Helpful Resources
Advocacy and Autism Resources, Community Support, and Free Autism Evaluations
Legislative Advocacy
2026 Priority Bills We Support
The Adult and Pediatric Institute is committed to advocating for policies that protect, empower, and improve outcomes for children, individuals, and families navigating mental health, behavioral health, and educational systems.
Through legislative advocacy, we support evidence-based reforms that promote timely access to services, transparency, accountability, and family involvement across healthcare and education.
By collaborating with policymakers, educators, providers, and community partners, we work to help shape legislation that prioritizes dignity, equity, and meaningful autism support for those we serve.
👉 Download our 2026 Legislative Guide Below
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 autism support, 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 autism support, 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.
Therapy is important, but we know it does not always reflect what is actually happening day-to-day at home.
Those hard moments during meals, transitions, or when communication breaks down are where families need support the most.
That is why we offer in home behavioral therapy. We meet children in the environments where they are learning, playing, and growing so support feels natural and relevant to their everyday life.
We use naturalistic developmental behavioral interventions to help build skills through real experiences, not just structured sessions.
And just as importantly, we support you as the parent or caregiver. You are with your child every day, and you deserve guidance that feels practical and doable in the moment.
If you have been feeling overwhelmed or unsure of what to do next, you are not alone.
Call 844.550.7337 or email [bcashman@pedsinstitute.com](mailto:bcashman@pedsinstitute.com) to get started.
We are here to support your child and your family where it matters most. ... See MoreSee Less
POV: your child is having a meltdown and everything feels out of control.
And you’re just standing there thinking… what am I supposed to do right now?
You don’t have to figure it out on your own. We have two options to help your home feel more calm. In-home behavioral therapy just launched and caregiver support groups start this April.
Call today or learn more at pedsinstitute.com/groups
#autism #ParentSupport #behaviortherapy #adhd ... See MoreSee Less
At Adult and Pediatric Institute, we believe that behavioral therapy, mental health support, and quality care are served best when they are collaborative. We had a wonderful time sharing our behavior strategies with the Chesterbrook Academy regional team. When every partner in a child's environment works together, amazing growth happens!
#behaviortherapy #autism #adhd #earlychildhoodeducation ... See MoreSee Less
Inside the Autistic Mind.
What may look like silence
might actually be a mind working overtime.
“What is the plan?”
“The lights are too loud.”
“I did not realize you were being sarcastic.”
“I feel overwhelmed, but I do not know how to explain why.”
Autism is not a lack of care, effort, or desire to connect.
It is often a different way of processing sensory input, social cues, language, emotion, and expectations all at once.
When we understand the why behind the behavior, we create space for compassion instead of correction.
At Adult and Pediatric Institute, we believe connection starts with understanding. Whether we are supporting children, teens, or adults, our goal is to honor how each individual experiences the world and help them build skills, confidence, and meaningful relationships.
Every mind deserves to be understood. 💙
#AutismAwareness #NeurodiversityAffirming #ABA #BCBA #AdultAndPediatricInstitute ... See MoreSee Less
After a successful launch of our Social Skills Groups, we kept hearing the same thing from parents:
“What about support for us?”
We listened 🤍
Our Parent & Caregiver Support Group is officially here.
This small group is a space to ask questions, gain clarity, learn practical strategies, and feel less alone in the daily challenges of parenting.
No diagnosis required. No pressure. Just support, understanding, and real tools you can use at home. Because meaningful progress happens when families feel confident and equipped.
6 weeks
Thursdays 5:30 to 6:30 PM
Starting April 2
In clinic
Spots are intentionally limited.
Head to www.pedsinstitute.com/groups to register.
#AdultPediatricInstitute #ParentSupport #CaregiverSupport #EvidenceBasedCare #YouAreNotAlone ... See MoreSee Less
Because of the women who came before us, mental health care looks different today.
It is more compassionate.
More evidence-based.
More centered on dignity, safety, and connection.
This month, we celebrate the women who shaped psychology,
trauma treatment, autism advocacy, and child therapy — and whose impact continues to support families every day.
If their work speaks to you, we’d be honored to walk alongside you or your child in the next step.
#WomenInPsychology #MentalHealthSupport #AdultAndPediatricInstitute ... See MoreSee Less
Just announced!!
After such a meaningful kickoff to our Social Skills Groups, we are so excited to introduce something parents have been asking for...
Our Parent & Caregiver Support Group is officially open for registration. Because progress does not stop when you leave the therapy room.
This 6-week small group experience is designed to give you practical, evidence-based tools you can actually use at home. Real strategies. Real support. Real conversations with clinicians and other parents who get it.
No diagnosis required. Just community, understanding, and guidance. Spots are limited to keep this group personal and supportive.
Starting April 2
Thursdays 5:30 to 6:30 PM
In clinic
We cannot wait to walk alongside you.
Register at www.pedsinstitute.com/groups
#AdultPediatricInstitute #ParentSupport #CaregiverSupport #EvidenceBasedCare #YouAreNotAlone ... See MoreSee Less
Call Now
On World Teen Mental Health Day, we want teens to know:
It’s okay to ask for help.
Big emotions. Academic pressure. Social stress. Identity questions.
Being a teenager today comes with real challenges.
But with connection, compassion, and professional support, healing is possible — and growth is powerful.
Let’s continue building a world where teens feel safe to speak, supported to grow, and empowered to thrive.
#TeenWellness #MentalHealthMatters #AdolescentCare #AdultAndPediatricInstitute ... See MoreSee Less
When it comes to ADHD treatment, there isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution.
Stimulants and non-stimulants support the brain in different ways — and the right choice depends on the individual.
At Adult & Pediatric Institute, we take the time to understand your child’s (or your own) nervous system, history, and goals before making recommendations.
Thoughtful care. Personalized support.
Because every brain is unique. 💙
#ADHDSupport #PediatricCare #AdultCare #MentalHealthMatters #PersonalizedMedicine ... See MoreSee Less