Florida Elks Children’s Therapy Services, in collaboration with Adult Pediatric Institute, are proud to offer the pinnacle in comprehensive and inclusive autism evaluations at no cost to children in Florida through the Florida Elks for Autism program. Click below to see if you qualify and to get the process started.
Step Up For Students
A Unique Education for a Unique Child
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
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
iBudget Florida gives APD customers flexibility to choose medically necessary services that meet their health and safety needs. Explore this website to find out more about iBudget Florida.
You can find more information on how to apply for iBudget services here.
Community Unity: Adult & Pediatric Institute
Proudly provided by Children’s Services Council of Martin County. In this episode, Manager of Community Engagement, Cheree Ramirez, had the opportunity to sit down with Nicole Clark, MSN, BA, PMHRN-BC the Chief Executive Officer for Adult Pediatric Institute.
CSCMC is excited to bring you the Community Unity series from the 10th Street Studio, in partnership with the City of Stuart, located at the 10th Street Community Center.
🌟 Contributor Spotlight 🌟
We’re proud to share that Nicole was featured in a recent Healthcare IT News article discussing the HHS's proposed Autism Registry. Her insights shed light on the potential impact this initiative could have on early diagnosis, data equity, and the protection of private medical information for individuals with autism.
As a strong advocate for data-driven care and patient-centered outcomes, Nicole continues to lead conversations that matter at the intersection of mental health and autism rights.
📖 Read the full article here: www.healthcareitnews.com/news/nih-and-cms-build-autism-data-platform
#healthcareitnews #autismawareness #MentalHealthLeadership #HealthEquity #DataDrivenCare #nih #CMS #autismregistry ... See MoreSee Less
NIH and CMS to build autism data platform
www.healthcareitnews.com
The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services says the agencies will devise a data use agreement that assures secure access to certain Medicare and Medicaid data with the aim of uncovering root cau...🎧 New Podcast Episode Alert!
Navigating your child's education support can feel overwhelming — but you're not alone.
In this episode of the Adult and Pediatric Institute Podcast, we break down the key differences between IEPs (Individualized Education Programs) and 504 Plans — and, more importantly, how to advocate for and implement the right plan for your child.
Whether your child is struggling academically, socially, or emotionally, understanding these tools is a critical first step in securing the support they need to thrive.
✅ What’s the difference between an IEP and a 504?
✅ Who qualifies — and how do you start the process?
✅ Practical tips from experts.
🎙️ Listen now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts.
🔗 adultpedsinst.podbean.com/e/ieps-and-504s-what-they-are-and-how-to-get-one/
#SpecialEducation #IEP #504Plan #ParentSupport #ChildAdvocacy #MentalHealthMatters #EducationalSupport #PediatricCare #Neurodiversity #ParentingTips ... See MoreSee Less
📰 Featured in The Mirror US
Nicole recently contributed expert commentary to The Mirror US in response to Robert F. Kennedy Jr.’s press conference on autism.
As a mental health professional and Autism Mom, Nicole shared critical insights into the psychological impact of public health messaging—especially when it intersects with sensitive topics like autism. Her perspective helped provide clarity on how such narratives influence families, public perception, and the broader mental health conversation.
🧠 Thoughtful, informed voices are essential in moments like this—and we’re proud to see Nicole’s expertise recognized on a national platform.
📖 Read the full article here: www.themirror.com/news/health/mom-two-autistic-daughters-slams-1126213
#TheMirrorUS #RFKJr #AutismAwareness #MentalHealthMatters #ExpertVoice #InTheNews #asdmom #AdultandPedsInstitute ... See MoreSee Less
Autism mom slams RFK Jr. for cruel 'never pay taxes' attack on kids like hers
www.themirror.com
With his speech, HHS Secretary Kennedy seemed to invalidate an autism expert's feelings and teachings to both her kids.Mindful Monday
This quote by Julian Seifter emphasizes the distinction between a person's identity and their illness. It suggests that while an illness may affect one's life, it does not define who they are as a person. The quote encourages individuals to recognize and honor their unique stories, names, histories, and personalities, which are independent of their medical conditions. Maintaining a sense of self is portrayed as a crucial component of coping with and overcoming the challenges posed by an illness. This perspective can be particularly empowering, as it reinforces the idea that patients are more than their diagnoses, highlighting the importance of holistic care that acknowledges the whole person, not just their symptom.
Happy Monday!
Mental Health Awareness Month
Adult and Pediatric Institute for Health and Wellness
www.pedsinstitute.com
(844)550-7337
#mentalhealthawareness #MentalHealthAwareness2025 #mentalhealthawarenessmonth #MentalHealthAwarenessMatters #BreakTheStigma #MentalHealthAwareness ... See MoreSee Less
May is Mental Health Awareness Month, a time dedicated to raising awareness, reducing stigma, and promoting understanding about mental health issues. Mental health is just as important as physical health, and taking care of our mental well-being should be a priority for everyone.
This month, let's focus on:
Education: Learn about mental health conditions and the impact they have on individuals and communities.
Support: Reach out to friends, family, or colleagues who may be struggling. A simple conversation can make a big difference.
Self-Care: Prioritize activities that enhance your mental wellness, such as exercise, meditation, or spending time in nature.
Advocacy: Advocate for mental health resources and policies that support mental well-being in your community.
Remember, it's okay to ask for help, and seeking support is a sign of strength. Let's work together to create a world where mental health is recognized, respected, and treated with the same importance as physical health.
We are always here to help!
Adult and Pediatric Institute for Health and Wellness
(844)550-7337
#MentalHealthAwareness #BreakTheStigma #MentalHealthMatters #Mental #mentalwellnessmatters #mentalwellbeingmatters #mentalhealthawarenessmonth #selflovejourney ... See MoreSee Less
✨ This weekend, the Adult and Pediatric Institute team had the honor of attending the Unmasking Autism Gala, hosted by the Florida Elks.
💙 This incredible event raises funds for the Florida Elks for Autism Testing Program — a cause close to our hearts. Thanks to this program, our team is able to provide comprehensive autism evaluations for 40 children each year at no cost to their families.
We’re proud to stand alongside the Florida Elks in making early diagnosis and support more accessible for families across Florida.
#UnmaskingAutism #FloridaElks #AutismAwareness #PediatricCare #CommunitySupport #EarlyIntervention #AdultAndPediatricInstitute ... See MoreSee Less
This is what we mean when we say we have the power to impact real change when we all come together!!
#autismcommunityunited #asdunited #asdmom #noasdregistry ... See MoreSee Less
No new autism registry, HHS says, walking back NIH director's claim
www.statnews.com
The federal health department is not creating a new registry of Americans with autism, an HHS official said Thursday.🎙️ New Podcast Episode Alert!
"Supporting Your Autistic Child Through Movement" with Dr. Allison Mell
This week, we’re thrilled to welcome Dr. Allison Mell, pediatric physical therapist and founder of Tots On Target, to discuss the vital role of physical therapy in supporting children with autism.
👣 Discover how movement impacts emotional regulation, sensory integration, and social development.
🧠 Learn practical strategies to help your child thrive—at home, in school, and beyond.
💬 A must-listen for parents looking to build a strong foundation for their child’s growth.
🎧 Listen now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you tune in. www.podbean.com/eas/pb-xye77-188bfc3
#AutismSupport #PhysicalTherapy #ParentingTips #PediatricCare #Neurodiversity #PodcastEpisode #ChildDevelopment #DrAllisonMell ... See MoreSee Less
🎙️ Podcast Feature: Nicole on Winning Isn’t Easy
We’re excited to share that Nicole was a guest on the Winning Isn’t Easy podcast with Nancy Cavey!
In this powerful episode, Nicole dives into the intersection of Autism and Social Security Disability, shedding light on: 🔍 The unique challenges autistic individuals face in the disability system
📋 What families need to know when applying for benefits
💬 How advocacy and mental health support go hand in hand
Whether you’re a parent, caregiver, or professional—this episode is packed with insight and guidance you won’t want to miss.
🎧 Tune in now wherever you get your podcasts or listen here: www.buzzsprout.com/2323083/episodes/17024382
#AutismAwareness #DisabilitySupport #SocialSecurityDisability #WinningIsntEasy #MentalHealthMatters #PodcastGuest #Neurodiversity #AdvocacyInAction ... See MoreSee Less
Autism, Spectrum Disorders, Their Relationship with Social Security Disability, and More with Guest Nicole Clark - Winning Isn't Easy: Navigating Your Social Security Disability Claim
www.buzzsprout.com
Welcome to Season 1, Episode 14 of Winning Isn't Easy: Navigating Your Social Security Disability Claim. In this episode, we'll dive into the complicated topic of "Autism, Spectrum Disorders, Their Re...