Getting Referrals

How to get a referral for a screening

As a parent, you know your child and can spot potential signs of autism early on. Speak to your pediatrician or pediatric nurse practitioner to get a referral for a screening.

Empower yourself as a parent and advocate

Monitor the development of your child. Keep an eye on how your child is developing socially, emotionally, and cognitively. While developmental delays do not equate to autism, they can be one of its characteristics.
If you are concerned, take actions. If you have any concerns or have questions, talk to your doctor or nurse practitioner right away.
Trust your instincts.

Not sure what to look for?

See a list of early indicators of autism

What to expect at an intake meeting

This video series, produced by the Individual Education Program Technical Assistance Center (IEP TA Center), shows a simulation of a preschool special education intake.

Watch the series

What do I do after I get a referral from a medical professional?

Get the child evaluated by a psychiatrist, psychologist, developmental pediatrician, or a pediatric neurologist specializing in autism.
- Autism Society of Indiana: www.autismsocietyofindiana.org
- Indiana Family to Family: www.inf2f.org
- Indiana Resource Center for Autism: IRCA
Review your insurance
Apply for a Medicaid waiver (Indiana residents, visit the Family Services and Social Administration website)
Educate yourself about the diagnosis
- HANDS in Autism®: see our Next Steps manual
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
- National Institute of Mental Health
- Autism Society of America: www.autism-society.org
Educate yourself about treatment options, like medical, behavioral, and educational intervention
- Read National Standards Report by the National Autism Center
- Early intervention options (in Indiana, see First Steps)
- If the child is at school, work with school on available services
Get in touch with policy and advocacy agencies in your area:
- The Arc and their local chapter in your state (The Arc of Indiana)
- Indiana Family to Family
- Autism Society of America and their local chapter in your state (Autism Society of Indiana)
Know your rights (e.g., Article 7 for Indiana residents)
Create a binder with the information about your child (diagnosis, assessment results, conversation and meeting logs, IEPs and BIPs (if applicable))
Find a local support group
Be an advocate for your child

Finally, remember the needs of other members of your family (and your own)!

Getting Referrals

How to get a referral for a screening

Empower yourself as a parent and advocate

What to expect at an intake meeting

What do I do after I get a referral from a medical professional?

HANDS in Autism® resources and social media channels