Helpful Resources
Our list of grants, resources, and no cost child evaluations
Legislative Advocacy
2026 Bills We Support and Why They Matter
As a multidisciplinary provider serving children, adolescents, and adults, the Adult and Pediatric Institute champions legislation that expands access to pediatric mental health care, autism evaluations, and early intervention services in Florida.
Our advocacy is rooted in direct clinical experience and family partnerships that support meaningful, evidence-based policy change.
Florida Elks for Autism
Free Autism Evaluations for Florida Residents
The Adult and Pediatric Institute is proud to partner with Florida Elks for Autism to provide free ADOS-2 comprehensive autism diagnostic evaluations (CDE) for eligible children throughout the state of Florida.
The ADOS-2 is the gold-standard assessment used to evaluate autism spectrum disorder. Through this program, qualified families can access a comprehensive, evidence-based evaluation at no cost—helping remove financial barriers and long wait times that often delay answers and care.
Early diagnosis opens the door to critical supports, including therapy, educational services, and individualized treatment planning. Our experienced clinical team provides testing in a supportive, child-centered environment and offers guidance on next steps following evaluation.
👉 Check eligibility and fill out the contact us form to request an appointment below
Autism Society of Florida
Free Resources for Individuals with Autism
The Autism Society of Florida is a statewide nonprofit organization dedicated to improving the lives of individuals with autism and their families through advocacy, education, and community support.
The organization provides trusted resources, family education, and connections to local supports, while working at the state level to promote policies that enhance access to services, inclusion, and long-term quality of life for individuals across the autism spectrum.
At the Adult and Pediatric Institute, we value partnerships with organizations like the Autism Society of Florida that empower families with information, support, and a strong community voice.
IEP and 504 Resource Document
Outlines The IEP and 504 Process
Navigating the special education system can feel overwhelming—especially when you’re advocating for your child’s unique needs.
Our IEP & 504 Resource Guide was created to help parents and caregivers better understand the educational supports available to their child, including the differences between an Individualized Education Program (IEP) and a 504 Plan, how eligibility is determined, and how to effectively collaborate with schools to ensure appropriate accommodations and services are in place.
This resource is designed to empower families by providing:
- Clear explanations of IEPs and 504 Plans
- Guidance on evaluations, eligibility, and school meetings
- Tips for advocating for your child’s educational and emotional needs
- Common accommodations and supports for learning, attention, behavior, and mental health challenges
Whether you are just beginning the process or seeking to strengthen an existing plan, this guide is meant to serve as a trusted starting point—and a reminder that you are not alone.
👉 Download the IEP & 504 Resource Guide below
Step Up For Students- FES-UA Approved Provider
Diagnostics, ABA, and Psychiatry Funding
Children with unique abilities may have different needs when it comes to their education. And we believe they deserve an opportunity to thrive and learn in an environment that will best support their success.
The Family Empowerment Scholarship for Students with Unique Abilities (FES-UA) enables families to personalize the education of their students by directing funds to where they’re needed most.
The funds can be used for a combination of programs and approved expenses including therapists, specialists, curriculum, private school, a college savings account and more.
Children’s Services Council of Martin County
Free Autism Evaluations for Martin County Children
The CSCMC and the Adult and Pediatric Institute have joined together to offer free Comprehensive Autism Evaluations (CDE) to the under-served children in Martin County. Call us today to see if your child qualifies!
The Children’s Services Council of Martin County is an independent special district of local government.
The Council provides a dedicated funding source for children’s programs proven to positively impact the quality of life for all residents of Martin County.
Visit The Council page to learn more about the Children’s Services Council of Martin County and the programs available for families in our area.
iBudget Florida
Home and Community-Based (HCBS) Waiver
The Florida iBudget Waiver is a Medicaid Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) program designed to support individuals with developmental disabilities so they can live safely and successfully in their communities.
The program provides eligible individuals with a personalized budget that can be used to access approved services such as behavioral therapies, personal supports, respite care, and other essential services based on individual needs. Funding is determined through a standardized assessment process and is managed within an annual budget allocation.
The iBudget Waiver serves individuals with qualifying developmental disabilities, including autism spectrum disorder, and prioritizes services that promote independence, skill development, and quality of life—while supporting families and caregivers.
Enrollment is managed through the Florida Agency for Persons with Disabilities (APD), and availability is subject to eligibility requirements and waitlist status.
Showing up matters.
Autism and Disability Day at the Florida Capitol is a chance to come together as parents, educators, providers, and caregivers who care deeply about our community. When we show up, we remind leaders that real people and real families are behind every decision.
Your voice helps shape policy.
Your presence helps create change.
Your advocacy supports today and protects the future.
If you care about children and adults with disabilities, this space is for you.
Join us in Tallahassee
February 10th and 11th
We would love to see you there.
#aurismadvocacy #AutismRights ... See MoreSee Less
It’s hard to make decisions about medication when you feel rushed or unheard.
At Adult & Pediatric Institute, our pediatric psychiatry appointments are a full hour—so our doctors can really get to know your child, listen to your concerns, and move at a low-and-slow pace with medication.
Because your child is more than a diagnosis, and understanding them comes first.
If you’re wondering what next steps might look like, we’re here to talk.
Call today. 844.550.7337 ... See MoreSee Less
ABA therapy isn’t about changing who she is.
It’s about supporting the skills that help connection feel safe, possible, and joyful — at her pace, in her way.
At Adult & Pediatric Institute, our approach to ABA is child-centered, affirming, and grounded in understanding the whole child. We focus on communication, regulation, and connection so children can engage with the world around them in ways that feel right for them and their families.
If you’ve been wondering whether ABA therapy could support your child, you don’t have to navigate that question alone. Sometimes the next step is simply a conversation.
Give us a call, or send us a direct message, and we'll walk you through each question! ... See MoreSee Less
And THIS is just one of the reasons we love the Florida State Elks Association and the Florida Elks Children's Therapy Services! They are always giving back to the special needs community and helping children in need.
#ElkStrong #floridaelks #elkscareelksshare #specialneedsThere is still time to apply, don't miss this great opportunity! Scholarship applications must be post marked by January 16th.
The Ben Brown Physical & Occupational Therapy Scholarship is open to Florida college students seeking to further their education in the field of physical or occupational therapy.
Each year we look forward to helping a current college student achieve their goal of becoming a certified physical or occupational therapist.
For more information or to apply visit
elkstherapy.com/ben-brown-scholarship
Post-mark deadline: Friday, January 16, 2026
#scholarships #occupationaltherapy #physicaltherapy #elks #floridaelks #elkscareelksshare ... See MoreSee Less
Proud to support the 33rd Annual CARD Conference with UCF CARD - Center for Autism and Related Disabilities! At Adult & Pediatric Institute, we believe progress happens when providers, educators, and families come together. Honored to be part of this important event serving the autism community.
We hope to see some of you there!💙✨Thank you to the Adult and Pediatric Institute for being a sapphire sponsor for our 33rd annual CARD conference!
The Adult and Pediatric Institute is redefining what psychiatric and behavioral healthcare looks like. Unlike traditional practices that focus on just one piece of the puzzle, they are the first organization to fully merge mental health and behavioral health services under one roof—providing truly integrated care across the lifespan. Find integrated care for you at every age and every stage.
Thank you to the Adult and Pediatric Institute for supporting our Florida autism community! ... See MoreSee Less
Hey dads, you’re not meant to carry this alone.
Parenting a child with disabilities comes with unique challenges, questions, and moments that aren’t always easy to talk about. Connecting with other fathers who truly understand can make a meaningful difference.
We’re grateful to partner with CHANCES Advocates to share this free Dad’s Support Group, designed to foster connection, communication, and support among dads raising children with special needs.
🗓 Saturday, January 31, 2026
⏰ 6:30 PM | Zoom
📅 Meeting monthly
📲 RSVP by 1/24/26 | Text 1-772-262-6786
Strong families are built through community—and spaces like this matter.
We hope you’ll join us and help strengthen the support around fathers in our community. ... See MoreSee Less
We’re proud to share that Nicole Clark, CEO of Adult & Pediatric Institute, will be speaking at the 33rd Annual Florida Statewide CARD Conference.
Nicole will present Building an Integrative Future for Mental Health Care, a forward-looking conversation centered on collaboration, innovation, and creating more connected systems of care for individuals and families across Florida.
As an organization committed to whole-person, family-centered care, Adult & Pediatric Institute is honored to contribute to statewide conversations that shape the future of mental health services.
📍 The Florida Hotel & Conference Center | Orlando, FL
📅 January 18, 2026
⏰ 10:15 AM | Salon 3
We look forward to connecting with fellow providers, advocates, and leaders at this important event. ... See MoreSee Less
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You may hear the term RBT often when exploring ABA therapy—but what does it actually mean?
A Registered Behavior Technician (RBT) is the professional who works one-on-one with your child during ABA therapy sessions, helping build meaningful skills through consistency, care, and connection.
Under the guidance of a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA), RBTs follow an individualized treatment plan designed around your child’s unique needs.
At Adult & Pediatric Institute, our RBTs are a vital part of each child’s care team—and we’re grateful for the dedication and compassion they bring to families every day.
If you have questions about ABA therapy or the people who support your child along the way, we’re here to help. ... See MoreSee Less