ages with BCBA’s, ABA therapists, Registered Behavior Technicians using ABA/Verbal behavior therapy for in-home programs, school consulting, parent education, early intervention, and social skills groups. Accepts children ages 18 months through 20 years.

They are in-network with most insurance companies and are Autism scholarship and SELF Waiver Medicaid providers.

Additional location at 38530 Chester Road in Avon, Ohio.

Also known as the Bureau for Children with Developmental and Special Needs.

They offer services, evaluations, connection with community resources and financial assistance for families of children with autism needing medical assistance for a secondary diagnosis, such as GI issues or physical disabilities. Note that they are the last payer after insurance and Medicaid.

Toll Free phone number: 1(800)755-4769

Provides specialized training in working with young children and has extensive experience treating articulation, language, apraxia, autism, and stuttering.

Busy Hands Bright Minds accepts Medical Mutual insurance and offers payment plans for clients who use HSA accounts or self pay.

The Celeste Myers Dental Clinic provides comprehensive oral health services for infants, children and adolescents. All staff have been trained to care for children with special needs.
Accepts patients up to 15 years old.

Offers comprehensive, multidisciplinary care focusing on evidence based treatment, education, research and advocacy for children with the diagnosis of an ASD, from first diagnosis through age 22.

Services include:
Intensive Behavioral Intervention (ABA)
Behavioral Consultation
School Support Services
Asperger’s Counseling Services
Asperger’s Social Skills Groups
Parent Training

In addition there are therapy, diagnosis and counseling services available through other hospital departments.

Accepts all commercial insurance, waivers, Autism Scholarship, private pay, Medicaid and Medicare insurance.

Cognitive behavioral therapists and solution-focused therapists are on staff. Services are available to children, adolescents, and young adults who are in school up to age 22. They also offer group therapy and community support.

They offer autism assessments, but cannot diagnose.

Accepts Medicaid and CareSource insurance.

Breathe is an evening of respite for families of children with special needs. Children—those with special needs and their siblings—aged 18 and under are invited to a night of fun activities just for them. Their parents are invited to take a break and enjoy an evening for themselves while their children are cared for and entertained.

Read their flyer or search our Event Calendar for current dates.

Cincinnati Therapy Connections provides speech and occupational therapy services in the home, co-op, daycare, and/or educational setting in and around Cincinnati. They take on children and young adults ages 2 through 18. Therapists incorporate ABA, TEAACH, PROMPT, AAC, FloorTime, sensory integration, assistive technology, and social skills training into their therapy. They tailor services to each client as needed.

The accept the Jon Peterson Scholarship, grants, and private pay in addition to the Autism Scholarship.

Developmental and behavioral pediatric specialist who sees patients in downtown Cleveland, Fairlawn and Medina UH locations.

The new Cleveland Children’s Museum has created a sensory friendly room in partnership with Monarch School for Autism.

It supports their mission for learning and development of all children. Located on the main floor of the museum, everything in the dimly-lit room is designed to help calm a child or adult down.

The museum opened in its new location November 6, 2017 with newly-designed exhibits for children and adults of all ages.

The Clinic Center encompasses a variety of services for individuals with autism in their state-of-the-art autism facility. It is dedicated to treatment, education, and research for children, adolescents, young adults and families dealing with autism spectrum disorders and is uniquely integrated within the healthcare system and housed in the Debra Ann November Wing at Cleveland Clinic Children’s Hospital for Rehabilitation Campus.

Outreach and consultation services are available for children as young as 3 for initial diagnosis or second-opinion autism evaluations.

Functional behavioral assessments are offered for families to increase a child’s functioning and independence to the fullest extent possible.

The Outpatient Center in Rocky River includes a variety of therapies available on an outpatient basis.

Offers a diagnositic clinic, functional behavior assessments and outreach/consultation. Speech/language assessments are also available.

The Lerner School for Autism serves students from preschool to age 22.

Social SPIES Programs for children with high-functioning Autism/Asperger’s Disorder offers a social skills program in conjunction with a parent training group.

The Center for Autism – Rocky River is a newly configured 20,000-square-foot center with several individual rooms for behavior, occupational, and speech and language therapy, plus waiting and conference areas. Families have free access to the Don Umerley Civic Center during and after patient therapy sessions.

Parent training is available and considered a key component to successful intervention. Augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) evaluations and functional behavioral assessment are available as well.

Accepts patients from age 18 months through 7 years for outpatient therapies.

Accepts all insurance, Jon Peterson and Autism scholarships, private pay. No waivers.

Offers neuropsychological assessments and speech and language therapies for children and adults.

Satellite offices located in Lorain, South Euclid, and Broadview Heights. Westlake satellite office to open Fall, 2018.

Accepts Medicare, Medicaid, private insurance and private pay.

The CSU Health and Physical Education Department regularly hosts adapted PE courses. Currently there are no specific adapted swimming courses, but private arrangements can be made. Contact Mr. Loovis (information provided) to discuss any opportunities.

Columbus Tutoring Services offers intervention services for children with and without learning disabilities or other special needs in the areas of math, reading, spelling, written expression, organization, and executive functioning skills.

Provides the following:

– Comprehensive Speech-Language & Educational Services (Preschool through Adulthood)
– Diagnostic Evaluations for all ages
– Individual & Group Therapy
– Socialization & Literacy Book Clubs
– Assistive Technology
– College Success Planning
– Communication Based Behavioral Interventions
– Educational & Agency Consultations & Professional Training

The Comprehensive Care Program sees patients with a variety of chronic health problems, including developmental delays and intellectual disabilities. They cover all aspects of care, from basic physical exams to accessing community services. Each patient is assigned an RN Care Coordinator, who helps with coordinating appointments and helps the patient (and their family) find any resources they may need.

The MetroHealth Autism Assessment Clinic (MAAC) evaluates developmental and behavior concerns, including autism. People meet one-on-one with a comprehensive care physician who is board-certified in neurodevelopmental disabilities and behavioral pediatrics. The Behavior Assessment Clinic is typically held once a month.

Your child doesn’t have to be a patient of the Comprehensive Care Program or a MetroHealth patient to use MAAC. You can just make an appointment, or you can get a referral from your child’s doctor. After you schedule your first appointment, a care coordinator will contact you.

There are Spanish-speaking professionals available. Hay profesionales de habla hispana disponibles.

Accepts Medicaid and CareSource insurance plans.

Although the community knows the Board of DD best for adult activities centers and group homes, they offer a full range of services, from in-home early intervention programs for very young children and their families to leisure programs for seniors and specialized therapies (speech-language, occupational and physical), psychological services, support administration, family resources and respite care, supported living, vocational training, community employment, rehabilitation engineering and crisis intervention.

Listening Line- (216) 736-2652
Each Monday a new, short message is available that highlights topics of interest, such as Employment First, community integration, etc. We are hoping this new communication option helps share important information for those who may not have access to or prefer our website and/or print materials.

Sensory program available for school-aged children with special needs or challenges at the Orange branch, one Saturday a month. The program incorporates hands-on activity stations and social interaction.

Sensory storytime  for children who are developmentally at the preschool level, offered at the Bay Village, Fairview Park, Independence, Mayfield Hts. and Parma branches. The monthly program incorporates a schedule board, double visuals, and sensory opportunities for participants and a half-hour socialization time.

Use the event search on the Cuyahoga County Public Library website to find current program schedules.

Dahlberg Gibson Learning Center is an intervention program for infants, toddlers and preschool-age children with intellectual and developmental disabilities. The school uses early intervention strategies, peer play models and play-based curriculum to foster student learning and growth.

Older, preschool-age children with intellectual and developmental disabilities attend the Dahlberg Gibson Learning Center alongside typically developing children in an integrated classroom. Typically developing children attend the preschool free of charge. They serve as peer play models for the children with disabilities, while they receive the educational services to develop their own self-regulation and problem-solving skills.

The Daniel Tiger for Parents app empowers parents and caregivers with songs and videos from the hit PBS KIDS series “Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood”.

It features over two dozen Daniel Tiger songs, supporting videos from Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood, and helpful hints for parents about the important skills children need to be ready for school and life.

Dr. Davis enjoys working with children and adolescents who are socially awkward and struggling to be part of a peer group. She also supports adolescents and adults who are going through transitions in their lives that may be causing them worry or anxiety.

Dr. Davis does accept Medicaid.

The Division of Developmental and Behavioral Pediatrics (DDBP) has programs for specific developmental needs, including Autism Spectrum Disorders (The Kelly O’Leary Center). They also partner with sub-specialists in child psychiatry, child neurology, and pediatric gastroenterology to ensure children receive quality care in a coordinated manner, with specialists who have expertise in seeing children with different developmental profiles.

They offer evidence-based care for individuals from birth through transition to adulthood.

A full-day, center-based, intensive behavioral program serving children from age of earliest diagnosis through age five. The program focuses on teaching communication, play, socialization, and developmentally appropriate skills. We offer parents a variety of opportunities for coaching, including a lecture series and guided classroom and home visits.

The Center for Autism also offers an integrated part-time preschool program for children with high functioning autism three full days per week. The classroom allows for up to 10 children with autism and 5 neuro-typical children. The program will focus on building communication, play, social interaction, and Kindergarten readiness skills.

Early Intervention (EI) is a statewide system that provides coordinated early intervention services to parents of eligible children under the age of three with developmental delays or disabilities. Every family served in EI will have a local EI team that consists of a service coordinator, service providers, and your family.

Local contact information is available by searching on the website.

Offers ABA services, One-on-One tutoring, Home- and School-based consultation and support services, school-based consultations, and occupational and speech therapies.

They accept the following health insurance: Aetna, Altcare, Anthem, CareSource, Humana, Medical Mutual. They are also autism scholarship providers, they are a “Help Me Grow” Systems of Payment Provider and accept TRICARE Echo.

Offerings include:
Therapy services, including speech/language therapy, physical therapy, occupational therapy, and early intervention; child care for children 6 wks to 6 yrs; adult day programs; In-home respite care; and a Skills Development Center specifically for teens with autism to help them transition to adulthood.

Read this document for more information about Easter Seals’ services.

Epicenter uses a unique, collaborative, individualized approach specializing in Applied Behavior Analysis Therapy (ABA) to help individuals diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder, and other neurological disorders, thrive in their environments.

Epicenter provides Applied Behavior Analysis services in the client’s home, school, community, and vocational environments to teach and encourage independence and to assure collaboration with parents and other professionals from whom your child is learning.

Dedicated to providing the highest quality service, they provide ongoing training for their staff ensuring up to date, evidenced-based behavioral interventions. Featuring the PEAK Relational Training System, they provide a comprehensive assessment across a wider range of language abilities and higher-order language and cognition abilities, while promoting generalization. Epicenter also uses the PEAK assessment to demonstrate relationship to IQ, challenging behavior, expressive/receptive language, and benchmarking compared to neurotypical peers.

*Accepts private pay, Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield, Medical Mutual, Optum/United Health Care, Caresource, and Aetna.

Arts education, performance, and advocacy

This app is designed to provide a fun and engaging way to practice listening, following directions, colors, spatial concepts, auditory memory and auditory processing. It is appropriate for a toddler or preschooler, or any young child who need practice following directions.

Pediatrician specializing in developmental disabilities. Accepts Medicare and CareSource insurance plans.

His practice called Kids in the Sun has two locations:

UH Broadview Medical Center
5901 Royalton Road, Suite 2100
Broadview Heights, OH 44147
Phone: 440-526-8222
Fax : 440-526-7881

18181 Pearl Road, Suite A200
Strongsville, OH
Phone: 440-816-4950
Fax: 440-816-4960

The center provides occupational, speech-language, physical, and behavioral therapies, an early start autism program, educational supports with intervention specialists and teachers, individual counseling, and support from paraprofessionals.

In addition, they offer sensory processing solutions, mealtime management and school tutoring services.
Services available for children from infant through age 18.

Social Skills Group opportunity for Winter 2019 for ages 9 and up. Sundays, January through March. A pre-screening is required prior to participating.
For more information, download this form.

Payment options: Check and credit, Autism and Jon Peterson scholarship, some insurance (except for Aetna, Cigna, Medicaid, or BCMH).
Accepts CareSource insurance plan.

Galvin Therapy Center also has a West Side location:
38530 Chester Road
Avon, OH 44011

Dr. Golden’s specialty areas include Attention Deficit-Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), bipolar disorder and psychotic disorders, autism, anger management and anxiety.

He sees children, adolescents and adults up to age 40. He is located at the Willoughby offices of Psychological & Behavioral Consultants (PsychBC).

Through the Roof Ministry offers a special service called Take A Break, which is a respite event for the families of a child (ages 6+) or adult with disabilities. Take A Break provides 4 hours of free time for families to do whatever they want – whether taking in a movie, going shopping, or going out to dinner – providing these families with a way to rejuvenate and recharge their batteries. Call the contact phone number to be placed on the waiting list.

Meets on one Saturday each month from 5 PM to 9 PM in the Activity Center. See dates below.

This evening event at Grace Church is for children, teens and adults ages 6 and over with disabilities.

Dates for 2018
January 13 May 5 September 8
February 3 June 2 October 6
March 3 July 7 November 3
April 7 August 4

Note that this resource offers one or more therapies that are researched-based, but not evidence-based.

Dr. Grossberg specializes in children and young adults with special needs.

Accepts Medicaid, Medicare and CareSource insurance plans.

Also sees patients at Hattie Larlham Foundation in Mantua ((330)274-2272)

Preschool services for children ages 3-5

Heartstring Melodies specializes in providing quality music therapy services to children and young adults in the Northwest Ohio area. They offer individual and group music therapy sessions, using music as the therapeutic medium.

There are summer camps available, in addition to therapy sessions.

Provides residential services to non-ambulatory individuals with severe or profound mental retardation and multiple disabilities. They also accept individuals on trach and BIPAP support. Residents range in age from infancy to adults.

Accepts Medicaid, Medicare and CareSource insurance plans.

Provides a state-of-the-art diagnostic program, treatment services and support services, in addition to parent education, group therapy and training programs that enhance the lives of individuals with ASD and their families. Note that some appointments may require a physician referral.

Diagnostic Services — a comprehensive multidisciplinary diagnostic battery that follows the Autism Speaks- Autism Treatment Network diagnostic protocol

Medical Collaborative Care — on-going follow-up care by Developmental/Behavioral Pediatricians, Nurse Practitioners, and Child Psychiatrists

Therapeutic Programming Session — children can undergo a Therapeutic Programming Session with a speech therapist, occupational therapist, and psychologist, all of whom have expertise in autism spectrum disorders.

Therapy Services — staff provides individual and group therapy models in the areas of speech therapy, occupational therapy and behavior therapy

Early Intensive Behavior Intervention — The Center offers intensive programming based on Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) for preschool-aged children with ASD.

Family medical practice, including adults.

Accepts Medicaid insurance.

Can provide diagnosis and assessment of communication disorders. Can also assist and diagnose people with hearing impairments. Does not diagnose autism spectrum disorders.

They are now offering a 7-week social skills program for 10-14 year olds called Boundaries Social Skills Group. This group will focus on identifying the difference between a friend and an acquaintance. Participants will learn to identify the characteristics of each relationship level and the types of behavior appropriate for that relationship. Sessions for Spring, 2018 will be held on Wednesdays at 5:30. Call to register.

Accepts Medicaid insurance.

Offers many services for children and young adults (ages 18 months – 22 yrs.) with a multitude of neurological and psychological diagnoses, including treatment services and intervention with an emphasis on prevention, behavior management and positive behavioral supports.

New programs include an autism diagnostic clinic (with a guarantee of 4-week scheduled appointments) ;
A new adult services division called Link Up offering a day program, which will accept the medicaid waivers;
KidsLink Connect — an insurance-based intensive ABA home and/or center programming

All professionals are experts in behavioral intervention.

These therapists have experience working with children and adolescents with autism: Michele DePolo; Richard Cowan

Website that offers several quality education apps exclusively available through iTunes.  All  games are designed to work on Apple’s iPhone, iPod touch and iPad. They are have been specifically developed using an ABA approach.

Appointments can be requested online or at the phone number listed here.

Accepts Medicaid, Medicare and CareSource insurance plans.

Adaptive programming available for people with special needs.

Offering programs for children of all abilities.
Offers preschool inclusion classes and summer camp programs for children ages 2 1/2-5 years old.

Tutoring services throughout the school year available for children through third grade.

School age summer camp for children kindergarten through age 10.

Accepts Medicare, Medicaid and CareSource insurance plans.

Linden Behavioral Pediatrics includes behavioral medicine, as well as the more general practice of child psychology. They offer counselors, psychologists, and speech language pathologists. They offer Educational Services as well.

LBP doctors and therapists are considered “out-of-network” by all insurance companies.

Various day and overnight camps offered for kids ages 18 months through 16 years. Before and after care is available.

Provides opportunities for children and teens with emotional, physical and developmental disabilities and their families to take advantage of many of the Mandel JCC programs and services. Playmakers Youth Theatre, camps and many other of their children’s and teen programs are inclusive and children with disabilities are able to participate alongside their peers.

They also offer special needs aquatic therapy (ages 2+) and personal training for people with disabilities.

Visit the Mandel JCC website for current program schedule.

Dr. Marcotty is a pediatric physician, but will see adults with a strabismus.

Adaptive music lessons and therapy in your home. Fee is based on travel costs, in addition to lessons.

Professionals specializing in the assessment and treatment of children with Autism Spectrum Conditions, Anxiety Disorders, Attention Deficit Disorders, Depression, behavioral concerns, developmental issues, and chronic medical problems.

Early Identification of Autism Clinic — they will evaluate children under the age of 3 years (36 months) for a potential autism spectrum disorder (ASD). The multidisciplinary team includes a clinical psychologist and a speech-language pathologist (SLP) who can accurately and efficiently assess your child and provide recommendations for growth. Families can expect to complete information gathering/prework by phone or video conference and meet for a single, 3-to-4-hour evaluation appointment. The appointment concludes with diagnostic feedback and families will receive a brief report that day with diagnosis (if applicable), recommendations, and guidance that can be used to seek necessary interventions. A detailed report will be mailed within two weeks.

Teen/adult Services — they offer an executive functioning clinic and a teen emotional regulation clinic.

Dr. Heather Dukes-Murray specializes in the assessment and diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder, ADHD, learning differences, and complex clinical presentations. She is the Clinic Director of the Early Identification of Autism Clinic at Meghan Barlow & Associates and works with individuals from toddler-hood to adulthood.

Social skills groups are available for a variety of ages.

Evaluations are required for most services.

Private pay only.

Mercy Autism Services can provide services to children from birth through the age of 8 in the Toledo area. The program emphasizes evidence-based autism intervention, and will customize a program following an initial consultation and evaluation based on a child’s needs, incorporating communication, sensory needs, academic skills, play skills, socialization, and developmentally appropriate skill acquisition as needed.

Other services include:
Parent training
Functional Behavioral Assessment
School Consultation Services

Medicare and Medicaid insurance plans accepted. Children who do not qualify for the scholarship and do not have insurance coverage for autism services may privately pay for services or may apply for grants to cover the cost of services.

Yoga, Yoga Therapy, and Meditation practices for people of all ages on the spectrum. Services at studio cost $60/month, with classes meeting once a week.

Full inclusion preschool serving children age 18 months to 6 years old. Children learn side-by-side with typical peers. Speech and Language therapy is included in program, as applicable.
Summer Speech Camp is an additional program available for qualified preschool-aged children.

Music therapy at their facility, at home or in the community, facilitated by Board Certified Music Therapists. Therapy sessions can be one-on-one or in a small group setting, and is available for all ages and disabilities.

MTEC also provides music enrichment classes to daycares, preschools and kindergarten classrooms.

Pediatrician that specializes in dietary and sleep issues as well as allergies

An applied behavior therapy practice that services clients living in Cuyahoga and surrounding counties. New Heights ABA provides behavioral, verbal language, and social assessment and treatment to children ages 1 to 12 years of age who have been diagnosed with Autism. They provide services to children who have communication, behavioral, and socialization challenges utilizing principles of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA).
A Day Academy structure is available for children who qualify.

Their focus is a mild to moderate autism diagnosis focusing on building functional skills as well as addressing behavior and social skills.

They currently accept Anthem, and will soon accept Medical Mutual, United Behavioral Health and Aetna. They will participate in single case agreements for CareSource on small percentages of cases.

High quality speech and language services that take into account the whole child. They evaluate and treat children from infancy through young adulthood and design custom therapy programs to reach a child’s full communication and academic potential. They will also address family concerns and work as partners with parents and caregivers.

Includes guides, webcasts, workshops and information on services throughout the autism journey, from diagnosis to adulthood.

Dr. Parikh specializes in the evaluation, diagnosis and treatment of developmental delay, autism, neurodegeneration and metabolic disease.

Accepts Medicare, Medicaid and CareSource insurance plans.

Pathway Inclusion Center, Inc. provides quality child care, after-school and summer programs, and therapy services to children with and without developmental disabilities. Their programming is suitable for children and young adults ages 18 months-21 years of age.

Currently private pay, public assistance, grants, and scholarships are current accepted forms of payment.

Akron Children’s Pediatric Urology department diagnoses and treats children and teens with problems related to the genito-urinary systems. Services include laser, laparoscopy, lithotripsy and other minimally invasive techniques to treat diseases of the urinary organs in young girls and the urinary tract and sex organs in young boys.

Riding lessons, camps, and interaction on a farm for individuals ages 2 through adult with developmental disabilities.

Positive Behavior Consulting specializes in providing home, school and community-based ABA intervention services to children diagnosed with an autism spectrum disorder or other developmental delays. PBC serves individuals ranging in age from 18 months to 12 years old.

They accept insurance, and are currently in network with Optum Behavioral Heath and Aetna.

Present a Choice is an app designed to help a parent or caregiver quickly present a set of choices to a special needs or young child. Great for when a child is upset and having more trouble verbalizing.

Technology to assist verbal communication

Reach Educational Services offers a variety of services to children with special needs in Central and Northwest Ohio. The services they provide varies depending upon which part of Ohio your family lives in. Their focus is working with learners who have autism spectrum disorders and associated behavior and learning differences.

Reach clinic-based services (Columbus) provide special education and behavior analytic services (ABA Therapy) to students with autism between the ages of 3 and 21. They offer small group as well as 1:1 services. The clinic is open year round and follows a traditional school calendar with classes held Monday through Friday from 9:00 am to 3:00 pm.

In-home ABA services and county-funded services are also available.

Reach Services can be fully funded by the Autism Scholarship Program, Private Health Insurance, and via school district contracts. They do not accept Medicaid or CareSource.

Appointments can be requested online or at the phone number listed here.

Accepts Medicare and CareSource insurance plans.

Psychologist that works with toddlers, children and adolescents up to age 19.

Individually-designed private sessions targeted towards communication, social skills, and academic, psychological, and physical needs.

Cost varies.

Financial aid available.

Toll free phone number available: (866) 808-1455

Accepts Medicaid and CareSource insurance plans.

A company that offers inclusive movement classes using the Autism Movement Therapy (AMT) method for Autism and other special needs. The AMT method blends multi-sensory, structured movement and music experiences with positive behavior supports strengthening the left and right hemispheres of the brain to increase skills through the body and brain connection.

These classes are open to all special needs children. For current schedule, visit their listing on our online calendar.

Classes are given in various locations. Visit the website for registration and more information.

Sesame Street and Autism: See Amazing in All Children is a nationwide initiative aimed at communities with children ages 2 to 5. Developed with input from parents, people who serve the autism community, and people with autism, See Amazing in All Children offers families ways to overcome common challenges and simplify everyday activities.

Classes that teach American Sign Language (ASL) to all ages, from babies and children to adults. They offer classes for babies and children up to age 12, and offer workshops for adults in professional and social arenas.

Sign language is a great way for caregivers and parents to communicate with pre-verbal individuals.For children, it is a wonderful enrichment opportunity.

Hair salon designed specifically for children that has stylists specially trained to work with children with autism.

Two locations are available in Ohio-

Hudson:
89 First Street, Suite 203
Hudson, OH 44236
(330) 653-3353

Rocky River:
21609 Center Ridge Road
Rocky River, OH 44116
(440) 333-2226

Music therapy for people of all ages with disabilities.
Provided in conjunction with The Cleveland Music Settlement.

Completion of an intake form and an assessment are required prior to registration. 

Please call Solon Center of Arts at (440) 337-1400 for available days and times.

Provides Music Therapy services, music lessons, and music enrichment classes for people with special needs using Sensory Integration, singing, instrument playing, improvisation, songwriting, and movement to music.

Child, Adolescent and Adult Psychiatrist with clinical experience in Developmental Disabilities in the outpatient, residential, inpatient, and school settings. A collaborative approach with a focus on development of treatment that incorporates medical management and therapeutic interventions.

ReCharge is a FREE monthly respite ministry for families of children with disabilities who range in age from infants through 22 years old. Many volunteers help provide activities and supervision for special needs children while their families enjoy some much-needed free time. Pre-registration required.

Includes activities, food and fun, as well as a special needs Sunday School service at 11:05am. Many volunteers have a background in special education.

Eligible children are 18 months – 6 years of age with a variety of speech-language, social/emotional, behavioral and developmental needs. It will provide supplemental social experiences which are designed to encourage play skills such as initiating cooperative play, creative play, choosing independent play activities, completing chosenactivities, and encouraging the use of communication skills.

Pediatric Gastroenterologist

One of the world’s largest organizations using applied behavior analysis (ABA) in the treatment of autism spectrum disorder for all ages.

La ayuda española está disponible

Serves children through age 18, offering speech and occupational therapy services, as well as support for eating challenges.

Accepts CareSource, Medical Mutual, Anthem Blue Cross & blue Shield, Aetna, and SummaCare/Apex insurance, but only for OT/ST.

A grant-funded integrated research and intervention preschool classroom for children three to five years of age who have developmental concerns. The preschool incorporates components from TEACCH and ABA philosophies into its program.

Pairs teenage volunteers and children with special needs for social opportunities.
There are several programs, including social activities, respite services, parent support events, a sibling support group, an Asperger’s family support group, and winter camps.

The Golden Key Center is a charter school open to children with disabilities and places a special focus on children (ages 2 1/2 through 22) who require nursing services and are qualified as medically fragile, although they welcome all children.

They offer special needs and typically developing child care, before and after school care, School Aide/Paraprofessional training, Tutoring services, Consultation for school programs, speech therapy, occupational therapy, and medical support.

A music therapy program, offering music therapy services for individuals and groups of all ages and abilities. They also offer a music therapy and summer camp program for teens and adults with special needs. They primarily serve children ages 3-21 living with Autism and/or Developmental Disabilities. They also feel it’s very important for continuity of services even after our clients age out of the school system so we also offer a continuum of services to people 21 and up.

They have an office in Hudson, Ohio and provide in home services in Summit County, Ohio and the surrounding area.

They do not accept insurance at this time.

A one-stop training hub for people who interact with, teach, care for, and treat individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Online training for educators.

La ayuda española está disponible.

Dental Services for children and adolescents up to age 18 with a variety of special needs. The pediatric experts provide preventive and restorative dental care for children with special health care needs or behavioral issues that make it difficult for them to receive care in a traditional dental office, including specially designed chairs and equipment, private rooms for children with sensory issues, and specially trained staff.

The overall vision of The Learning Spectrum is to provide families with services designed to meet the individualized needs of children with autism and related services in and out of the school setting.

The Learning Spectrum provides OT, Speech therapy, music therapy, 1-on-1 Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), support groups, and educational services to with autism spectrum disorder.

There are four locations throughout Central Ohio (Columbus area). Visit their website for specifics.

App teaches addition and subtraction using a visual approach. The hands-on, count-as-you go approach is a natural extension of early counting skills, presented with powerful simplicity.

A variety of music-based programs and summer camps available for people of all ages on the spectrum.

Special needs preschool (ArtS N Play) for ages 3-7

Serving patients ages 2-21 with center-based educational and intervention services as well as home programs, outreach, and diagnostics. Summer programs are also available. Can perform functional behavioral assessments and functional analysis.

Accepts Ohio Medicaid insurance.

Partnership of Kristen Wilcock, BCBA and Michele Murphy, Assoc. Behavior Analyst

Locations are in Mansfield, Cleveland, Columbus, and St. Clairsville.

Pediatric occupational and physical therapists providing developmental playgroups to toddlers, preschoolers and school-aged children to enhance fine, gross and sensory motor skills that are essential for them to succeed in school and life. Their playgroups are free, 90-minute experiences that are based on a theme (things like ocean, bugs, snow, etc). These are drop-off playgroups.

Note: They do not provide pediatric occupational, physical, or speech therapy. Programming available for children ages 2 and up.

Registration for playgroups can be done on their website.

Offers vision therapy for patients at any age with diagnoses including:

ADD/ADHD
Dyslexia
Sensory processing disorder
Autism
Developmental delays and learning disabilities
Crossed eyes or lazy eye

North Royalton (440) 230-0923 | 10139 Royalton Rd Suite D, North Royalton, OH 44133
Beachwood (440) 230-0923 | 23611 Chagrin Blvd, Suite 385, Beachwood, OH 44122

This app focuses on helping kids read body language and understand emotions by looking at pictures and figuring out which person is expressing a given emotion.

TouchChat is a full-featured communication solution for individuals who have difficulty using their natural voice. TouchChat is designed for individuals with Autism, Down Syndrome, ALS, apraxia, stroke, or other conditions that affect a person’s ability to use natural speech.

Multidisciplinary diagnostic evaluations for children under 48 months old.

Offers school-based services, full evaluation and individual therapy services, a table games social group and a high school social skills program (by appointment).

Evaluation and therapy services are offered in the following areas:
Articulation and phonology
Phonological awareness
Stuttering/fluency
Oral language delays and disorders
Auditory processing
Early reading skills (decoding)
Reading comprehension
Written expression
Memory and learning
Study skills
Social communication

Accepts Medicare and CareSource insurance plans.

WH Questions is a multi-player game designed specifically to help kids answer and ask WH questions. Designed by a certified speech-language pathologist, WH Questions features over 400 WH opportunities to answer and ask real-world questions.

Customization allows the adult to tailor WH Questions for the child’s specific needs.

If you believe this app would be effective for your family (or student) but find it is too costly, there are opportunities available for financial assistance, including your local Board of Developmental Disabilities. Contact our Helpdesk for more information.

Appointments may be made online or at the phone number listed here.

Accepts Medicaid and CareSource insurance plans.

Accepts Medicare and CareSource insurance (but not CareSource Just for Me plan)

Limited new patient availability.

Wood Lane Adult Services provides access to meaningful employment, therapeutic programs, and activities to support the achievement of personal goals and promote healthy lifestyles. It is recognized on a national basis by CARF, Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities, for providing quality services to individuals served.