Logy Bay Castle, NL
Resources for Newfoundland and Labrador
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 Newfoundland and Labrador.
How to Get a Diagnostic Assessment
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.
Intervention Services (Direct Home Service Program - Intensive Applied Behaviour Analysis Program)
This program is available for children up to grade 3 with a diagnosis of ASD.
Services use evidence-based early intervention techniques.
Services are delivered by regional CMS staff known as senior therapists.
Direct home-based training is provided to families and home therapists.
Visit the official website of the Department of Health and Community Services of the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador for more information.
Autism Funding
Below are some general steps to follow to help you navigate the funding process for autism much easier.
Special Child Welfare Allowance
After getting a diagnosis of autism, you may apply for special child welfare allowance to receive funding to support the needs of your child.
You will need to make an application to the Regional Health Authority (RHA):
A home visit will be conducted
Information regarding the child’s disabilities will be collected
Information regarding the family's financial situation will be collected
Corresponding documents will be collected
A social worker will walk you through the process and make recommendations regarding services and support.
For more information, contact your Regional Health Authority (Disability Services).
Building a Support Team
After you receive the autism funding, use it to build a support team.
Your support team could potentially include:
Behaviour Interventionists (BI)
Implement strategies outlined in a behaviour plan of intervention designed by a supervising professional
Help children build life skills
Care Providers
Provide medical care/treatment
Speech-Language Pathologists (SLP)
Develop communication skills
Introduce communication tools
Help with oral motor skill development (eating, drinking, swallowing, etc.)
Provide assessment, diagnosis, or consultation
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 Newfoundland and Labrador. Feel free to share some with us should you have any more!