Your Central Hub for Autism Support in Southern California
ASF’s Resource Center connects families, individuals, and caregivers to trusted programs, tools, and organizations. Whether you’re newly navigating a diagnosis or looking for advanced support for adults, you’ll find organized, credible information to help you at every stage.
General Information:
-Information on Autism Spectrum Disorder for Families
-National Institute of Child Health's Information on Autism in Children
-Center for Excellence in Developmental Disabilities
-Children's Hospital Los Angeles: A University Center for Excellence in Developmental Disabilities Education, Research and Service.
Tools:
Resource / Program
In-Home Supportive Services (IHSS)
Provides in-home assistance such as personal care, daily living support, and paramedical services to help individuals maintain independence.
What It Offers
Many families aren’t aware that IHSS also supports children and adults with disabilities, it can enhance comfort and autonomy at home.
Why It’s Helpful
Where to Start
Apply through your county social services office
Regional Center Services (via Department of Developmental Services)
Connects individuals and families with case managers, assessments, and ongoing support coordination.
What It Offers
Regional Centers are often a family’s first step toward personalized service planning and lifelong support.
Why It’s Helpful
Where to Start
Visit dds.ca.gov to find your local Regional Center.
Easterseals Southern California – Autism Services
Offers diagnostic evaluations, therapy, life skills programs, and community inclusion support.
What It Offers
Easterseals has multiple Southern California locations and a wide range of services for both children and adults on the spectrum.
Why It’s Helpful
Where to Start
California Autism Network
Focuses on life skills, employment preparation, and independent living for teens and adults.
What It Offers
This fills the crucial gap in post-school transition, helping autistic individuals pursue meaningful work and self-sufficiency
Why It’s Helpful
Where to Start
Exceptional Minds (Los Angeles)
A professional training studio that teaches digital arts and media production to autistic adults.
What It Offers
A leading example of how creativity and neurodiversity can drive innovation and employment opportunities.
Why It’s Helpful
Where to Start
Caregiver Resource Centers (CRCs)
Provide education, counseling, and resource connections for caregivers supporting loved ones with disabilities
What It Offers
CRCs help caregivers strengthen their knowledge, well-being, and access to
local supports
Why It’s Helpful
Where to Start
Find your local CRC at caregiveroc.org or through the statewide network.
Help Me Grow (County Programs)
Offers free developmental screenings, referrals, and resources for young children and families.
What It Offers
An excellent starting point for early intervention and developmental guidance, especially before school age.
Why It’s Helpful
Where to Start
Available through LA, Orange, and other counties
University-Based Autism Centers
Colleges such as UCSB and UCSD provide social and behavioral programs, research-based interventions, and adult services.
What It Offers
These programs offer evidence-based approaches and inclusive community spaces for continuous growth.
Why It’s Helpful
Where to Start
Example: UCSB Koegel Autism Center
Local Peer & Family Networks
Groups that bring together individuals, parents, and advocates for shared learning and connection.
What It Offers
These spaces foster belonging, collaboration, and the exchange of real-life strategies and resources.
Why It’s Helpful
Where to Start
Check local autism support groups through Psychology Today