Entry into the Early Intervention Program
The autism journey is often challenging but at the same time very rewarding. You are never alone, there is always someone to talk to and share your journey with. You just need to pick up the phone and the staff at Early Intervention are here to help you. It is important to talk about any difficulties you may be experiencing before they build up. We all share a passion for working
with children with autism and their families. We see how, even though challenging, the many wonderful gifts that children with autism bring to the world- they certainly lighten up our lives, and with every challenge there is always an even greater reward waiting around the corner. Every day is different and every day each child with autism teaches us something new.
The Autism Association of Western Australia has been providing early intervention services for children with autism and their families for just over 20 years. The Early Intervention Program has experienced staff who implement programs aimed at developing the child's independent functioning, to increase family resilience by strengthening and empowering families and to facilitate participation of the child with autism, across settings whilst also supporting a smooth transition to school.
Diagnosis
If you are in the process of going through a diagnosis - we are here to help. You can make a time to meet with one of the members of our team to talk about support you can access in the mean time. Contact Angelique on (08) 9284 0106 to make a time to meet with a staff member at Early Intervention and to also find out about our very popular My Time parent support groups for families.
How to access funded services
Criteria for enrolment in our Early Intervention Program requires a formal diagnosis of an Autism Spectrum Disorder from a transdisciplinary team. The team of diagnosticians includes a Paediatrician, who oversees the diagnostic process, a Psychologist and a Speech Therapist. Families can then access the Autism Association Early Intervention Program in two ways:
State funded early intervention places
Families can access state funded places once they receive a letter from the Disability Services Commission stating their eligibility.
Commonwealth funded early intervention places
Families can access Commonwealth funding through FaHCSIA. Families should make an appointment with an Autism Advisor at the Autism Association of Western Australia to access this funding.
Interim Support for Families
The Autism Association provides support services to assist families awaiting diagnosis or a place in an early intervention service
What parents have said about the program
" No one can understand what 'unconditional love' is until you become a parent. But to have a child with special needs even the simple things can be overwhelming. So to see a smile on my child's face when he arrives and is greeted by one of your staff bring joy and hope that there is something wonderful arising from a somewhat difficult situation. My heartfelt thanks."
"Dear everybody at the Autism Association. I cannot thank you enough for all the help and support you have given me and my family and of course my child. The great organisation has been a shining light and a great breath of fresh air and thanks heaps for everything."
