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.
🎙️ New Podcast Episode Out Now!
Nicole sat down with the brilliant Haley Moss—attorney, author, and advocate—for a powerful conversation you won’t want to miss.
Together, they dive into:
💬 The journey to self-acceptance
🏛️ When and how to disclose for workforce accommodations
🧠 Why autistic individuals need more than just awareness—they need a seat at the table
Whether you're neurodivergent, a parent, or a professional seeking to build a more inclusive world, this episode is full of insight, heart, and actionable takeaways.
🎧 Listen now on your favorite platform or click here: mcdn.podbean.com/mf/web/ii8shv5gz2stsihs/Haley_Moss_ASD_1_9gl9e.mp3
#Neurodiversity #InclusionMatters #AutismAcceptance #Podcast #MentalHealthAwareness ... See MoreSee Less
📺 In the News: Nicole Clark on WESH2 🧩
Nicole was recently interviewed by WESH2 News to discuss Senate Bill 112—a major step forward for autism services in Florida.
While this new law is a win for families, Nicole emphasized that it’s just the beginning. “We need long-term, sustainable solutions that truly support these children and their families,” she shared. “Right now, so many are drowning in waitlists and red tape.”
🧠 SB112 expands access to early intervention, autism-specific schools, and research hubs—but there’s still work to do.
🎙️ Watch the full interview and learn why continued advocacy is essential: www.wesh.com/article/florida-expands-autism-services/64967824
#AutismAcceptance #FloridaLegislation #DisabilityRights #NicoleClark #AutismSupport #SB112 #AdultAndPediatricInstitute ... See MoreSee Less
Florida expands autism services with new law
www.wesh.com
Gov. Ron DeSantis signed a bill into law expanding services and funding for children with autism and other developmental disabilities in Florida.🌈 Happy Pride Month from the Adult and Pediatric Institute 🌈
This June, we honor the beauty of diversity and the strength it takes to live authentically. At Adult and Pediatric Institute, we believe that self-acceptance is essential to mental health, and everyone deserves care that respects who they are.
We proudly offer gender-affirming care and a safe, compassionate space for individuals of all identities. Because being yourself is not just brave — it's something to celebrate.
💖 You are valid. You are worthy. You are not alone.
#PrideMonth #GenderAffirmingCare #MentalHealthMatters #SelfAcceptance #LiveAuthentically #LGBTQSupport ... See MoreSee Less
This group has become one of the highlights of my month! It's a group of amazing warriors supporting each other with resources, knowledge, and love! Chances Advocates LLC thank you for always going above and beyond for mom's like myself! -Nicole ... See MoreSee Less
🎙️ New Podcast Episode Alert!
This week on the Adult and Pediatric Institute Podcast, Nicole sits down with renowned Social Security Disability attorney Nancy Cavey for a powerful and insightful conversation.
💼 They dive into:
🔹 Why having the right attorney makes all the difference
🔹 The realities of navigating Social Security and VA Disability
🔹 What it’s like building a business as a woman in a male-dominated field—and thriving!
Whether you're an entrepreneur, advocate, or just curious about the intersection of law, healthcare, and gender equity, this episode is a must-listen.
🎧 Tune in now on your favorite podcast platform or listen here on podbean: adultpedsinst.podbean.com/e/social-security-disability-with-nancy-cavey-law/
#Podcast #SocialSecurityDisability #NancyCavey #FemaleEntrepreneur #DisabilityLaw #MentalHealthMatters #WomenInBusiness #AdultAndPediatricInstitute #winningisnteasy ... See MoreSee Less
🌟 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