New to Autism

The following information is geared to San Diego County residents. If you reside elsewhere, visit the Autism Society of America to find a chapter near you.

 

If you are concerned about your child’s development, contact the San Diego County Regional Center at 858.496.4318 if your child is under age 3 and 858.576.2938 if your child is 3 or older. To speak directly to another parent, contact the Exceptional Family Resource Center (1.800.281.8252) which coordinates directly with the San Diego Regional Center and can also put you on the right path. These agencies can guide you to appropriate information and assessment services. The child should also be evaluated by a physician to rule out any other medical conditions.  For a list of traits frequently exhibited by individuals with autism click here.

 

 

A child diagnosed with autism under age 3 will be able to access early start services that may include in-home behavioral support, home therapies, and consultation with various experts.  If your child is over age 3, make sure to communicate with your child’s teacher to obtain information about special education referral and evaluation procedures.

 

The following local agencies also offer support to families new to the autism diagnosis:

 

San Diego Autism Society Parent Support Groups

Children’s Autism Intervention Center

COMPASS Family Center at University of San Diego

Autism Tree Project Parent Mentor Program

 

For more detailed information about San Diego county referral procedures for early intervention and special education services, click on one of the links below:

 

Referral Process for Children 0-3

Referral Process for Children 3 and older

 

For general information about diagnostic and screening tools for autism, visit the Autism Society of America.