This guide covers topics and covers supports like vocational rehabilitation and transportation. It was created by youth and adult partners from the National Youth Action Council on Transition (YouthACT). It is written for adolescents looking for employment.

Dance Unlimited is a dance class for children of all ability levels. Classes includes stretching, various dance styles, balance and coordination activities, and self-esteem building. Fun props and popular music are used and moves are adapted for children confined to a wheelchair. There is a performance at the end of each session.

Classes are for boys and girls ages 4 and older.

This comprehensive online guide helps families make future plans for a family member with intellectual or developmental disabilities.

A guide, from the point of view of a parent, elaborating what needs to be done legally to help a child with ASD when they turn 18.

View Here

Children’s safety book written by Robert Kahn. Told through the eyes of children, this book teaches children how to keep themselves safe from strangers.

Children’s book written by Robert Kahn. Teaches children how to be smart and safe against bullying.

The top 20 online colleges ranked in this article show outstanding commitment to their students on the spectrum by cultivating programs that strive to ensure student success regardless of their level of functionality. To create this list, the authors used the schools’ websites whenever possible. In cases where a school did not provide the information on their own site that was required, they used the databases of both U.S. News and World Report and of National Center for Education Statistics.

Fun game that teaches about physics.

A concise introduction to life as a college student with Asperger Syndrome.

This video features Michael John Carley from the Global and Regional Asperger Syndrome Project (GRASP) and Kiriana Cowansage, an NYU Doctoral Candidate in the Department of Neuroscience as the primary instructors. OAR’s own Scientific Council Chairman, Dr. Peter Gerhardt, also appears in the video to provide information on the topic of “reasonable accommodations” in the college classroom.

An online book written specifically for adolescents who are newly diagnosed with an autism spectrum disorder. It covers several topics, including a definition of autism, how to learn to live with autism, what it means for their future, and how to self-advocate.

This book was written with assistance from the Administration on Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (AIDD), The Arc, Autism Now!, and the Autistic Self advocacy Network (ASAN).

9th Planet produces engaging social skill modeling videos and ready-to-use teaching plans for ASD teens and young adults. Lessons use a story thread about a young man (Tad Shy) from the 9th Planet who is learning social skills on this planet.

Teaching plans include include role play, improvisation, social stories and student production activities. Lessons may be used in individual or small group formats.

A young man on the Spectrum is the key actor and editor on the videos. Topics include a wide range of social skills, including personal space, empathetic listening and recognizing false friends.

Videos are produced by a creative team of teaching, animation and production professionals.

An inclusive community working to strengthen the individual and social needs of persons with all types of abilities. They offer assistance with leisure skills, employment skills and independent living support.

The Office of Special Education and Rehabilitative Services (OSERS) published this guide. The Office of Special Education Programs (along with partners in the Rehabilitation Services Administration) has issued this guide to advance efforts in ensuring that all students and youth with disabilities are equipped with the skills and knowledge to be engaged in the 21st century workforce.

This transition guide addresses the following topics to facilitate a seamless transition from school to post-school activities:
Transition planning: opportunities and programs
Transition services and requirements, as authorized by the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act and the Rehabilitation Act;
Education and employment options for students and youth with disabilities after leaving secondary school; Supporting decisions made by students and youth with disabilities.

Evidence-based, solution-focused services in educational services to schools and families. They offer academic tutoring, specialized reading programs, summer social skills groups, speech and occupational therapy and psychotherapy. They also offer ADOS autism assessment testing for children ages 7 and up.

They work with students that are pre-school until 12th grade. Their psychotherapists can work with adults as well.

A+ Solutions is a Jon Peterson and Autism Scholarship provider, and accepts private pay.

Rick Schindelheim is on the staff at A+ and counsels tweens and teens.
Other team members that can see patients with autism are Sima Brochie Weinberg, LPCC; Oren Meyers, PhD; Heather Baker, LPPC-S; Lauren Ehrenreich, MSSA LISW-S; Courtney Evenchik MA NCSP; and Jenny Wolinetz, LSW.

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.

This service is only available to students enrolled in Notre Dame College. In addition to traditional degree opportunities, the ASC offers a non-degree granting program that gives aid to future college success.

Non-residential center for independent living whose board and staff are comprised almost entirely of people with disabilities.

Offering advocacy, information and referral, independent living skills training, peer support, a recycled durable medical equipment program and assisting in transitioning individuals from institutional settings to community living.

Located in Fort Lauderdale, Florida outside of Miami, Nova Southeastern University’s Access Plus Support Programs, designed for students with ASD, provides support to allow them to succeed on campus, academically and socially.

Behavioral and Educational Consulting across all settings
– BCBA Independent Supervision
– Individual consulting across settings (for those outside of Cuyahoga County or when not eligible for CCBDD Services)
– ADA Programming and positive supports for businesses

Helping others achieve life outcomes.

Services are not covered by insurance, however they will begin accepting CareSource as of December 27, 2017.

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.

Recreational experiences that encourage children with autism and other disabilities to develop their confidence, independence and self-esteem while interacting with peers and being part of a team. Cost and location varies by program.

Programs include:
Cleveland Browns Adapted Football League – May-July
Basketball
Soccer – January-March
Baseball – August-September
Adapted Aquatics – year round

Customized social, recreational and educational activities in a unique outdoor environment at Camp Cheerful in Strongsville. Includes horsemanship activities, cooking, gardening and landscaping, exercise and sports, community activities, arts and crafts, and field trips.

Monday – Friday, 9 am – 3 pm, with an optional supervised social time from 3-5:00 pm.

In collaboration with the Cuyahoga County Board of Developmental Disabilities.

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.

In-home personal trainers servicing those enduring special needs and their families. All of the staff are certified and experienced with a few trainers having degrees as intervention specialists.

They work with individuals over the age of 18 in parts of Lake, Geauga, and Cuyahoga counties.

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.

An adapted Jazzercize class for people with disabilities, including people in wheelchairs. The exercises are low-impact and offer an opportunity for developing social skills while getting some exercise.

Classes are held Tuesday evenings.

Adolescent Healthcare Transition assists youth, parents, physicians, and other providers in the transition and transfer of youth with special healthcare needs from pediatric to adult healthcare.

Several booklets, articles and checklists help guide adolescents and their parents to help work towards transition.

This tool kit provides basic information on advocacy and negotiation skills. The information in this kit has been provided by experts in the field who have both professional and personal experience with advocacy and autism.

Psychiatrist that works with individuals with autism until age 24.

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.

Akron Children’s School Success Clinic offers families the expertise of developmental-behavioral pediatricians, speech pathologists and psychologists. The team assesses children in one clinic visit and offers parents recommendations at a follow-up appointment. The clinic is available for students ages 6 — 18 years. The practice has speech therapists, psychologists, and developmental behavioral pediatricians on staff.

A comprehensive assessment includes a medical-based evaluation, a family interview, a psychological assessment, a speech and language evaluation, a review of medications and a current Individualized Education Plan (IEP), if applicable.

One-on-one sessions teach individuals of all ages to have an enthusiasm to learn and to help them become more successful students.

Individual instruction for all ages in reading, math, study skills, college and graduate test preparation, and kindergarten readiness classes.

Akron Rotary Camp offers several respite programs throughout the year as well as summer day and overnight camps. They serve ages 6-adulthood. The goals are to increase camper’s independence and self-esteem; develop social skills; and to further strengthen the family unit by providing a safe, fun and nurturing environment for individuals with disabilities.

Weekend respite– Campers arrive on Friday evening and stay through Sunday morning. Throughout the weekend campers enjoy traditional camp activities, as well as special seasonal ones.

Adult respite getaway weekend– These are structured like the weekend respite program, but with the adult camper in mind.

Day respite– These respite groups provide a chance for children with special needs an opportunity to interact with well trained staff and engage in fun and developmentally appropriate camp activities.

School’s out respite– Developed to provide families with a place to send their campers when they don’t have school during winter break. Campers of any age are welcome.

Summer overnight camp– Children and adults with disabilities learn new skills, develop friendships, and gain independence through this one week overnight experience. Ages 6-17

Summer day camps– Campers enjoy traditional camp activities, while spending each night at home. Various locations.

Sibling summer camp– For one week the siblings of campers, ages 6-17, get to spend a week at camp. Typically developing campers will leave camp with a new appreciation for their brother or sister, and also find more ways to help their sibling with the challenges they may face every day.

Visit the Rotary Camp website or search their Event Calendar for current dates and rates.

An integrated sports program for individuals with or without disabilities where everyone, regardless of ability, is encouraged to participate on the field of athletic competition. Sports include bowling, football, cross country, basketball, track & field, soccer, bocce and golf. ATC is a sanctioned Special Olympics organization. Funding may be available to cover the cost of participation.

Visit the All-Star Training Club website or search our Event Calendar for current program schedule.

An alternative school option for students who are not successful in a typical classroom environment. For grades 3-12.

The Access Pass is a lifetime pass for U.S. citizens or permanent residents with permanent disabilities. This is a lifetime pass that allows free admission to those with permanent disabilities to the National Parks system where there is an access charge. Documentation is required to obtain the pass. The pass is available to individuals ages 16 and above. (Children under the age of 16 are permitted into National Parks at no cost.)

Information on AAPD’s paid summer internships for college students with disabilities in political science and information technology. Interns work for national government representatives and departments.

In addition to seeing patients at this address, Dr. Amin also works with individuals through the Signature Health, (formerly Connections). Please see the Signature Health listing for further contact information.

Accepts Medicare, Medicaid and CareSource insurance plans.

Provides an easy-to-use way for a nonverbal person with autism and motor planning issues to communicate with those around him/her. It has two, large, color-coordinated buttons…one for yes, and one for no. Press either, and you will hear a voice read your selection.

It also has the ability to create custom button pages which will allow the user to place custom text and pictures on buttons, record custom audio to play when the custom buttons are selected, and save up to 30 custom button pairs.

ABS is a center-based as well as a community-based treatment program for children, teens and young adults ages 3 through 22 with special needs. They provide classroom settings with low ratios for an intensive learning environment.

There are year-round programs including speech and language pathology services, behavioral counseling, art therapy, occupational therapy, music therapy, social skills groups, and afterschool 1:1 focus sessions. ABA-based education is taught in classrooms.

They also offer a full-year, full-day group education classroom with an individualized curriculum and BCBA services.

Accepts Medicaid and CareSource insurance plans.

Locations:

Dayton:
2570 Technical Drive, Miamisburg, OH 45342
Brenna Aschermann, Clinical Director
(937) 847-8750
brenna.aschermann@appliedbehavioralscience.com

Cincinnati:
4850 Madison Road, Cincinnati, OH 45227
Lori Watson, Executive Director & Founder
(513) 861-0300
lori.watson@appliedbehavioralservices.com

West Chester:
7413 Squire Ct, West Chester, OH 45069
Alicia Cachat, Director
(513) 847-4685
alicia.cachat@appliedbehavioralscience.com

Art therapy sessions in a real art studio for ages 6+, art supplies included in all fees

Four locations available: Fairhill, MetroHealth Center, Rivers Edge and Ursuline College.

Financial aid available

ArtWorks encourages students both to excel in school and to aspire to higher education. It is an arts-based job training and college readiness program for Northeast Ohio’s 10th, 11th, and 12th grade students.

Students are enrolled as paid apprentices to train under the guidance of master teaching artists, who mentor them in an art form while teaching them 21st century skills. The apprenticeship experience allows students to develop time management, professional communication, problem solving, and critical thinking skills, which are transferable to any workplace or college. Students also participate in workshops that focus on financial literacy, resume writing, financial aid applications, and interview skills.

All apprentices will have the opportunity to perform and/or exhibit their work for the public, and will leave the program with a portfolio that can be used when applying to college.

Sessions are offered both during the school year and over summer break.

This program supports college students with ASD in reaching their full potential. Varying levels of academic, social and residential support are designed to aid students in meeting their personal and professional goals.

Services provided include meetings three times a week to assist with development of these skills, a required weekly four hours of study in the program’s building, group meetings every other week, one-on-one discussions with a mentor to help the student adjust to college, and help with seeking employment following graduation.

To be accepted to the program, a student must have a diagnosis of high-functioning Autism, Asperger’s Syndrome, or Pervasive Developmental Disorder-Not Otherwise Specified (PDD-NOS), and should be able to provide supporting documentation.

Click here for their brochure.

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.

Asperger Experts is based out of Seattle, Washington and is a group that enlivens, empowers and educates people with Asperger’s, their families, and the communities in which they live. It is staffed by parents, people with Asperger’s, and professionals dedicated to serving and assisting others through sharing knowledge and building communities.

The core of their work focuses on planning, producing and distributing highly transformational courses, as well as creating and managing online communities for people with Asperger’s and their parents.

The group meets on the 2nd and 4th Tuesday of each month from 7 – 8:00 p.m. for folks 12 and up. Parents and or family members/friends may also attend the group.
Each week they explore a different social skills topic such as small talk and why it is important, reading vocal or body language cues for better communication, how to become an active listener and much more through using hand outs, role playing and discussion.
The group is free with free parking at the Quirk Cultural Center, 1201 Grant Avenue, Cuyahoga Falls, Ohio, 44223.

She can work with couples one on one as needed.

A grass roots, consumer-controlled organization consisting of centers for independent living, their satellites and branch offices, statewide independent living councils, and other organizations working on issues of importance to people with disabilities living in rural America.

A vocational school in Lake County

Stepping Stones and United Cerebral Palsy of Greater Cincinnati (UCP) combined services and facilities to become a single agency. Stepping Stones serves children, teens and adults ages 5 to 22 with an array of developmental disabilities including autism.

Stepping Stones works with schools to provide an alternative education for elementary, middle school and high school students on the autism spectrum who are not succeeding in a traditional school setting.

The program is designed to enable students to increase communication, social skills, functional academics, and functional living skills while developing acceptable behaviors so they may participate more fully in family interaction and community. The goal of the program is to provide each student with the tools to transition back to their community school district.

Three additional locations in Southwestern Ohio.
More than 85% of participants qualify for government or other financial assistance. Also, there are a limited number of scholarships available. They also accept Waiver funding, 3rd party funding and personal funding.

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.

Online discussion forum that reports news and includes submitted personal experiences on how best to deal with the daily challenges of autism.

This autism high school in Cincinnati offers low student ratios and an open door policy, so parents can observe and learn from the researched based techniques of teaching: Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) and the Teaching Family Model (TFM).

The school offers:
Low student to teacher ratios
Specialized academic programming
Music therapy and instruction
Speech-language and occupational therapy services
Art therapy and instruction
Daily integration of social skills and instruction and systematic application across settings
Transition to adulthood programming, including job readiness classes

The Asperger Initiative at Mercyhurst (AIM) is designed for students who, while exhibiting superior intellectual ability, face challenges in executive functioning and social interactions. They offer academic support, social support and counseling support, as well as vocational support.

This organization helps individuals on the autism spectrum with social groups and provides coaching for employment, independent living and other teen and adult related needs (ages 14+).

A monthly Asperger’s Adult Support group is available for adults with Asperger’s to socialize and discuss pertinent issues in their lives. Meetings are held at the Rocky River library and Beachwood library. The group also organizes occasional social events. They also host a monthly mindfulness event for individuals with autism. Each event will take place at a different location. Reservations are required to attend.

In addition, Autism Personal Coach offers a PARENT support group, dates and topics vary. Reservations are required to attend.

Visit the ASPIES website or search our Event Calendar for upcoming meeting dates.

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.

The program provides access services for autistic students that can lead to successful academic outcomes while providing educational opportunities that increase self-knowledge in the areas of executive functioning, self-regulation, social interaction, self-advocacy and career preparation.

Program components include regular meetings with a peer mentor, a Career Prep class every academic period with other ASN students, meetings with parents each quarter per the student’s approval, campus awareness training, and events with other members of the program.

Offers autism assessment and treatment. They utilize the evidence-based PLAY Project treatment model to support children within the family home. PLAY Project engages parents in supporting their child to build social and emotional skills and reach their full potential.

Ohio Guidestone also offers a variety of individual, group and family counseling options that address many behavioral health needs and concerns. Services are available at outpatient counseling offices, in many local schools or at other sites within the community, including the client’s home.

Link to several locations available for services.

Support network website that offers information, a blog, social network opportunities and online support for women with autism and their families.

Website that offers a comprehensive guide for transitioning teens to adulthood.

Advocacy group that organizes an online community of adults and youths with autism.

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.

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.

Dr. Diana A. Kyrokos serves patients with autism. Besides traditional methods, her team incorporates laser dentistry when applicable. They also offer sedation and anesthesia.

They can provide emergency phone consultation services after working hours and on weekends. They also have a certified therapy dog who, when requested in advance, can assist with a child’s visit.

A residential treatment program for children with autism. Their residential services are available for children and teens with moderate to severe autism and developmental disorders, led by a multidisciplinary treatment team. They can provide several levels of residential treatment:

Stabilization Critical Care — an alternative to a psychiatric hospital, available 24/7 for emergency mental health or co-occurring mental health/substance abuse issues serving youth ages 8 to 17
Intensive Treatment — for youth ages 11 to 18 who have acute crises and persistent and/or prolonged and pervasive behavioral problems
Monarch Boarding Academy — a co-ed therapeutic residential treatment program for individuals with Autism ages 8 to 21
Co-occurring Integrated Treatment — a residential treatment program for individuals ages 11 to 17 who have co-occurring substance abuse and mental health diagnoses
Transitional Living — a campus-based program for adolescents ages 16 to 21 who are preparing for independent living
Independent Living — a community-based program for ages 17 to 21 that teaches independent living skills

They do not accept waivers.

Set in the inclusive university environment of Concordia University of Wisconsin, Bethesda College is a two-year program designed to meet the higher education needs of students with intellectual, developmental, and other complex disabilities. It gives students with disabilities the ability to experience the full range of college learning and life and provides a “blended” model of instruction centered on the intellectual, vocational, social, personal, and spiritual growth of students. Our goal is simple: to prepare students for independent adult living.

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.

Also known as Betty’s Farm, they offer:

Friday Night Fun & Social Living Club
These group sessions include hands-on activities for families and individuals to learn and develop social skills. Funding for is private pay or Medicaid waiver.

The Day Program serves individuals ages 18 and older who benefit from the structure and support offered in a habilitation and prevocational training model. The program offers many opportunities for developing social and vocational skills through community-based volunteering, creative arts, fiber arts, woodworking, horticulture, social skill development and janitorial job training activities.

Summer Enrichment Program
This up to 6 week program is individualized to meet the needs of Extended School Year funding while also providing the recreational experience of a traditional summer camp.

Adult Day Habilitation Program for Adults coordinates volunteer opportunities in the community for adults with autism spectrum disorders.

Day Programming
Arrays of services are offered for adults to meet the individual needs of each person including habilitation and pre-vocational activities. Services are offered Monday through Friday.

Alternative school program for ages 12 – 22, Summer Enrichment (Extended School Year plus summer camp activities), adult day program, and community living services. Applicants must be a resident of the state of Ohio and must have an autism diagnosis.

Waivers accepted.

Residential services, adult day programs, independent living services, affordable housing, and respite for adults over age 18 with autism. Applicants must be a resident of the state of Ohio.

They offer a Social Living Club with weekly activities that includes non-residents.

The Summer Enrichment Program has been serving adolescents with autism for 18 years on the 80-acre Bittersweet Farms campus in Whitehouse, Ohio. Participation in the program is also offered through our Pemberville and Lima locations.

Waivers accepted.

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.

Veteran Blue Ribbon coach and advocate Sandy Ellis teaches the basics of boxing and some self defense skills. It is non-contact, but students will learn how to throw a punch, a jab, a right hand, uppercuts and hooks using special coaching mitts as targets. Boxing is great for self-confidence and is a great physical opportunity for those not comfortable with team sports. For teens and adults ages 15 and up.

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.

The Bridges to Adelphi Program offers individualized comprehensive academic, social, and vocational services that are designed to make that transition easier.

An online interest form is available at bridges.adelphi.edu/inquire

Bridges to Transition is a partnership between OOD and the Ohio Department of Developmental Disabilities/local county boards of developmental disabilities. This specialized partnership provides transition-age youth who are eligible for county board of DD services with an assigned Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor (VRC) and a Transition Specialist (TS).

See the website for a list of participating counties in Ohio.

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.

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

Butler County Challenger Baseball is a league designed to meet the needs of children and young adults from 5 to 22 years of age with special needs. It is affiliated with the Little League Baseball.

Practices Family Medicine

Accepts Medicaid insurance

A week-long camp experience for adults 18+ with developmental disabilities. Held at Camp Wise in Chardon, Ohio, campers participate in traditional camp activities including boating, crafts, dancing, swimming and climbing.

Camp Cheerful offers residential co-ed sessions in a beautiful outdoor environment for children and adults ages 7 and older with and without special needs. Camp activities are designed to meet the individual interests and needs of campers of all abilities, and programs promote self-confidence, independence and friendship in a beautiful outdoor environment.

Overnight weekend camp for children and adults with autism and special needs. Activities include sports, campfires, dances, arts & crafts, recreation, and nature and sensory hikes. There is a 4:1 camper to staff ratio, and a nurse is available at camp 24 hours per day.

Respite weekends are offered one weekend every month, Sept. – May for individuals 7 years and older, including adults. Registration deadline for each weekend session is one week prior to the start date of that session.

A grant is available for self-pay families to offset a portion of the fees. Camp Cheerful is a waiver provider: IO, Level 1 and SELF Waivers are accepted.

Recreational day camp program for children ages 5 and up with and without special needs. Activities include swimming, equine activities, nature study, arts and crafts, sports, music and an optional high ropes challenge course (additional fee). A unique outdoor setting is an ideal environment for children and young adults with autism (or others with special sensory needs) to enjoy camp activities while progressing with their IEP goals.

Week-long sessions (Mon.-Fri.) from 9am-4pm. Extended care is offered from 7:30am-9am and 4pm-6pm for an additional fee.

Horsemanship sessions are tailored for children and adults with physical, mental and emotional strengths and limitations. This year-round program is taught by instructors certified by the Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship Int’l. in a heated arena. The sensory trail in the woods of Camp Cheerful was designed especially for riders with autism.

The use of the horse and equine-oriented activities are incorporated to achieve a variety of therapeutic goals, including cognitive, physical, emotional, social, educational and behavioral goals.

A variety of programs and exciting activities for all ages including persons with disabilities.

Christopher Discovery Overnight Camp — Available for as little as one week or up to the entire summer. Campers stay in ramped, dormitory style cabins segregated by gender.
direct contact: (330) 334-2900

SumFun Day Camp — A multi-week summer day program based on school calendar for children with special needs, ages 5 though 21 who qualify for services through their local county board of developmental disabilities.
direct contact: (330) 376-2267

Community Respite — Participants must be 13 years old to attend. Available Friday evening to Sunday morning, one weekend per month. While most participants stay for the entire weekend, participants are not required to stay for the entire weekend.

Shuttle services are provided at various locations in Summit County.

Medicaid, IO Waiver, Level 1 Waiver, Family Support Services, ESY, private pay and other options are available.

Courageous Community Services (Formerly known as Camp Courageous) serves children and adults with developmental disabilities, ages 15 and up. The residential camps begin Sunday afternoon and run through Friday morning. They provide a residential summer camp program that fosters socialization and independence, while allowing campers to experience the outdoors.

Weekend respite camps include all of the fun of a Residential Camp packed into a weekend. Campers arrive Friday afternoon and stay until Sunday morning. During the summer, campers are welcome to attend either Residential Camp before or after a Respite Weekend (or stay the whole 2 weeks).

They accept Individual Options,Level One or Self Waivers and private pay.

For kids, young adults and adults starting at age 7.
This is a Christian-based camp that offers 1 week sessions, each week catering to a different age range.
Cost of camp varies by week. Partial scholarships are available based on camper and family needs. The camp accepts SELF, IO and Homecare waivers.

See website for detailed camp schedule.

An all-encompassing program that empowers Avon Lake students to participate in the community through project based learning, building lasting friendships and fostering success in their academic and IEP goals.

Serves ages 5 – 21, for a six week program.

Campers range in age from 6-18 and include children & teens with and without Learning Disabilities, ADHD, NLD, High-functioning Autism Spectrum Disorder and Asperger Syndrome. They come from Canada, the U.S.A. and around the world. Overnight camp is in Ontario, Canada.

Summer phone: (705) 389-1910
Summer Address:200 Kodiak Rd, McKellar, ON, P0G 1C0

Camp L.U.C.K.Y. (Language Unlocks Communication for Kids. Yes!) is offered to all children between the developmental ages of 2 to 18 years of age who need to improve their social skills and/or speech/language development. Campers may need to improve: eye-contact, sharing, turn-taking, staying on topic, maintaining a conversation, empathy, and/or the over all intelligibility of speech. They address IEP (Individualized Education Plan) goals if needed.

Each week has a new theme as the focus for the week’s activities.

Several day and residential camps with different specialties, including sports skills, arts, biking and science. Each of the six camp sessions is one week long. It serves children with learning disabilities, attention deficit disorders, Asperger’s Syndrome and behavior disorders from ages 6 through 18. Scholarships are available.

The Camp Nuhop Center for Experiential Learning also offers Leadership Training, Teacher Training, Respite Care and Teacher In-Service.

Office contact info:
404 Hillcrest Dr.
Ashland, OH 44805
(419) 289-2227

Weekly based residential and day summer camp for school-aged children and adults. Each week will have its own theme with a variety of activities and entertainment.

Respite camp is available during the school year as well.

Camps open to children in Lake and Geauga counties with developmental and physical disabilities. Day camp is located in Perry, OH while a residential camp is located in Burton, OH.

Limited scholarships are available.

They provide services for children with a variety of diagnoses which include physical, neurological, sensory and cognitive disabilities. The camp assists children with differing abilities, while fostering their unique talents and gifts in a creative and structured environment. Summer vacation can be challenging for kids, but at Camp Sunshine, they can truly enjoy a fun summer camp with their friends! Developed to maintain skills learned throughout the school year, Camp Sunshine encourages retention and growth of social, academic, and daily living skills.

An educational, training and resource facility for children and young adults with autism and their families. It serves students ages kindergarten (age 5) through age 21. The focus is on academics, behavior, social skills, communication and language development, independent living, and pre-vocational and community skills.

Clinic is expanding to offer treatment to children and adolescents, as well as adults.

Fees range from $5 to $50 an hour, based on a client’s income. Prospective clients are given a free assessment to determine treatment plan.

The clinic offers cognitive behavior therapy for people coping with trauma, anxiety, nervousness, worry, sadness, depression or loss. It also provides psycho-educational assessments for possible learning disorders and attention deficit hyperactive disorder (ADHD).

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.

Drama programs and workshops for children on the autism spectrum in order to support social and emotional well-being while providing opportunities to practice skills that enhance communication in real life situations.

Programs are for high-functioning boys and girls ages 9–18 years. Private instruction is also available.

FOR SUMMER 2017: Drop In Classes every Saturday starting July 8th, from 10 – 11 AM. Drop In Classes are designed to work around your summer vacation plans. They provide continuing students with the opportunity to keep up their acting skills, while giving prospective students the opportunity to try classes without signing up for a full 10 week session.

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.

Speech and Language Services include Articulation, Phonological Processing, AAC (Augmentative & Alternative Communication) and Social skills.

Consulting Services are available for ETR/IEP assistance and school observations.

This office is private pay only and accepts many forms of payment including cash, check, credit cards, and HSA/FSA (via check or debit card).

Champ Camp is an inclusive day camp for children with and without special needs who are 5 years of age (school eligible) through school age. Children and young adults enjoy a variety of engaging activities including music, arts and crafts, and nature study. Campers also enjoy special guest performers throughout the summer.

Offers orthodontics only.

Second Location:
4691 W. Streetsboro Rd.
Richfield, 44286
(330) 659-6249

Dr. Boester is not able to accommodate severe behavioral autism. He does not use sedation.

Available tutoring for children grades K – 12.
Randy has several qualifications in education as well as first aid and life support.

Children ages 5 (school eligible) through school age with and without special needs can enjoy all that Camp Cheerful has to offer in a day camp setting. Cheerful Day Camp includes all the activities of the traditional camp sessions, including swimming, horsemanship activities, nature study, sports, canoeing, and much more.

They support children, adults, and families who face abuse, grief, neglect, trauma, and mental health challenges. Specialties include early childhood, trauma, ADHD, mood/anxiety disorders, co-occurring disorders, sexual behavior problems, and adult services.

Services include: Individual, group, family therapy, and services for younger children. Respite, case management, intensive home-based therapy, assessments for children, 24-hour emergency services for clients, F.I.R.S.T Program for older adolescents and young adults with early onset psychosis.

If a family member is in crisis, you can text the keyword “4HOPE” to 741741 and expect a reply from a trained Crisis Counselor within five minutes. The message is confidential, anonymous and secure.

Several locations available throughout Summit County.

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.

This app creates daily schedules and waiting picture boards. It will help children complete daily routines (morning, day, & night), assist in understanding & controling their feelings and improve their waiting skills (taking turns and not interrupting). Appropriate both for use at home and at school, and it offers many ways to customize.

It includes an image library with 180 common images, each accompanied with audio. You can also add and record your own images.

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.

Churchill Public Adjusters is offering students who have a loved one with autism or a student themselves that are faced with the effects of autism a $5,800 scholarship through their foundation. The deadline is December 29, 2018.

Students with high academic achievements must meet two essential categories:

1. A form of autism diagnosed either in your immediate family or yourself
2. Current enrollment or acceptance in a college or university for a post-graduate level or undergraduate level by the applicant

In addition to the above criteria, a 500 to 1000-word essay must be submitted. Topics are listed on their website link.

CCA was formed with the sole purpose of improving the outcome for children with autism spectrum disorder and their families. They are committed to offering a variety of programs which address the communication, educational, social and behavioral needs of children with ASD, to assure that they are able to achieve happy, fulfilling lives.

They offer speech, occupational, physical and music therapy, as well as 1:1 ABA therapy. Social skills, academic intervention, and sibling groups are also available.

In addition, the CCA School Program incorporates ABA into their school programming. All programs are offered to students ages 3-21

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.

The KAP Circle of Support provides four major areas of assistance: private room, study tables mentoring and socials. The theoretical framework for KAP is Social Information Processing Theory and Executive Function Skill Development.

They provide educational, spiritual, pastoral, sacramental, catechetical, camps, social and recreational programs.

The mission is to assist people with cognitive and other developmental disabilities and physical disabilities to understand, develop and live out their lives as completely as possible within the Church and the larger community.

Camp Happiness is a summer program for children and young adults ages 5-21 with cognitive and other developmental disabilities, regardless of race, religion, culture or economic background.
They offer social and recreational activities, as well as skill enhancement. Participants also go swimming and on community field trips. Camp locations are in Parma and Wickliffe. Some financial assistance is available.

Their very popular Monthly Dance/Social offers persons of all abilities, ages 16 and over only, the opportunity to learn social skills and form friendships. Dances are held on the second Friday of the month, from 7-9pm. They take place at the OLA-St. Joseph Center, 2346 West 14th Street, in Cleveland. Entry for $3 dollars a person.
Call (216)334-2963 for more information, or visit their website.

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.

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.

Camp is geared for children ages 3-14 years, divided into groups by age.

Camp activities are a balance between zoo-related activities, games, cultural activities and arts and crafts.

Full-day and Half-day camps are available.

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.

This organization is part of the National Jewish Council for Disabilities.
They offer programs for teens and young adults with disabilities on a monthly basis, including socializing at a local synagogue, weekend retreats and holiday parties.

One-on-one tutoring in the student’s home. All subjects available, from pre-K through adult. College test prep programs also available.

Locations available throughout the US and Canada.

Akron Contact:
Tammy Esmaili, (330) 722-7890
PO Box 582
Sharon Center, OH 44274
tesmaili@Clubztutoring.com

CIP is one of the most comprehensive programs in the world for assisting young adults on the autism spectrum and with learning differences to succeed in college, employment, and independent living. CIP’s mission is to inspire independence and expand the foundation on which young adults can build happy and productive lives.

They offer:
– Full Year programs
– Summer@CIP programs
– Mploy: job readiness programs
– Workbooks and resources for parents

For individuals ages 16 to 26. Some services may be covered by insurance or public assistance. Families are encouraged to check with their insurance companies and with public assistance agencies to understand what coverage may be available.

5 Locations across the USA :
– Lee, Massachusetts
– Brevard, Florida
– Bloomington, Indiana
– Berkeley, California
– Long Beach, California
International students are welcome!

CLE can support students with unique learning needs and help them with college, independent living, career development, academics, and social skills. There are several offices available nationwide, all located close to secondary learning institutions.

The College Success Program for Students Living with Autism Spectrum Disorder provides targeted support, practical knowledge, and cultural awareness to students living with Autism Spectrum Disorder. It is designed to maximize students’ potential as they live and learn within a caring Christian community.

Offers a comprehensive list of two-year, four-year and secondary support programs for students with autism spectrum disorders.

An online guide for college-bound students about finances and budgeting, as well as how to apply for grants.

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

Practice serving Northwestern Ohio containing psychiatrists, counselors and social workers who have extensive experience in Child/ Adolescent and Adult Psychiatry.

Accepts Medicaid, Medicare and CareSource insurance plans.

Note that this resource offers a therapy that is not evidence-based. Milestones only promotes evidence-based therapies, and we encourage anyone who is not familiar with what those therapies are to contact our Helpdesk.

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.

A  Cleveland-area website  that fosters one-on-one friendships and relationships between disabled individuals, beginning at age 18.

In order to view the membership directory, one first has to contact Craig Matis, the website coordinator at:  matisc@netzero.com

Hattie Larlham’s Constant Companions program is expanding, growing from a day program with domestic pet care as part of social and practical skill development to a multi-faceted program, supporting an individual’s personal choices as a path toward independence. Types of activities include but are not limited to experiences such as:

• Health and wellness education via memberships to rec centers and gyms, participation in community exercise and cooking classes, and community wellness events
• Enrichment through arts and cultural attractions including local zoos, diverse museums, the Great Lakes Science Center, and music and theater performances
• Community trips to increase independence, such as grocery shopping, travel training, laundromats, computer classes, and trips to local eateries both to see behind the scenes and as customers

Tours are available at their newest facility in Mayfield Village by contacting the site manager Simone Wright Dotson at the contact information listed.

or simone.dotson@hattielarlham.org to be listed in contact information)

Serves individuals with developmental and other disabilities from age 10 through adult with day residential and day habilitation services with the main goal of self-empowering individuals.

Headquartered in Newark, Ohio, CSS currently operates in 17 counties throughout the state: Allen, Clark, Champaign, Cuyahoga, Franklin, Geauga, Lake, Licking, Madison, Mahoning, Medina, Montgomery, Stark, Summit, Trumbull, Tuscarawas and Wayne Counties.

They operate two adult day programs – the James Street Center in Newark and the HOPE Center in Tuscarawas County.

NEW PROGRAM: Community Stepping Stones Adult Day Services

Summer program that incorporates a structured environment with communication, self-help and socialization activities. Also includes leisure activities and work with gross/fine motor skills. Breakfast, Lunch, transportation and on-site nursing services are available.

Serves children and teens aged 5-15 with individual or group-based music therapy

Arts instruction and therapies inside local schools and on the Beck Center campus for individuals of all ages with disabilities. Sessions are offered on an individual, paired or group basis.

Limited financial aid is available.

Offers pediatric dentistry and orthodontics. They also offer laser dentistry and sedation.

Accepts Medicaid and CareSource insurance, but only if patient has a physical, cognitive or developmental diability handicap.

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.

Vocational and work training for high school aged students with disabilities in Eastern Cuyahoga County

Services children 2-18 years of age with a wide range of services, including: psychological assessment, applied behavioral analysis(ABA), speech and language therapy, social skills classes, and school services.

Year-round programs are available, either at home, school-based, or center-based. Call office to inquire insurance coverage.

Their Lorain County satellite office is located near I-90 and Route 611 in the Avon Health and Wellness Building at
38530 Chester Road, Avon, Ohio 44011

Accepts most insurance, including CareSource, and private pay. They do not accept state Medicaid.

Cara Marker Daily is a pediatric psychologist specializing in children with autism.

Dr. Heather Dukes-Murray, PhD specializes in assessing, diagnosing, and treating Autism Spectrum Disorders, learning disorders, ADHD, and mental health diagnoses. Also works with children and adolescents with mood and anxiety disorders, behavior issues, and mental health difficulties associated with trauma exposure.

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.

At meets, race distances, groupings, and competitive rules are adapted to meet an individual disabled athlete’s needs, and according to U.S. Paralympics rules. Ongoing Adaptive Swim Clinics are now taking place in: Wooster Ohio and Twinsburg, Ohio

Clinical psychologist specializing in the cognitive-behavioral treatment of anxiety in children and adults. She focuses on providing evidence-based treatments to children, adolescents, adults, and families, with a specialization in anxiety disorders.

Drive Team offers driving lessons for teens aged 16-18 with a performance-based Driver Education program licensed by the state of Ohio. Students advance through each level of the 46-hour program at their own pace. They are required to demonstrate proficiency at each level before progressing to the next.

Adult students are evaluated on a case by case basis before enrollment.

Clients entering this program do a three-hour OT driving evaluation that consists of:

A clinical evaluation consisting of vision, visual perceptual skills, physical ability, reaction time and cognition.
An on-the-road assessment in an adapted vehicle

To be eligible for the evaluation you must…
Be 16 years of age or older
Have a valid driver’s license or temporary permit
Be seizure-free or have a physician’s authorization that the seizures are under medical control
Have a physician’s order for an Occupational Therapy Driving Evaluation

They provide driving evaluation services for drivers with acquired disabilities. They evaluate the ability of the physically or visually impaired driver to obtain a driver’s license and safely operate a vehicle, including those affected by stroke, brain injury and other conditions.

Provides organizing and time management techniques for parents, adolescents and young adults. Hands-on organizing and coaching consultations for managing possessions, papers and time.

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.

Offers include respite services; speech and language therapy; and in-home respite care. There are also summer camps for children with disabilities in Alliance and Ashtabula.

For children younger than 3, Easter Seals offers speech and language therapy.

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

For nearly 50 years, Echoing Hills has supported thousands of families, friends, and neighbors through our outreach to people with disabilities.

Their programs align with their values: the right to choose, the dignity of each person, personal fulfillment in God’s plan and a relationship with Jesus Christ. They provide choice recreational, residential, vocational, travel and educational services throughout the State of Ohio and internationally.

They accept waivers, including the I/O, Level 1 and Ohio Home Care. Other options include County Board of Developmental Disabilities matching funds and private pay.

Sees patients beginning at age 5 through yound adulthood.

Performs cognitive speech evaluations only. She does not assess for autism diagnosis.

Assessment Services
Their assessments follow a collaborative model where clients and providers work closely together to determine the nature of the problem and how to assess it. We offer a wide array of evaluation and assessment services for children, adolescents, and adults. Evaluations currently offered may vary based on provider availability.

Autism Support Group
The autism support group is dedicated to offering support for individuals who are 18 or older and have high-functioning autism.

Counseling Services
Services are available for a variety of conditions and concerns.

Employment First is a national initiative that is a critical priority for the U.S. Department of Labor, Office of Disability Employment Policy (ODEP). It is to invest in systems that result in increased community-based, integrated employment opportunities for individuals with significant disabilities. This priority reflects a framework for a systems change that is centered on the premise that all citizens, including individuals with significant disabilities, are capable of full participation in integrated employment and community life.

To learn more about federal resources and agendas please visit the U.S. Dept. of Labor website.

In Ohio, Employment First means giving every individual with a disability the opportunity to work in the community alongside non-disabled peers. Ohio task-force states that every person has abilities, skills and talents to enrich the community and people around us. We envision a time when every working-age adult with developmental disabilities has opportunity to explore their career options and seek jobs that fit their skills and interests.

To learn more about what Employment First looks like in Ohio visit the Ohio Employment First website.

Transition planning is crucial for successful employment post-high school. The Ohio Employment First Transition Task-force has created helpful materials to guide IEP teams and families in creating a comprehensive transition plan.

To see resources and documents visit the Ohio Employment First website.

Offers league programs that give athletes with special needs the chance to play right alongside their typically-functioning peers.  All players make the team and after a couple practice sessions, the games begin! Each season features 5+ games with high school or college basketball teams. Location and cost vary.

Visit the Empower Sports website or search our Event Calendar for current program dates.

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.

They help families find the best, safest, and most effective out-of-home placements for adolescents and young adults whose needs are not being met locally.

They can help families choose appropriate:
Therapeutic programs
Wilderness programs
Schools for students with learning disabilities
Drug and alcohol programs
Programs for young adults (drug and alcohol or transitional living)

They have no affiliations to any program and never accept commissions.

Additional location in Columbus:
130 Northwoods Blvd, Ste A
Columbus, OH 43235
Phone: 614-231-1957

Licensed psychologist who specializes in testing, evaluation and interventions in addition to counseling and psychotherapy for school-aged children.

She is currently president of the Elyria-Lorain school psychology association, and works part time with Friendship In Teams (FIT) in Beachwood, OH.

Available to Jewish students ages 6-18 with various special needs. The classes will teach Jewish history, culture, holidays, blessings, Israel and bible stories. Hebrew will be taught by ability, and the program is run by special education professionals along with teen aides.

Offers behavioral health services to children, adolescents, adults and their families. Their services include applied behavioral analysis (ABA), adult behavioral health, children’s behavioral health, autism services and early childhood services.

Additionally, clinicians travel to homes, schools, foster homes, residential programs, child care programs, adult health settings and shelter programs.

The Ohio office also offers BCBA training and development opportunities.

They have 30 additional office locations throughout Pennsylvania.

Therapeutic riding and equine-assisted activities are uniquely designed for people with cognitive, physical, emotional and social disabilities.

They offer a variety of programs including therapeutic riding, carriage driving, hippotherapy, instructor training, and barn and classroom programs. They also have Gaitway High School and a Summer Camp program (separate listings)

This downloadable guide is intended to help students with ASD become better prepared for college life and academics. This guide addresses challenges that are both universal and unique to college students with autism by providing information, guidance, and resources that address them. Finding Your Way offers practical advice from autism experts; powerful narratives from self-advocates; and relevant resource tools. It is intended to help readers anticipate and improve their academic and social situations by advocating for themselves.

Arts education, performance, and advocacy

She usually offers services out of her office, however, she is willing to do in-home services/assessments with additional fees for commuting and time.

Counselors work with individuals, couples and families, offering therapy and counseling.

Laura Vajdich, PCC,ATR,CTS is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Ohio and a Registered Art Therapist, in addition to being a Certified Trauma Specialist with The National Institute of Trauma and Loss in Children. She specializes in autism and Asperger’s Syndrome, in addition to several other specialties.

Fit Mind accepts most independent insurance, including CareSource.

Food for Good Thought provides employment and transition services for individuals with autism. They have a college-based transition program, a gluten free bakery that employs people with autism, a massive summer program that services individuals with autism in high school and their employment services provides job-seeking help to those looking for employment in the community.

The majority of clients are ages 16-30 but they do serve clients that are upwards to 55-60 years old who are looking for employment in the community.

They take waivers provided to families by county funding, the Autism Scholarship and funding from the Opportunities for Ohioans with Disabilities.

Information on residential living models for people on the autism spectrum, as well as a list of successful agencies within most states, including Ohio.

Northeast Ohio’s only social skills program that offers all children a chance to make friends in a fun, movement-based environment. At FIT, children learn valuable social thinking, conversation and self-regulation skills; the tools for connecting with peers and forming friendships.

FIT CAmp is designed for campers aged 3-18 who need extra support developing social skills. Camp is held for 3 weeks in mid-summer.

The East side location currently offers all FIT programs.
East Side – Shaker Heights Location
1990 Malvern Rd., Shaker Heights, Ohio 44122.

The West side location currently offers Bridge to Elementary and Elementary FIT on Saturdays.
West Side – Rocky River Location
3035 Wooster Rd., Rocky River, OH 44116-4100

Year-Round travel camp for teens who have special needs and are high functioning, ages 16 and up.

A public high school for students who thrive in a non-traditional high school setting. Fieldstone Farm and Geauga Educational Service Center (Geauga ESC) have combined a learning opportunity with hands-on experiential learning opportunities with horses and the farm environment.

The school also offers a Transitional Job Training program.

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

Game On provides an activity and adventure-based learning program for children with high functioning autism and their peers. The school year program meets once a week for 90 minutes, and provides children on the spectrum and peer models with a fun, safe, accepting environment designed to provide them with the tools they need to appropriately interact with many diverse individuals and environments.

The school year is broken up into four quarters at a total of 24 sessions that do not conflict with holidays or breaks.

Game On Summer Camp is a nature-based day camp for school-aged children and teens that encourages social interactions while cultivating a connection with the outdoors.

They are a provider for Cuyahoga County Board of Developmental Disabilities (CCBDD), can receive dollars from NEON, and many families use funding from Family Services.

A child and adolescent psychologist affiliated with the UH Hospital system.

Dr. Geier accepts the following insurance, as well as private pay:

Aetna
Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield
Blue Cross Blue Shield
Cigna
Coventry Health Care
First Health (Coventry Health Care)
MultiPlan

Dr. Gen deals exclusively in orthodontics and has 2 office locations:

5827 Mayfield Rd.
Mayfield Heights, OH 44124

9964 Vail Drive
Twinsburg, OH 44087
direct phone: (330) 425-3573

Genacross Family & Youth Services provides residential treatment, parental support, behavioral health, day treatment, and homemaker/personal care services to children, youth, families, and adults. Long-term residental opportunity for children and teens with Aspergers and high-functioning autism from ages 6-21 accepted.

Student must be a resident of Ohio or Michigan to apply.

Waivers are accepted.

Gliding Stars offers adaptive ice skating lessons and equipment for individuals of all ages. There are several chapters, including in Ohio:

Gliding Stars of Northeast Ohio
P.O. Box 53
400 Aurora Commons Circle
Aurora, OH 44224
contact: Melinda Bednarik, Co-Coordinator
phone: (440) 477-3839

Gliding Stars of Findlay, OH
P.O. Box 1561
Findlay, Ohio 45839
contact: Cindy Bregel
phone: (419) 423-4536

Gliding Stars of Toledo, OH
P.O. Box 751
Sylvania, Ohio 43560-0751
contact: Bill Himmel, Coordinator
phone: (419) 304-4324

Website that offers information for preparing for and succeeding in college for students with disabilities.

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).

The Governor’s Council on People with Disabilities (GCPD) serves as an advisory council for the Governor and General Assembly on statewide disability issues.

Associated with the Governor’s Council, the Youth Leadership Forum is a five day leadership training program for 11th and 12th grade high school students with disabilities. Student delegates will learn about choosing a career, history of disability as a culture, technology and resources, and self and systems advocacy.

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

Serves students from K-9th grade

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

Dr Griffith is an ophthalmologist with a particular interest in taking care of both children and adults with developmental disabilities. He is happy to schedule visits for multiple family members in the same session. His areas of interest include pediatric ophthalmology, strabismus in children and adults, and cataract surgery.

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)

Offers behavioral counseling along with a wide variety of counseling services. They are located on the west side of Cleveland.

Accepts most insurance plans, with the exception of Anthem, Summacare, Cigna and Medicare.

Additional office locations:
Ohio City Office
3000 Bridge Ave. Suite 4
Cleveland, OH

Rocky River Office
20525 Detroit Rd. Suite 5
Rocky River, OH

Powered by the Notre Dame Academic Center, this tutoring program for high school or college students is available as a one-on-one tutoring program in a collegiate setting. The HAND program focuses on academic subjects and ACT/SAT tutoring only.

Over 37 professionals are available in a variety of subjects, and this program is appropriate for students with learning differences.

A flat fee of $1,125 gives students 4 hours of tutoring a week for a semester at the Notre Dame campus in South Euclid, OH.

Hattie Larlham is a nonprofit organization that provides medical, residential, recreational and work training services to 1,800 children and adults with developmental disabilities. The organization provides services to children and young adults at the Hattie Larlham Center for Children with Disabilities in Mantua, Ohio, and to adults at community-based homes throughout Ohio.

A team of medical professionals, including doctors, nurses and therapists tend to the complex health requirements of Hattie Larlham residents, whether they live at the Hattie Larlham Center for Children with Disabilities or in community-based homes throughout Northeast Ohio.

Other programs include:

The Hattie Larlham Toys and Technology Library is a free community library of toys and communication, mobility and learning devices adapted to meet the physical needs of children and young adults with developmental disabilities.

Foster care program for people with disabilities.

Summer camps through The Play Center at Hattie Larlham.

Offers a medical center and home for children and young adults with developmental disabilities.

A variety of schools, ABA services, and summer camps for children, teens and young adults ages 3 – 22 with ASD. Schools are broken up based on age and academic needs, and are offered in a traditional school setting or in a home-based program. Transition services are also available, as well as consultation and tutoring services. Summer camps are either Extended School Year-based or more traditional summer camp formats.

Haughland offers a range of counseling outpatient services as well, including group and individual counseling for peer support, social skills, life skills and management, behavior disorders, and successful mainstreaming.

Haugland Therapy Services is able to access county funding, Medicaid, Private Insurance, Autism and Jon Peterson Special Needs Scholarships, as well as private pay options.

Additional locations in Athens, Sandusky, Lancaster and Pedro/Ironton Ohio.

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 driver’s education and training for people with Asperger’s Syndrome.

Several locations throughout Northeast Ohio.

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.

Adult Day Support Program
A full day program serving adults with disabilities with many activities in-house and field trips into the community. They offer two locations:
Euclid Location
22741 Shore Center Drive
Euclid, Ohio 44132
Contact:
Catherine Rush
216-432-48140 x 333
rushc@helpfoundationinc.org

Northfield Location
10333 Northfield Road
Northfield, Ohio 44067
Contact:
Catherine Rush
216-432-48140 x 333
rushc@helpfoundationinc.org

Vocational Habilitation
HELP U Shred, HELP U Crew, and HELP U Scan offer on the job training. Vocational opportunities are paid a competitive wage and help individuals prepare for independent community employment. The program is offered in Northfield and Euclid.
www.helpfoundationinc.org

Residential Services
HELP is home to 140 consumers at 26 sites across Cuyahoga, Lake and Summit Counties. The facilities range from group homes to semi-independent living depending on the needs of the individual. Work with HELP and your county board service and support administrator to get more information.
Summer Program
A continuing education program serves children with intense medical and behavioral needs throughout the summer months to reinforce skills learned during the academic year.

Highlands offers a school and learning experience to children in grades 4-12 with autism. (They will be serving K-3rd graders in the near future.) Each student will be taught a specific curriculum based on their IEP requirements. Therapy services offered include Speech Therapy, Individual Counseling, Anger Management, and Individual Group Counseling.

In addition to a traditional learning environment, Highlands offers a Career-Based Intervention program. This program focuses on students identified as disadvantaged and having barriers to career and academic success.

Dr. Holmes is a clinical psychologist who performs comprehensive neurodevelopmental assessments, behavioral checklists, and behavioral observations. She provides therapy and evaluations to clients throughout the lifespan, but she has an emphasis on children, adolescents and families.

Licensed audiologist, serving infant to adult and elderly.

BREATHE is a program that provides respite care for children with special needs, over the age of 2, along with their siblings. All children will enjoy a supervised evening of food and fun, while parents and caregivers enjoy a night to relax. During the 3 hour event, children enjoy fun activities such as arts and crafts, games, yoga, therapy dogs, and special entertainment. It is staffed with doctors, nurses, and many professionals experienced in working with children that have special needs. Breathe is a peanut free environment and close attention is given to understanding the needs of those attending.

Breathe is held four times a year in the community room at Holy Angels between 6:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.

Questions about registering or if you need more information, contact Karen Sunderhaft at (440) 279-7617 or email: breathe@holyangelschurch.com.

Home Remedy provides an alternative for families who have found little relief from traditional therapies or are considering out of home placement. The treatment providers are Master’s level clinicians who are trained in evidence-based in-home therapy models.

The approach is an intensive, short-term, home-based therapeutic model that targets the specific challenges of individual families in the context of their home, school, and community.

Direct and immediate crisis support is also available.

Week-long programs offered throughout the summers and school breaks that teaches children with mental and/or physical disabilities how to ride a bicycle without training wheels.

There are several camps throughout Ohio. Visit their website to find the camp nearest you (the locations are updated often).

Some scholarship available.

Financial aid accepted.

For children ages 8-18

The International Center for Autism Research and Education is based at Case Western. Supporting the development of multi-center research programs at CWRU, Cleveland Clinic, University Hospitals, MetroHealth, and affiliated community resources, basic researchers and clinicians have united to form ICARE, garnering over $5 million dollars for new research into Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD).

IDEA House is a year-round homeschooling program located in Canal Fulton, Ohio. A year-round, K-12 non-profit school program, their students participate in a stage-not-age program that meets all state standards for graduation.

Assistive technology for what to wear in conjunction with the weather outside.

Information sheet on self-determination in school-based meetings. This guide is directed specifically for self-advocacy for teens.

InclusiveU is an initiative of the Taishoff Center for Inclusive Higher Education, committed to individualized and inclusive higher educational opportunities for students with intellectual and developmental disabilities. It is a comprehensive college experience for students with intellectual disabilities including individualized coursework, person-centered planning, professional internships, and social and extracurricular activities.

The Lawrence B. Taishoff Center for Inclusive Higher Education is committed to individualized and inclusive higher educational opportunities for students with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

A road map guide for families helping to guide transition-aged child towards their future living plans. A comprehensive guide that includes finding a home, support services and guardianship and advocacy.

Insight Learning and Wellness offers a Tae Kwon Do studio and numerous health and wellness services, including acupuncture, yoga and meditation. They provide holistic care services to children, adolescents, adults and couples.

They also offer confidential testing and therapy for children and adults with an integrative approach to treating ADHD, learning disabilities, autism spectrum, anxiety and many other conditions. They have a psychological evaluation team that includes licensed school psychologists, a speech language pathologist and an occupational therapist.

Insight Learning and Wellness accepts Caresource insurance plans. Insight is an Autism Scholarship provider and a Jon Peterson Scholarship provider.

Note that this resource offers some therapies that are not evidence-based. Milestones only promotes evidence-based therapies, and we encourage anyone who is not familiar with what those therapies are to contact our Helpdesk.

They provide adapted dance classes for people with special needs and disabilities in the Cleveland area and throughout Northeast Ohio. Their inclusive dance classes are accessible to students of all abilities. Students can participate from a wheelchair, with a walker or assistive device, standing with assistance, or independently.

Classes are open to children with disabilities (and their siblings) ages3 and up.

Classes held in Warrensville Heights, North Royalton, and Westlake. They offer a free trial class for potential students.

GI pediatrics and women’s health

This guide includes strategies to help youth and their families access the full range of support available to prepare them for successful transition into integrated, competitive employment.

A treatment and training center specializing in assisting individuals with autism and their families. They offer the comprehensive assessment, treatment and education of children with autism spectrum disorder using “The S.U.C.C.E.S.S. Approach”.

Services include direct care, parent/professional training, consulting, mentorship and support.

Guide from the National Consortium on Leadership and Disability for Youth on getting and making the most of an internship.

This app’s design is based on peer-reviewed scientific research. It’s funded by the U.S. Department of Education. iPrompts is used by special educators and therapists in the treatment of children with autism. It allows users to design visually based daily schedules for their children. The app includes a timer and voice and video prompts.

Theraputic and educational horseback riding programs

Accepts Medicaid, Medicare and CareSource insurance plans.

Licensed psychologists working with children, adolescents and adults.

They offer the following services:
15 different social skills groups ages 6-26 (ongoing — join any time)
Alternative Education Program- Perspectives Academy
Advocacy
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
In home services
Individual, group and family therapy
School Consultation
Testing

Also offers a weekly social club for ages 8-18. Parents can drop off and leave their child for 3 hours. Kids will be divided by age. Reservations preferred by calling the main number listed below.

Note that this resource offers some therapies that are not evidence-based. Milestones only promotes evidence-based therapies, and we encourage anyone who is not familiar with what those therapies are to contact our Helpdesk.

Additional Mentor location: 7200 Center Rd Suite 204, 44060

Insurance is accepted: Aetna, Anthem, Cigna, Cleveland Clinic EHP, Humana, Medical Mutual, Sumacare, United Behavioral Health, Oscar. Autism and Jon Peterson scholarship provider.

Offers disabled and at-risk youth volunteer service, vocational activities and social enrichment opportunities.

Serves ages 14 – 26

JFSA is guided by traditional Jewish values of communal responsibility and social justice. They offer several programs to assist teens and adults with disabilities with residential services, employment services, community inclusion, and family advocacy.

The Horvitz YouthAbility program offers volunteering and job training opportunities for disabled and at-risk youth and young adults.

Vocational Rehabilitation Services help people prepare for employment based on their skills and interests.
Adult Day Program offers group and individual day respite activities.

Ascentia provides comprehensive integrated services for individuals with intellectual disabilities, developmental disabilities and serious mental illness. Includes the following services:

Community Support Services
Family Advocacy & Support Services
Clinical & Therapeutic Services
Residential Services
Supportive Employment Services
Community Integration & Wellness
Adult Day Support
Horvitz YouthAbility Program
Planned Lifetime Assistance Network (PLAN)

Campers will experience the real workplace in a variety of settings including the Two Café and Boutique, the Two gardens, local restaurants, manufacturing plants, distribution centers, and car dealerships. This summer camp program that will be focusing on the following job-related skills:
Resume writing
Interviewing skills
Dressing for success
Networking
Communication skills
Customer service
Retail selling
Workplace ethics and behavior
Self-Awareness lessons
Self-Advocacy lessons
Self-Regulation lessons

An online guide to help direct individuals looking for community employment in the state of Ohio. There are downloadable tools that assist in defining the applicant’s skill set, as well as a tutorial on the job seeking process.

For more information about Employment First, a program through the Ohio Department of Developmental Disabilities visit their website.

Therapies and guidance for children with a variety of special needs from kindergarten through high school.

Services include: individualized assessment of students’ learning styles, teaching functional learning strategies, development of self-respect and self-advocacy skills, and creating home strategies for parents. School consultation is also available.

Additionally, Kaki’s Learning Solutions offers an in-school dog therapy program, where students work with therapy dogs while developing sensory integration, emotional growth, improved communication and social skills, and improved reading and writing skills.

A volunteer-run summer camp sponsored by Supplementary Assistance to The Handicapped (S.A.T.H.) a non-profit organization. The camp is for children with disabilities in Highland and surrounding counties of Ohio. The cam is held at the Rocky Fork Lake State Park in Highland County, Ohio.

For camp registration, you must call in a reservation at (937) 366-6657 during registration week. You will then have the week following registration week to stop in at the Hopewell Center and complete your registration paperwork.

For further camp registration information, click here.

Specializes in family medicine for teens and adults beginning at age 14. She is familiar with autism and has special medical interest in adolescents, women’s health and preventative care.

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.

The Kelly Autism Program offers educational support through Individual Education Plan assistance, classroom adaptations and tutoring, community involvement through active participation in community activities, social and leisure activities, job coaching, and parent support. They support clients ages 6 to adult.

KAP offers programs for Elementary, Middle and High School students. They also offer a college support program through WKU.

This is a private pay service, with some financial assistance available.

Family medical practice, including adults.

Accepts Medicaid insurance.

Provides services in adult, adolescent, and child psychiatry

Kennedy Academy is in Eastlake, OH and offers several alternative learning environments for children with autism spectrum disorders.

In the SAIL program, children with autism have access to a structured educational program that has language acquisition and social skills as the cornerstone. It serves students in grades K–12.

The LEAD classrooms provide an opportunity for students to feel a sense of belonging and demonstrate success and generosity on a regular basis. Emphasis is placed on students developing independence by taking responsibility for their decisions and actions. Students will participate in learning that is relevant and applicable to life outside of school while attending LEAD.

This is an informal and fun exercise class for ages 10-18 with peer volunteers that emphasizes movement and social interaction. Sessions are separated by gender.

They also provide a Special Needs Camp, which introduces athletes with special needs to the basics of multiple sports.

Visit the Kenston Community Education website or search our Event Calendar for current program schedule.

An 8-week teen social skills group to help teens navagate their social world. The group will work on the “rules” of a 2-way conversation, how to trade information, choosing friends, and how to use humor in day-to-day interactions.

All topics are adapted with permission from the PEERS Program, a manualized social skills training intervention for youth with social challenges.

The group meets Monday evenings, from 5:30-6:30pm for 8 weeks, beginning March 4th.

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.

This school has a program to aid students with special needs in college success, in addition to the traditional college experience. This special program is a non-degree granting program. In order to apply, the student needs to be enrolled in the college.

An Experiential Learning Program is also available, which includes Individual or Group Services, Self- Advocacy Training, and participation in the KSU Autism Diversity Program. For more information about this particular program, contact Lisa Audet at laudet@kent.edu.

Dr. Williams’ clinical interests involve all aspects of pediatric gastroenterology, with a special interest in GI disorders in children with autism spectrum disorders.

Founded and led by youth with disabilities, KASA focuses on developing leadership in adolescents with disabilities and educating communities about disability awareness.

School for children with autism, from kindergarden through 8th grade. The school is operated through the Summit County Educational Service Center. The school also offers a high school vocational program.

Children wishing to attend must acquire a district referral for admittance. It is a public school program and is not eligible for private pay enrollment.

App that helps kids learn about the importance of dental hygene.

Beginning late 2018/early 2019 KidsLink will be launching their KidsLink Connect Division. KidsLink Connect will offer intensive, insurance-based
Behavioral, Educational, Academic, and Social Language Programming for
children. Families will be able establish a center-based or home program (up to 35 hours/week) for a child with autism and/or other neurobehavioral disorders.

Programming will be led by a Board-Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) and will include assessment, program development, parent training, and consultation. The BCBA will be responsible for all aspects of programming including behavior planning, communication and language development, social programming, and improvement of adaptive behavior. Programming will be delivered by a skilled Registered Behavior Therapist (RBT). Therapy programs can be up to 25-40 hours weekly.

KidsLink Connect will be an Ohio Scholarship Provider, including the Autism Scholarship and Jon Peterson scholarships, so that families can access programming for both behavior as well as academic instruction.

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

Individual and family therapy services for teens with social deficiencies related to autism is offered. Counseling services for a variety of other issues, including women’s issues, depression, anxiety, PTSD, grief and self-esteem and bullying issues are offered for individuals ages 10 and up.

Assessments and counseling services available to help support children, teens, and adults.

She provides mental health therapy services to Westlake, Avon, Avon Lake, Bay Village, Rocky River, North Ridgeville, and the greater West Cleveland area.

Specialties include treating children and adolescents, providing assessments, moderate to severe mental health issues, spiritual and relationship concerns, and strength-based counseling. Jacob has also worked with families and partners of those suffering from a variety of issues. He is accomplished at assisting others gain coping skills, symptom and behavior management, and system navigation.

His treatment experience has covered an array of presenting problems including anger management, trauma, PTSD, depression, anxiety, psychotic disorders, domestic and sexual abuse (both victims and perpetrators), personality disorders, developmental disorders, autism, and spiritual issues.

The center offers ABA Services, social skills groups, and parent support sessions. There are also treatment consultations, which can help promote treatment progress and generalization of skills. They will work starting with children 1 yr old through age 22.

Knapp Center accepts Caresource Medicaid for evaluations/assessments only.

Koinonia offers residential services, day programs, and employment services for adults with disabilities in Northeast Ohio.

They offer 21 licensed group homes, over 50 supported living arrangements, transportation services, and shared living options all provided in safe and healthy settings. Koinonia provides services in Cuyahoga, Geauga, Lake, Lorain, Medina, and Summit Counties.

Koinonia Enterprises offers individuals career services that include a comprehensive curriculum that focuses on the individual’s path to employment from self-discovery of skills and talents to career exploration to future career advancements.

Koinonia is supported through Medicaid, funding from the Cuyahoga County Board of Developmental Disabilities, private pay and donations.

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

Accepts Medicaid, Medicare and CareSource insurance plans.

Supports individuals over the age of 18 who are eligible for services provided by the Hamilton County (Ohio) Board of Mental Retardation and Developmental Disabilities. They have training programs for independence, apartments, commuinity-supported living assistance and home ownership programs.

Adaptive programming available for people with special needs.

Camp is designed for children pre-school age (4) to 18+ who have special learning needs, including mental and physical challenges, learning disabilities, autism, and ADHD.

Each day is dedicated to academics, sensory motor development, social skills development, and sports camp. In addition they focus on IEP and ESY goals and work with school districts to make sure skills are developed.

Ages 4 – 18

Offers speech and language services for both children and adults using evidence-based assessment and treatment methods.

Performs speech and social skills evaluations.

This college and post-secondary institute offers innovative learning programs with students with cognitive disabilities.

In addition to traditional four-year and two-year college degree programs, this school offers a program aiding in college success. In order to apply for this special program, the student needs to be enrolled in the college.

An independent, coeducational school serving students with learning differences and attention deficits. Lawrence School is one of only three independent schools in the state of Ohio to exclusively serve bright students with learning differences, and one of only a handful in the country to offer a stand-alone Upper School serving this population.

The Lower School (grades 1-6) is located in Broadview Heights, OH.
The Upper School (grades 7-12) is located in Sagamore Hills, OH.

The state-of-the-art Lerner School for Autism is the centerpiece of the 20,000-square-foot Debra Ann November Wing at the Hospital for Rehabilitation Campus. This chartered, non-public day school, certified by the state of Ohio, serves students from diagnosis to age 22. Staff includes:

Board-certified behavior analysts
Certified intervention specialists
Classroom behavior therapists
Pediatric psychologists
Speech/language pathologists

Their educational program emphasizes research-supported autism intervention, based on the philosophy and interventional techniques of ABA. The Lerner School provides:

Full-day, year-round programs
Highly individualized programs
Low student-to-staff ratio
Strong parental involvement
Tiered levels of instruction

A free AAC talker app for Android which supports communication in all areas of life and therefore providing a voice to everyone.
Suitable for:
• autism symptoms and Asperger syndrome
• aphasia
• speech apraxia
• articulation/phonological disorder
• Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS)
• Motor Neuron Disease (MND)
• Cerebral palsy
• Down syndrome

Accepts Medicare, Medicaid and CareSource insurance plans.