NEWS

So, Your Child Just Got Diagnosed: What’s Next?

Receiving an autism spectrum disorder (ASD) diagnosis can feel like stepping onto a roller coaster—equal parts relief, overwhelm, and uncertainty. On one hand, you finally have answers. On the other, you’ve just entered a new world of therapies, resources, and opinions that most families will never have to navigate.

It’s completely normal to wonder: Am I really doing what’s best for my child?

This post is here to help you sort through some of the initial questions, especially around therapy options, and what to look for in a provider.

Understanding ABA Therapy

If your child has been diagnosed with ASD, chances are you’ve already heard of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy.

What it is: A structured, evidence-based approach designed to improve specific behaviors and skills.
How it’s funded: ABA is the primary medically funded service for ASD. Insurance may cover anywhere from 1 to 40 hours per week in settings such as home, school, clinic, or the community.

Is ABA the only option?

Absolutely not! While ABA is common, it’s just one of many routes. Every child is unique, and therapy plans should reflect that.

Other Common Therapies

Here are some additional therapies that may support your child, depending on their needs:

Occupational Therapy (OT): Helps with everyday skills, sensory sensitivities, coordination, and emotional regulation.
Speech Therapy (SLP): Improves communication, language development, and speech clarity.
Mental Health Therapy: Focuses on coping skills, emotional regulation, and healthy thought patterns.
Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT): Strengthens relationships and addresses behavioral or emotional regulation challenges.
Feeding Therapy: Addresses difficulties with chewing, swallowing, food variety, or nutrition.
Physical Therapy (PT): Builds strength, balance, and coordination to support movement and play.

Sometimes, children benefit most from a combination of therapies. There’s no one-size-fits-all solution—what matters is tailoring support to your child.

How to Know if a Therapy is the Right Fit

Here are some quick guidelines:

ABA → If your child engages in behaviors that limit independence or needs help building new skills outside of typical settings.
OT → If daily activities, sensory needs, or emotional regulation are a struggle.
Speech → If your child struggles with language, articulation, or social communication.
Mental Health Therapy → If your child can express emotions but has difficulty managing them.
PCIT → If family relationships are affected by behavior or emotional regulation challenges.
Feeding Therapy → If eating habits affect growth, nutrition, or health.
PT → If movement, strength, or coordination impacts daily life.

Choosing a Therapy Provider: What to Look For

Not all providers or companies are the same. Here are some must-haves when choosing a practice:

A collaborative approach with other professionals.
A commitment to safety and growth in socially and developmentally appropriate ways.
A focus on your child as an individual, not just on “fitting in.”
A culture of continued education and improvement.
Low staff turnover, allowing your child to build meaningful relationships.
A non-judgmental, supportive approach that aligns with your family’s values.
Experience with ASD, not just general OT, PT, or SLP skills.

Do Schools Provide Enough Support?

Yes—and no. Many schools are equipped to support children with ASD. For some kids, school plus family support is all they need.

But if your child:

Isn’t reaching developmental milestones,
Has behaviors that are unsafe, or
Faces challenges that limit happiness, independence, or daily life—

…then building a therapeutic village around them can make a world of difference.

Every family’s journey with ASD looks different. What’s universal is the need for support, compassion, and a team that sees your child’s unique strengths.

While the road may feel overwhelming at first, remember: you don’t have to have all the answers right away. Step by step, with the right support, you can build a path that helps your child thrive.

You’re Not Alone

If your family is just beginning this journey, take a deep breath—you don’t have to walk it alone. The right support system can make all the difference for both your child and your family.

💙 If you’re ready to explore your options or just want someone to listen, we’d love to connect with you. Reach out to our team today and let’s start building the support your child deserves.