Resources
Navigating Resources
Once you have a diagnosis, there are many resources available to help build on an individual’s strengths and independence. By identifying these areas, it is our goal to help you navigate the recommendations you receive. First, consider the following:
Benefits/Finances
Medicaid: You or your family member may qualify for MO HealthNet coverage. There are different financial qualifications when a disability is involved. The best way to know if you qualify for any type of Medicaid is to apply at
Social Security: There are many hidden expenses associated with a disability. Supplemental Security Income (SSI) provides monthly payments to people with disabilities who have little or no income or resources.
MO ABLE: A STABLE account through MO ABLE is a way for eligible Missourians to save for qualified expenses and invest for future needs, without their benefits being impacted.
Disability Information
Missouri Department of Mental Health: A person can apply for services through the Department of Mental Health’s Springfield Regional Office if they have a qualifying Intellectual and/or Developmental Disability. To see if you or family member is eligible
Missouri Autism Project: Funding available regionally for autism programs and services for individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and families.
Missouri Home and Community Based Waivers: The Missouri Department of Mental Health's Division of Developmental Disabilities (Division of DD) administers four Medicaid Home and Community Based (HCB) Waiver programs for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
Assistive Technology
Missouri Assistive Technology: This service increases access to and acquisition of assistive technology and related services. This technology can increase independence for individuals in their home, work and community.
Visual Supports: Visual supports help individuals with autism and ADHD by providing clear information and consistent cues, aiding in routine understanding and reducing anxiety. They also enhance focus and information processing.
empower: abilities: Vision and hearing aid clinics, AT lab, and adaptive equipment and home modification services available to individuals and their families.
Education/Transition
Early Childhood:
First Steps: If your child is under three years old and experiencing any delays, please contact First Steps. To learn more about what First Steps has to offer visit
Education Supports:
DESE: Your child may be eligible for support or services through your local school system from ages 3 to 21.
Parents As Teachers: A free program for families of children birth thru kindergarten to help caregivers connect with their child’s early development and build a lifetime foundation for academic success.
MPACT: To learn more about the special education and your student's rights visit MPACT online at
Transition:
Guardianship Alternatives: When evaluating guardianship decisions, it is important to recognize that alternatives to full guardianship exist, such as a person retaining their rights and using supported decision-making.
Vocational Rehabilitation: Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) helps eligible people with disabilities obtain, maintain or advance in employment.
After the Diagnosis
- Follow up on your therapy referrals made by your diagnostic team.
- Contact your local school district for Special Education Services.
- Connect with local support groups.
We recognize families need reliable information. Our team has collected a few of our favorite resources to share with our patients and family members. Feel free to contact us with any questions you may have.
autismspeaks.org/tool-kit/100-day-kit-young-children
autismspeaks.org/tool-kit/100-day-kit-school-age-children
Children’s National Autism Center. https://www.childrensnational.org/get-care/departments/autism-behavioral-consult/visual-supports-and-resources
cdc.gov/ncbddd/actearly (Center for Disease Control - Learn the Signs. Act Early)
Missouri Community Options & Resources https://mocor.mo.gov/developmental-disability.htm
Missouri Family to Family https://mofamilytofamily.org/missouri-resources/
nichd.nih.gov (National Institute of Health and Child Development)
Other Supports for Individuals without Medicaid https://mocor.mo.gov/not-on-medicaid.htm
PBIS World: https://www.pbisworld.com/tier-2/social-stories/
teacch.com (Teacch Autism Program)
teacch.com/bfast/ages-and-stages/ (Black Families and Providers Accessing Services Together)
