Getting Started with Adult Autism Services Once You’re Eligible

Learn what's next now that you've been approved for Adult Autism Services from the Department of Developmental Services (DDS).

You've been approved for Adult Autism Services—so what's next?

Meet your Autism Service Coordinator

After you get your eligibility letter, DDS will assign you an Autism Service Coordinator from your local Area Office. This person will help guide you through the process.

Initial Meeting

Your Service Coordinator will contact you to set up an initial meeting. The meeting can happen at the DDS office or at your home. During the meeting, the Coordinator will:

• Get to know you and your family
• Gain an understanding of your needs and goals
• Discuss potentially available DDS services
• Help connect you to programs, providers, and community resources that match your needs and goals

All DDS services depend on available state funding.

Creating a service plan

If you start using DDS-funded services, your Service Coordinator will:

• Help create an individualized service plan based on your goals
• Organize team meetings to check in
• Make sure services are working and helping you progress

What Your Autism Service Coordinator Helps With

Your Autism Service Coordinator will:

• Help you develop goals and plan supports
• Make referrals when needed
• Managing your DDS service budget
• Connecting you to provider agencies and resources in the community
• Leading planning and team meetings
• Checking in to see how things are going