Just Received an Autism Diagnosis?

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Getting a diagnosis can leave people with a lot of questions and not much direction. This page is here to help you start in the right place. 

Start Here: Social Development

If you are looking for government disability supports, funding, or help putting supports in place for your child, contact the Family Supports for Children with Disabilities program through the Department of Social Development. Families can self-refer by calling 1-833-733-7835.

If your child is preschool-aged and not yet in school: Ask about the Preschool Autism Program.

If your child needs support at school:
Start with your child’s school team. Autism Connections does not go into schools to provide direct in-school support or EA services. Families need to connect with Social Development regarding EA-related supports. 

Then contact Autism Connections for autism-informed:

• programs and services
• parent/caregiver support 
• resources and helpful links 
• recreation and community connection 
• ASD-informed counselling 
• skills-building supports that may help reinforce success in everyday life, including school-related skills outside of school settings

Start here: Disability Support Program
If you need funded disability-related support with daily living or community participation, start with the Disability Support Program. It is open to New Brunswick residents ages 19 to 64 who have a long-term disability and need support to live more independently or participate in the community. You can apply online or call 1-833-733-7835. 

If employment is one of your main goals:
You can connect with WorkingNB and/or Jobs Unlimited. The Training and Employment Support Services (TESS) program helps eligible New Brunswickers with disabilities participate in training and obtain, resume, or maintain employment. 

Then contact Autism Connections for:

• ASD-informed counselling 
• resources and helpful links 
• community support 
• autism-informed programs and services 
• employment readiness support such as Aspire to Work for eligible participants age 16+ 

Please note: Aspire to Work is a free, 12-week virtual employment readiness program that is offered as funding allows. It is not a job placement service. Visit the Aspire to Work page for updates on any upcoming workshops.