Resources to Help Your Family
Navigate.
Support to Help You
Move Forward.
Helpful information, trusted organizations, and Maryland Autism Waiver resources — thoughtfully organized in one place for families.
Information Made Easier to Navigate.
Finding the right autism resources can involve many different agencies, programs, and steps. We’ve gathered helpful starting points to make it easier for Maryland families to understand available services and know where to turn next.
Understanding the Maryland Autism Waiver
The Maryland Autism Waiver is a Medicaid home and community-based services program for eligible children and young adults with Autism Spectrum Disorder.
The Maryland Autism Waiver provides eligible participants with access to specialized services in home and community settings. Autism Waiver services include supports such as Intensive Individual Support Services (IISS), Respite Care, and Family Consultation.
- Families interested in the Autism Waiver can begin by contacting the Autism Waiver Registry.
- Children must meet the applicable diagnostic, financial, medical, and program eligibility requirements.
- The program uses a registry and waiting-list process, so families may wish to register as early as possible.
- Once enrolled in the program, families can select from approved Autism Waiver providers.
Getting a Diagnosis
If your child has not yet received an autism diagnosis, or your family is seeking an additional evaluation, these organizations can be helpful starting points.
Kennedy Krieger Institute
Autism evaluation, diagnostic, treatment, and family support resources based in Baltimore, Maryland.
Visit Kennedy Krieger →Children’s National Hospital
Pediatric specialty services and developmental evaluation resources for children and families throughout the Washington metropolitan area.
Visit Children’s National →CDC — Learn the Signs. Act Early.
Developmental milestone information and free resources designed to help parents understand and monitor early childhood development.
Explore CDC Resources →National Organizations & Support
These organizations provide additional information, advocacy, research, educational resources, and community support.
Autism Speaks
Family tools, educational guides, resource information, and support resources.
Visit Website →Autism Society of America
Community programming, education, advocacy, local affiliates, and support resources.
Visit Website →Autistic Self Advocacy Network
Advocacy and educational resources centered on autistic voices, perspectives, and rights.
Visit Website →NICHD — National Institutes of Health
Research-based information about autism, development, health, interventions, and related topics.
Visit Website →Getting Started, Step by Step.
Navigating autism services can involve many steps. Breaking the process into smaller pieces can make it easier to understand what to do next.
Contact the Autism Waiver Registry
Contact the registry at 1-866-417-3480 to learn about registration and the current Maryland Autism Waiver process.
Organize Your Documentation
Keep your child’s diagnostic and other relevant records organized so they are available when requested during the process.
Connect With Your Child’s School Team
Your child’s school or local school system may be able to connect your family with educational supports, IEP services, and additional resources.
Explore Your Provider Options
When your family reaches the provider-selection stage, learn about available providers and ask questions about services, staffing, communication, and how support is individualized.
Ask Questions Along the Way
You do not have to understand every part of the process immediately. If you have questions about Autism Waiver services, the Abilis team is happy to help you understand your next step.
You Don’t Have to Navigate It Alone.
Our team can help families better understand Autism Waiver services and answer questions about the supports provided through Abilis Autism in Action.
Answer Questions
Have questions about IISS, Respite Care, or Family Consultation? We’re happy to explain how our services work.
Understand Your Options
We can help you understand the services Abilis provides so you can determine what may fit your family’s needs.
Connect With Our Team
Reach out when you’re ready to learn more about Abilis or discuss your family’s support needs.
Not Sure Where to Start? Let’s Connect.
Every family’s situation is different. Whether you’re learning about the Autism Waiver, exploring services, or looking for an approved provider, reach out to our team.