Lake Louise, AB
Resources for Alberta
Below is a compilation of resources for getting a diagnosis, applying for funding, building a support team, and securing extra support and human resources pertaining to the province of Alberta.
How to Get a Diagnostic Assessment
Visit a family doctor
Referral to a specialist such as a developmental pediatrician, child psychiatrist/psychologist, neuropsychologist, speech therapist, or an occupational therapist for an assessment
— Or —
Visit the Autism Spectrum Disorder Diagnostic Clinic in Calgary for a tertiary level assessment (more information below)
Extra People to Go to for Support
Other than your family doctor or pediatrician, there are extra people that you can go to for support.
Autism Spectrum Disorder Diagnostic Clinic
The clinic provides information and services:
Tertiary level diagnostic assessments
After the assessment, the referring physician or primary care provider will provide ongoing care and refer you to other programs and services
Consultation services to answer questions regarding ASD
To access services:
Visit: Calgary 3820 24 Avenue NW Suite 200
Call: 403 955 5900
Visit the official website of Alberta Health Services for more information.
Autism Funding
Below are some general steps to follow to help you navigate the funding process for autism much easier.
Family Support for Children with Disabilities Program (FSCD)
After getting a diagnosis of autism, you may apply for support and funding from the Family Support for Children with Disabilities program (FSCD).
To inquire about applications and other services in person, visit an FSCD office or a Family resource centre near you.
After your application is approved, you will work with a service provider to create a legal contract stating the service and funding you will be receiving.
For more information, please visit the official website of the Government of Alberta.
Building a Support Team
After you receive the autism funding, use it to build a support team.
The support team might include:
Behaviour Consultants (BC)
Assess child development and behaviour
Design and implement a behaviour plan of intervention
Coach parents
Care Providers
Provide medical care/treatments
Educators
Assist in the learning and knowledge intake of the child
Aid the child in following provided instructions
Speech-Language Pathologists (SLP)
Develop communication skills
Introduce communication tools
Help with oral motor skill development (eating, drinking, swallowing, etc.)
Support Workers
Work with the child to promote independence and wellbeing
Provide direct physical help when called for
Therapists
Work directly with the child
Practice skills with the child
Work towards individual goals with the child
Additional Community Programs and Resources
Here is a non-exhaustive list of other available programs and resources within Alberta. Feel free to share some with us should you have any more!