According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s Autism and Developmental Disabilities Monitoring Network, one in 31 children have autism spectrum disorder (ASD). ASD can occur in all racial, ethnic and socioeconomic groups and is more than three times more common among boys than girls.
Research suggests that early intervention services can greatly improve a child’s development. Individuals with ASD may struggle with social communication and interaction, and restriction or repetitive behaviors or interests. They may have different ways of learning, interacting or paying attention, which can make life challenging.
Who To Contact for Help
Families of children with ASD should contact the Fairfax-Falls Church Community Services Board (CSB). The CSB is the "point of entry" to apply for services for residents of Fairfax County and the cities of Fairfax and Falls Church who have developmental disabilities, including ASD.
To be eligible for services, individuals must meet certain diagnostic and functional criteria. To learn more about the application process and to schedule an appointment, call 703-324-4400, TTY 711, to contact an intake support coordinator.
Available Services
Individuals may be eligible for services including Support Coordination, Day Support and Employment Services, and Residential Services.
Virginia has expanded funding to provide services for those individuals on the Medicaid Home and Community-Based Developmental Disability (DD) Waiver (often referred to as DD Waivers) Priority One Wait List. This will provide significantly more waiver slots for Virginians with developmental disability, such as ASD, so that they can receive services and supports to improve their and their families’ lives and wellbeing.
How DD Waivers Work
Information about navigating DD Waivers is available from the CSB, community organizations such as the Arc of Northern Virginia, and the Virginia Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Services.
“The award of a Community Services Board waiver to my son opened up a vast number of opportunities to continue his personal and emotional development after high school graduation at age 21. The day services and at home services have had a very positive effect in the development of his character. During the last three and half to four months, my son is showing less signs of emotional depandance on me personally and an increased level of self-reliance. Thank you!" -J.L.
Additional Resources
- Fairfax County Public Schools’ Parent Resource Center offers free workshops, consultations, a lending library and other resources to help support the success of all children, including those with autism, learning challenges and other special needs
- Therapeutic recreation services offers education, programs and services for individuals with intellectual and physical disabilities.
- F.A.N.tastic Times is a free drop-in program for individuals on the autism spectrum ages 2 to 22 and their families hosted by the Department of Neighborhood and Community Services.
- Sensory rooms at Providence, Lorton and Sully community centers offer a person-centered, safe and nurturing environment through structured interaction and engagement.
Support Groups/Organizations
Find additional community resources, support groups and organizations compiled by the CSB, or visit the Virginia Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Services’ My Life, My Community resource navigator.
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