Your primary focus is delivering high-quality, evidence-based therapy. Yet, so much of your time can be consumed by non-clinical tasks, like helping families find the right local services. Coordinating care with schools, speech therapists, and OTs requires a deep understanding of the local provider network. We’ve done the research for you. Think of this article as a practical tool to streamline your workflow and enhance the support you offer. It provides a clear, actionable overview of the key autism resources Lakewood Colorado provides, from initial assessments to community support groups, allowing you to empower families without sacrificing your clinical time.
Key Takeaways
Guide families to start with a formal evaluation: This initial diagnosis is the key that unlocks access to essential services, from state-funded early intervention programs for toddlers to school-based support through an Individualized Education Program (IEP).
Act as the central coordinator for care: A child's success depends on a unified team. By facilitating communication between ABA, speech, and occupational therapists, you can help create a cohesive treatment plan where all providers work toward shared goals.
Connect families with financial and community resources: Help parents navigate funding options like Health First Colorado (Medicaid) and state waivers, and point them toward local organizations like the Autism Society of Colorado for invaluable peer support and community connection.
Finding Autism Services in Lakewood
Navigating the world of autism services can feel like a huge undertaking, but Lakewood and the surrounding Denver area have a strong network of providers and resources. The key is knowing where to look and what questions to ask. Whether you're helping a family find services for the first time or coordinating with new providers, this guide will give you a clear starting point. Think of it as your local cheat sheet for connecting families with the support they need to thrive.
What Services Are Available?
Colorado provides a variety of state-funded programs and therapies for children with autism. For families with young children under three, a great first step is looking into Early Intervention Colorado. These services are provided at no cost to families and can include speech, occupational, and ABA therapy. For school-aged children, Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy is widely available and helps with improving social skills, communication, and daily living skills. Many of these essential services can be paid for through Health First Colorado (the state's Medicaid program), special waivers, and other state-funded initiatives, making care more accessible for families.
Who Are the Key Service Providers?
Lakewood is home to several highly-regarded autism centers that offer comprehensive care. For example, Soar Autism Center provides a range of services under one roof, including Developmental Behavioral Therapy, Occupational Therapy, and Speech Therapy, which simplifies care coordination for families. Another major provider in the area is the Center for Autism and Related Disorders (CARD), which has a long history of offering skill-based, one-on-one ABA therapy in a center-based setting. These are just a couple of examples, but they represent the type of dedicated, multi-disciplinary support available right here in the community.
How to Handle Insurance and Financial Support
One of the biggest questions families have is how they will pay for care. The good news is that ABA therapy is widely considered a medically necessary treatment, which means most private health insurance plans offer coverage. In Colorado, ABA is also covered by Health First Colorado, ensuring that more children have access to this life-changing therapy. When a family is just starting out, it’s helpful to encourage them to call their insurance provider directly to confirm the specifics of their coverage, including any co-pays, deductibles, or authorization requirements. This proactive step can prevent surprises and help them plan financially.
A Breakdown of Essential Therapies
As a BCBA, you know that creating a comprehensive support system is key to a child's success. While ABA is a cornerstone of treatment, integrating other therapies can address a wider range of developmental needs. Understanding these essential services helps you coordinate care more effectively, ensuring your clients have a well-rounded plan. This holistic view not only benefits the child but also strengthens your position as a central, knowledgeable figure for the families you support. Here’s a look at the core therapies that often complement your work.
Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) Therapy
You’re the expert here, but it’s always helpful to frame ABA as the foundational, evidence-based practice it is. As the Center for Autism and Related Disorders (CARD) highlights, early and intensive intervention is a game-changer for a child's development, especially for those between two and four years old. Your work in ABA provides the structured, data-driven approach necessary to build critical skills and reduce challenging behaviors. When you coordinate with other providers, you can ensure that the principles of behavior analysis are consistently applied, creating a unified and effective therapeutic environment for the child across all settings.
Speech and Language Services
Communication is at the heart of connection, and speech therapy is vital for helping children with autism find their voice. This therapy goes beyond just talking; it encompasses gestures, body language, and the use of communication devices. For families in Colorado, accessing these services is often manageable through various channels. As noted by Bright Pathways ABA Therapy, support can come from Early Intervention Colorado, Medicaid, private insurance, or directly through school programs for children with an Individualized Education Program (IEP). Collaborating with a speech-language pathologist can create powerful outcomes, aligning communication goals with your behavioral objectives.
Occupational Therapy
Occupational therapy (OT) is all about building independence in daily life. OTs focus on the practical skills kids need, from getting dressed and using utensils to playing with toys. This therapy is especially effective for improving fine motor skills and addressing the sensory processing issues that many children with autism experience. Like speech therapy, OT services are frequently covered by Medicaid and private insurance. They can also be accessed through public schools if the child has an IEP or a 504 Plan. Working alongside an OT can provide you with valuable insights into a child’s sensory needs, helping you adapt your own interventions for better results.
Physical Therapy Programs
While not always the first therapy that comes to mind, physical therapy (PT) plays an important role in a child's overall development. PT programs are designed to address gross motor skills, helping children improve their coordination, balance, and strength. These activities are not just about physical health; they also build confidence and enable fuller participation in social and recreational activities. For many children with autism, strengthening these foundational physical abilities can lead to greater engagement in other therapies and daily routines. This is another area where a collaborative approach can ensure a child is receiving comprehensive support for their physical well-being.
Psychological Care Services
Addressing a child's emotional and behavioral health is a critical piece of the puzzle. Psychological care provides essential support for both the child and their family, offering strategies to manage anxiety, regulate emotions, and navigate social challenges. Local providers like the Soar Autism Center in Lakewood offer these comprehensive psychological services, equipping families with the tools they need to foster their child's emotional development. As a BCBA, partnering with a psychologist can create a powerful alliance, ensuring that both the behavioral and emotional needs of the child are being met with expertise and care.
The First Steps: Assessment and Early Intervention
Navigating the initial stages of getting a diagnosis and starting therapy can feel overwhelming for families. As a BCBA, you can provide a clear, supportive roadmap for them. The journey begins with a formal assessment, which then opens the door to early intervention services. In Colorado, there's a structured system to help families access the care their child needs, from state-run programs for toddlers to school-based support for older kids. Guiding parents through these first steps with confidence sets a positive tone for the entire therapeutic relationship and ensures children get timely, effective support.
What to Expect During an Evaluation
When you're explaining the evaluation process to parents, it helps to demystify it. The first step is often a developmental screening during a regular pediatrician visit. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends screenings for all children at 9, 18, and 24 or 30 months. This is a quick check where the doctor might ask the parents some questions or play with the child to see if they are meeting basic developmental milestones. If the screening shows any potential delays, the doctor will refer the family for a more comprehensive developmental evaluation. This isn't a test the child can pass or fail; it's simply a way to get a clearer picture of their unique needs.
How to Work with Community Centered Boards
For children under three, the best starting point in Colorado is the early intervention system. You can direct families to contact their local Community Centered Board (CCB). These organizations are the gateway to Early Intervention Colorado, a program that provides free services like speech, occupational, and ABA therapy to eligible toddlers. Once a family connects with their CCB, the board will conduct an assessment to understand the child's needs. Based on that evaluation, they will work with the family to create an Individualized Family Service Plan (IFSP) that outlines the specific therapies and supports the child will receive. This is a crucial, state-supported first step for early-years care.
Your Guide to Accessing Services
Once a child has a formal autism diagnosis, families can access more specialized services like ABA therapy. You can help parents understand that ABA is a highly effective therapy designed to improve social, communication, and learning skills. In Colorado, ABA is covered by Health First Colorado (the state's Medicaid program) and most private insurance plans. To get started, families will typically need a referral from their child's doctor along with the formal diagnostic report. Helping parents gather this paperwork and submit it to their insurance provider is a concrete way you can support them in securing consistent, high-quality care for their child.
Finding Age-Specific Programs
As children reach school age, the support system shifts but remains robust. Under the federal Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), public schools are required to provide special education services to eligible students with autism. This means that once a child is enrolled in school, their Individualized Education Program (IEP) can include services like speech therapy, occupational therapy, and sometimes even school-based ABA. For families with children aged three and older, the local school district becomes a primary partner in their child's care team. You can help them prepare for IEP meetings and advocate for the services that will help their child succeed in the classroom.
Securing Educational Support
Navigating the educational system is a critical step in creating a comprehensive support structure for a child with autism. As a BCBA, you can empower families by helping them understand their rights and the different pathways available, from public school programs to homeschooling. Each option offers unique benefits, and the right choice depends entirely on the child's specific needs and the family's circumstances. Your role is to provide the information and support they need to advocate effectively for their child's education and secure an environment where they can truly thrive.
Special Education in Public Schools
Public schools are a cornerstone of educational support for many families. Thanks to the federal Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), public schools in Colorado are legally required to provide special education services to eligible children with autism. This isn't just about classroom placement; it's about providing a suite of services tailored to the child's needs. These services can include speech therapy, occupational therapy, and sometimes even Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy integrated into the school day. The goal is to ensure every child has access to a free and appropriate public education in the least restrictive environment possible, giving them the tools they need to succeed alongside their peers.
How to Approach IEPs and 504 Plans
To access special education services, the journey begins with a formal request for an educational evaluation from the child’s school. If the evaluation determines the child is eligible, the school will work with the parents to create an Individualized Education Program (IEP). An IEP is a legally binding document that outlines the child's learning goals and the specific services and support the school will provide. For students who may not need specialized instruction but require accommodations, a 504 plan can be a great alternative. You can help families prepare for these meetings by organizing documentation and clarifying which accommodations and modifications would be most beneficial for their child.
Exploring Private School Options
For some families, a private school setting may be a better fit. While this path involves tuition, many private schools in the Lakewood area specialize in supporting students with autism. These institutions often feature smaller class sizes, highly trained staff, and a curriculum specifically designed to meet the unique learning profiles of their students. This tailored approach can provide a focused and nurturing environment that helps children build confidence and academic skills. The Autism Society of Colorado is an excellent resource for families looking to explore local private schools that have programs for children on the spectrum.
Resources for Homeschooling
Homeschooling offers the ultimate customized learning environment and is a viable and respected option for many families in Colorado. This path allows parents to tailor every aspect of their child's education, from curriculum and teaching methods to the daily schedule, ensuring it aligns perfectly with their child's strengths, challenges, and interests. It can be an empowering choice for families who want to be deeply involved in the educational process. The state provides guidance for families who choose this route, and you can find helpful information on the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment website to get started.
Building a Community: Where to Find Local Support
As a BCBA, you know that effective therapy extends beyond your sessions. Connecting families with a strong, local support system is a critical part of creating lasting, positive change. When families feel supported, they are better equipped to partner with you in their child’s care. Lakewood offers a variety of resources that can help build this essential community network. Guiding families to these organizations not only provides them with practical help but also fosters a sense of belonging and shared experience, which is invaluable on their journey. Here’s a look at some of the key places to find that support right here in the Lakewood area.
Autism Centers in Lakewood
For families seeking a dedicated, physical space for growth and support, local centers are a fantastic starting point. The Soar Autism Center in Lakewood, for example, provides a structured environment designed to help children with autism thrive. Located in a business park that allows for calming walks in nature, it offers a therapeutic setting that considers the whole child. These centers often become a hub for families, providing not just therapy but also a place to connect with others who understand their experiences. As a provider, knowing the atmosphere and offerings of local centers allows you to make more personalized and effective recommendations to the families you serve.
Local Community Resources
Beyond individual therapy centers, broader community organizations offer a wealth of information and support. The Autism Society of Colorado (ASC) is a vital resource for families across the state. Their mission is centered on improving the lives of autistic individuals and their families by connecting them with necessary resources and advocating for their needs. A key focus for the ASC is helping autistic individuals find meaningful employment and succeed in their careers. For the families you work with, the ASC can be a go-to source for information, advocacy, and a sense of connection to the larger autism community in Colorado, making it an excellent resource to have in your back pocket.
Services for Family Support
Navigating the logistics of care can be one of the biggest stressors for families. Fortunately, Colorado provides a range of support services for children with autism, including ABA therapy and other crucial treatments. A significant piece of this support is financial. Many of these services can be funded through Medicaid, special state waivers, and other programs designed to ease the financial burden on families. Helping parents understand and access these funding streams can make a world of difference, ensuring their child receives consistent, high-quality care without interruption. Being knowledgeable about these options positions you as an even more valuable partner in their child’s treatment.
Connecting with Parent Support Groups
No one understands the journey of raising a child with autism better than other parents on the same path. Peer support is a powerful tool for building resilience and sharing practical advice. The Autism Society of Colorado facilitates support groups where parents and caregivers can speak openly in a safe, understanding environment. These groups offer a space to share triumphs and challenges, ask questions, and simply feel less alone. Encouraging families to join a support group can provide them with an emotional outlet and a network of peers that complements the clinical support you provide, strengthening their overall support system and empowering them as caregivers.
Recreational and Social Programs
Therapy and support are essential, but so are fun and friendship. Children with autism and their families need opportunities to connect, relax, and enjoy life together. The Autism Society of Colorado frequently hosts local events designed for just that purpose. These recreational and social programs offer a low-pressure environment for families to meet, for children to practice social skills in a natural setting, and for everyone to build community. From family picnics to sensory-friendly activities, these events help weave a social fabric that supports not just the child but the entire family unit. Recommending these programs can help your clients generalize skills and build meaningful relationships outside of therapy.
Coordinating Care and Creating a Treatment Plan
Once you have a clearer picture of the necessary therapies and educational support, the next step is to bring them all together into a unified strategy. As a BCBA, this is where you can truly guide a family, helping them weave individual services into a cohesive plan that supports their child from every angle. It’s about moving from a list of appointments to a collaborative, goal-oriented approach where every provider is on the same page, working toward the same positive outcomes for the child. This coordination is the foundation of an effective and holistic treatment journey.
How to Coordinate Multiple Services
Juggling ABA, speech therapy, and occupational therapy can feel like a logistical puzzle. The key is to view yourself as the central point of contact who helps the family manage these moving parts. In Colorado, families have access to a variety of services, and it’s helpful to remind them that support is available to make these treatments accessible. Many of these therapies can be funded through Medicaid, waivers, and other state programs. Your role can involve helping families understand their options and ensuring that the goals of each therapy complement one another, creating a seamless support system for the child.
Building a Comprehensive Treatment Plan
A truly effective treatment plan goes beyond a single discipline. It adopts a whole-child approach, considering every aspect of a child’s life, from their communication skills and sensory needs to their social and academic development. This means collaborating with speech-language pathologists, occupational therapists, and teachers to create integrated goals. For example, a communication goal set in speech therapy can be reinforced during ABA sessions and practiced in the classroom. This creates consistency for the child and ensures that progress in one area supports growth in others, leading to more meaningful and lasting development.
How to Monitor Progress Effectively
Consistent and accurate progress monitoring is non-negotiable. It’s how you demonstrate the value of your services to families and payers, and it’s essential for making timely adjustments to the treatment plan. Especially for young children in early intervention, tracking skill acquisition from the very beginning can greatly improve a child's development. Set clear, measurable, and achievable goals. Regularly review data with the family and other providers to celebrate wins and collaboratively problem-solve any areas where the child might be stuck. This data-driven approach ensures the plan remains dynamic and responsive to the child’s changing needs.
Streamlining Provider Communication
When multiple providers are involved, clear and consistent communication is what holds the entire treatment plan together. Without it, providers can end up working in silos, leading to confusion for the family and fragmented care for the child. Establishing a regular communication rhythm—whether through shared notes, brief weekly calls, or team meetings—is crucial. Families can also connect with providers and community resources through state-facilitated programs designed to bridge these gaps. By fostering an open line of communication, you ensure everyone on the child’s team is aligned, informed, and working together efficiently.
How to Fund Care: A Guide to Financial Resources
Helping families find the right financial support is a critical part of building a sustainable care plan. The cost of therapy and support services can feel overwhelming, but Colorado offers a solid network of funding options. Guiding families through these resources can make a world of difference, ensuring they can access the care their child needs without unnecessary financial strain. Think of it as putting together a puzzle; once you know where the pieces are, you can help families see the full picture of support available to them.
Tapping into State Support Programs
Colorado provides a range of services for children with autism, and many are funded through state-level initiatives. For families with young children, Early Intervention Colorado is an essential first stop. This program offers free services, including ABA, speech, and occupational therapy, for children under the age of three. Beyond early intervention, the state has various Medicaid waivers and programs designed to cover essential treatments. Pointing families toward these state-funded options can open doors to consistent, high-quality care from the very beginning. It’s a foundational step in building a comprehensive support system.
Making Sense of Insurance Coverage
The good news is that ABA therapy is covered by most private insurance plans in Colorado, as well as by Health First Colorado, the state's Medicaid program. The key is helping families understand the specifics of their individual plans. Encourage them to call their insurance provider directly to ask about coverage for ABA, speech, and occupational therapies. They should inquire about deductibles, co-pays, and any limits on the number of authorized hours. Having a clear understanding of their benefits empowers families to advocate for their child and helps you create a treatment plan that aligns with their coverage.
Finding Local Financial Resources
Families don't have to go it alone when searching for support. Local organizations are dedicated to connecting people with the help they need. The Autism Society of Colorado is an invaluable resource for anyone in the Lakewood area. They provide a central hub for information, community connections, and guidance on financial assistance options. Recommending that families reach out to the ASC can provide them with a sense of community and a direct line to people who understand their situation and know the local landscape of available aid.
Applying for Available Scholarships
Sometimes, families need help covering expenses that insurance won't touch, like respite care, specialized camp programs, or necessary home modifications. This is where scholarships and grants come in. The Family Support Services Program (FSSP) is a great example, offering financial assistance to families of children with developmental disabilities to help pay for a variety of services and items. Informing families about these types of programs can relieve significant financial pressure and improve the entire family's quality of life by funding the supports that wrap around a child's core therapeutic plan.
Your Roadmap to Accessing Services
Getting the right support for a child with autism can feel like a huge undertaking, but you can make it manageable by breaking it down into clear, actionable steps. Think of it as building a personalized support system, piece by piece. This roadmap will guide you through the essential stages, from the first evaluation to assembling a dedicated team. Each step builds on the last, creating a strong foundation for your child’s growth and development. Let's walk through the process together.
Start with the Initial Assessment
If you have concerns about your child’s development, the very first step is to talk with their doctor. Trust your intuition. An early and accurate diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is the gateway to accessing specialized services and support. This initial conversation starts the process and allows a professional to recommend the next steps, which usually involve a more comprehensive evaluation. Getting this process started as soon as you notice potential signs can make a significant difference in connecting your child with the right resources to help them thrive.
Coordinate the Right Services
Once you have a diagnosis, the next step is to find the right therapies. For children under three, Early Intervention Colorado offers free services that can include speech, occupational, and ABA therapy. For school-aged children, Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy is a highly effective, evidence-based approach that helps improve social, communication, and learning skills through personalized, often one-on-one, sessions. Researching the different services available for children with autism will help you understand which options best fit your child’s unique needs and goals.
Develop the Treatment Plan
A treatment plan is more than just a schedule of therapies; it’s a personalized guide to help your child build independence and achieve their goals. This plan should be developed collaboratively with your therapy team. Leading providers like the Center for Autism and Related Disorders (CARD®) use structured approaches to create custom goals for each person. The most effective plans are dynamic, evolving as your child learns and grows. They focus on developing practical skills for daily life, ensuring that the therapy is not only effective but also meaningful for your child and family.
Assemble the Support Team
Your child’s success depends on a strong, collaborative support team. This includes more than just therapists; it’s a network of dedicated professionals working together. Places like the Soar Autism Center in Lakewood have dedicated staff, from clinicians to operations directors, who all play a role in your child’s care journey. When you build your team, look for providers who communicate well with each other and with you. A cohesive team ensures that everyone is aligned on the treatment plan and goals, creating a consistent and supportive environment for your child to flourish.
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Frequently Asked Questions
My client's family just received an autism diagnosis for their child. What is the most important first step I can guide them toward? The best first step depends on the child's age. If the child is under three, direct the family to contact their local Community Centered Board (CCB) to get started with Early Intervention Colorado. This is a crucial, state-funded program that provides a range of free therapies. For a school-aged child, the first step is twofold: have the family call their insurance provider to confirm benefits for ABA and other therapies, and simultaneously, have them formally request an educational evaluation from their public school in writing.
How can I help a family decide which therapies are the most important to start with? It’s less about choosing one therapy over another and more about building a collaborative team. You can explain that ABA therapy often serves as the foundation, providing a structured approach to building critical skills and addressing challenging behaviors. From there, speech and occupational therapy can be layered in to target specific communication goals and daily living skills. The key is to start with a comprehensive evaluation that identifies the child's most significant needs, which will naturally point to the right blend of services.
What’s the simplest way to explain the difference between an IEP and a 504 Plan to a family? You can explain it by focusing on the type of support the child needs. An Individualized Education Program (IEP) is for students whose disability impacts their ability to learn in a general education setting, so it provides specialized instruction and related services. A 504 Plan is for students who can learn in a general classroom but need specific accommodations to access the curriculum, like preferential seating or extra time on tests. The best way to help a family prepare for either meeting is to help them create a simple, organized list of their child's strengths, challenges, and the specific supports that help them succeed.
Families often feel overwhelmed by the cost of care. What is the most direct financial advice I can offer? The most straightforward advice is to have them make one phone call: to their insurance provider. They should ask for a case manager and get clear, written confirmation of their benefits for ABA, speech, and occupational therapy. They need to know their deductible, out-of-pocket maximum, and any limits on therapy hours. Once they have that information, they can explore state resources like Health First Colorado or Medicaid waivers to fill any gaps. Knowing what their primary insurance covers is the essential first piece of the financial puzzle.
How can I effectively coordinate with a child’s entire therapy and school team without it taking over my schedule? The key is to establish a simple and consistent communication system from the start. With the family's consent, you can create a shared digital folder for progress notes and treatment plans. You can also propose a brief, standardized email update to be shared among providers every month. This ensures everyone is aligned on goals and progress without requiring constant meetings. Fostering this open, streamlined communication makes you the central point of contact and ensures the child receives consistent, holistic care across all settings.
