Autism Connections
Autism Connections
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    • Home
    • About Us
    • Programs
    • Services
    • Resources
    • Recreation
    • FAQ
    • Donate
    • Family Membership
    • Volunteer
    • The AC Merit Award
    • Merch
    • Meet Our Staff
    • Superhero Fun-Run/Walk
    • Spares & Strikes
    • Drive-By-Santa
    • Art is a Spectrum Gallery
    • Contact Us
    • Virtual Resource Guide
    • Voices from Our Community
    • Annual General Meeting
  • Home
  • About Us
  • Programs
  • Services
  • Resources
  • Recreation
  • FAQ
  • Donate
  • Family Membership
  • Volunteer
  • The AC Merit Award
  • Merch
  • Meet Our Staff
  • Superhero Fun-Run/Walk
  • Spares & Strikes
  • Drive-By-Santa
  • Art is a Spectrum Gallery
  • Contact Us
  • Virtual Resource Guide
  • Voices from Our Community
  • Annual General Meeting

Frequently Asked Questions

Autism assessments are done by Pediatricians, Psychiatrists and Psychologists. 


For a Pediatrician or Psychiatrist you require a referral from a General Practitioner or a Nurse Practitioner. 


Assessments from Psychologists are self-referred, however this route costs out of pocket (or can be charged to most insurance plans). 


For Psychologists in Fredericton who offer autism assessments, visit our Virtual Resource Guide! (Please note, we cannot speak to if they are currently taking patients). 


No, we do not offer autism assessments. 


Autism Connections offers resources, programs, community engagement, events, and services for autistic individuals (without or without formal diagnosis), their parents/caregivers, and families. 


It is important to be aware that an autism assessment can be a lengthy process from beginning to end, that can take years and in some cases can be costly. 


Although assessments are free through a Pediatrician or Psychiatrist, the average wait time on a referral to either is currently around 2-3 years. The wait for a Psychologist can be shorter, but is often a more lengthy process as it is expensive. 


One can expect the process to take anywhere from a few months to 2+ years. 


 Autism Connections serves autistic individuals (with or without formal diagnosis) of ALL ages. 


We do not require a formal diagnosis of autism to access our programs or services, or to take part in our events! 


Autism Connections welcomes EVERYONE! 


Not only all autistic individuals (whether formally diagnosed or self identifying), their parents, family, and caregivers; we also welcome anyone in our community to come take part, see what we are about, and help us support those in our community who need it! 


Legal Rights & Who to Contact (New Brunswick)

Important note: The information below is provided for general guidance only. Autism Connections does not provide legal advice, advocacy in disputes, or investigative services. Laws, policies, and procedures can change, and individual situations may differ. If you are dealing with a safety concern, a rights-based issue, or a legal decision, contacting the appropriate authority or a qualified professional as early as possible is often the best next step.


We regularly hear from individuals and families seeking help with legal, safety, or rights-based concerns. While Autism Connections can share resources, we cannot make determinations, intervene, or act on behalf of individuals. 


The following FAQs are intended to help you connect with the most appropriate organization for your situation.

Where to start:


  • A lawyer who practices family law or estates and trusts in New Brunswick
  • Legal Aid New Brunswick (if you may qualify)


Why: Power of attorney, guardianship, and trusteeship are legal processes that require professional legal advice and, in some cases, court involvement. Autism Connections cannot advise on or prepare legal documents.


Where to start:

  • Your child’s school principal
  • The school district (in writing, if possible)


If there are serious safety concerns:

  • Child Protection Services/Social Development
  • Police (if you believe a child may be at immediate risk or a criminal offence may have occurred)


Why: Schools and districts are responsible for staff conduct and student safety. Concerns involving harm or risk must be addressed by authorities with the mandate to respond. Autism Connections cannot investigate or intervene in school staffing or safety matters.


Where to start:

  • Your child’s school team (teacher, principal, resource staff, EA)
  • The school district or superintendent


If the issue is unresolved:

  • New Brunswick Human Rights Commission (for concerns related to disability-based discrimination)
  • Child and Youth Advocate New Brunswick


Why: Accommodation in education is governed by legislation and policy. These organizations have the authority to review complaints and address rights-based concerns. Autism Connections does not have oversight of schools or school districts.


Where to start:

  • The care provider or agency directly (if safe to do so)


If there are concerns about neglect, abuse, or exploitation:

  • Social Development 
  • Police (if there is immediate danger or you believe a criminal offence may have occurred)


Why: Allegations or concerns involving abuse, neglect, or exploitation must be assessed by authorities with legal and protective mandates. Autism Connections is not able to assess risk or investigate these situations.


Possible contacts:

  • New Brunswick Human Rights Commission
  • Premier’s Council on Disabilities
  • A lawyer or Legal Aid New Brunswick
  • Social Development (Adult Protection)
  • Police (if there is immediate danger or you believe a criminal offence may have occurred)


Why: These organizations address systemic issues, discrimination, and rights enforcement within their respective mandates.


Where to start:

  • Child and Youth Advocate New Brunswick


Why: This office is independent and exists specifically to advocate for the rights and interests of children and youth in New Brunswick.


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