Steps to Take After Autism Diagnosis: A Guide

Key Points:

• Getting an autism diagnosis can feel overwhelming, but understanding what to do next provides direction and reassurance.
• Early intervention services like ABA therapy can significantly improve long-term developmental outcomes.
• Building a support network and educating yourself as a parent are critical parts of the post-diagnosis journey.

Receiving an autism diagnosis can feel like stepping into unfamiliar territory, but knowing what comes next can make all the difference. According to the CDC, 17% of U.S. children aged 3–17 have a developmental disability, including autism. This growing prevalence underscores the importance of timely support, education, and advocacy following a diagnosis.

This article outlines the most important next steps after your child’s autism diagnosis. From securing essential documentation to starting therapies and building a care team, each step is designed to help you support your child’s growth with confidence and clarity.

What to Do After an Autism Diagnosis?

After an autism diagnosis, the most important steps include learning about the condition, seeking appropriate therapies, building a care team, and accessing support services. Each of these actions helps lay a strong foundation for your child’s development.

Whether your child is newly diagnosed or you’re revisiting their care plan, these steps are designed to support growth and create structure in what can often feel like an uncertain time. 

Below are some common steps to consider after an autism diagnosis:.

Step 1: Take Time to Process and Learn

Before jumping into therapies and schedules, take time to understand the diagnosis. This doesn’t mean pausing services—it means giving yourself space to become an informed advocate.

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is not a one-size-fits-all label. It affects each child differently. The better you understand your child’s specific strengths and challenges, the more effectively you can support them.

Key things to focus on:

• What core areas are impacted (e.g., communication, behavior, social skills)?
• Does your child have any co-occurring conditions (e.g., ADHD, anxiety)?
• How do sensory sensitivities affect daily routines?

You don’t need to become a specialist overnight, but familiarizing yourself with reliable sources and talking to professionals helps make sense of what’s ahead.

Step 2: Secure a Written Diagnostic Report

One of the most important next steps is to make sure you receive a full, written evaluation. This document is often required to:

• Access therapy services
• Qualify for school-based accommodations
• Apply for state or federal disability supports

Make sure the report includes:

• Diagnostic tools used (e.g., ADOS-2, DSM-5 criteria)
• Functional observations
• Recommendations for treatment
• Any referrals to specialists or services

Keep both digital and physical copies. You’ll need them often during the first year following the diagnosis.

Step 3: Explore Early Intervention or School-Aged Services

Accessing early intervention can make a major difference in developmental progress. If your child is under 3 years old, you may qualify for services through your state’s early intervention program. If your child is older, you’ll likely work with your local school district.

Common services to explore:

• Speech-language therapy
• Occupational therapy
• ABA therapy (Applied Behavior Analysis)
• Developmental preschool programs
• Social skills groups

Start by contacting your state’s early intervention agency or requesting an evaluation through your child’s school. These programs are often free or subsidized.

Step 4: Build a Support Team

An autism diagnosis usually means working with a range of professionals. Putting together a strong care team ensures your child’s needs are covered across different developmental areas.

Your team may include:

1. Pediatrician: Coordinates care and tracks overall development
2. ABA therapist: Supports behavior, communication, and life skills
3. Speech-language pathologist (SLP): Helps with speech and social communication
4. Occupational therapist (OT): Addresses sensory issues and motor skills
5. Psychologist or counselor: Supports emotional regulation and mental health

Make sure everyone is aligned in goals and communicates regularly. If you feel overwhelmed managing this team, consider asking for a care coordinator or social worker through your local services agency.

Step 5: Apply for Services and Insurance Coverage

Many therapies—especially ABA—require prior authorization or formal approval through your insurance provider. Now is the time to:

• Review your insurance policy for autism-specific coverage
• Ask providers about what documents are required
• Submit necessary paperwork, referrals, or prior authorizations
• Inquire about in-network vs. out-of-network options

Some families also qualify for state-funded Medicaid waivers or supplemental services, even if they have private insurance. Check your state’s disability or developmental services department for eligibility requirements.

Step 6: Set Realistic Goals for Your Child

Setting goals can help you focus and celebrate progress. These might include communication milestones, daily living skills, or reduced challenging behaviors. Goals should be:

• Measurable (“Use 5 new words consistently”)
• Time-bound (“By the end of 3 months”)
• Individualized to your child’s needs

Work with your care team to develop these goals and track progress. Avoid comparing your child to others—even children on the spectrum develop at different rates.

Step 7: Learn About and Start ABA Therapy

Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) is one of the most widely recommended treatments for children with autism. ABA therapy helps identify behavior patterns, teaches new skills, and uses positive reinforcement to shape progress.

Why ABA therapy is often a first-line intervention:

• Individualized programs are tailored to each child’s strengths and needs
• Therapy can address a wide range of skills: from communication to self-help to behavior management
• ABA is data-driven and goal-oriented, helping parents track real progress

Whether delivered in-home or in a clinic setting, ABA often becomes the cornerstone of a child’s care plan—especially during early childhood.

Step 8: Join a Parent Support Network

You don’t have to navigate the autism journey alone. Connecting with other parents can offer emotional support, helpful tips, and a sense of belonging. Look for:

• Local parent support groups
• Online forums and Facebook communities
• Autism organizations hosting family events

Hearing from others who’ve been in your shoes helps you prepare for each stage—while also reminding you that progress, even when slow, is possible.

Step 9: Prepare for School and Advocacy

If your child is school-aged or about to start kindergarten, you’ll need to work with the school system to ensure appropriate accommodations are in place.

Steps to take:

1. Request a special education evaluation (in writing)
2. Attend an IEP (Individualized Education Plan) meeting
3. Discuss goals, services, and classroom placements
4. Monitor your child’s progress and advocate as needed

Keep in mind that you are your child’s most important advocate. Don’t hesitate to ask questions, request changes, or seek support from an education advocate if needed.

Step 10: Take Care of Yourself, Too

Parenting a child with autism requires time, patience, and emotional energy. It’s easy to overlook your own well-being, but staying strong for your child means caring for yourself, too.

Ways to maintain balance:

• Seek Counseling or Parent Coaching: Professional support can help you process emotions, manage stress, and build confidence in navigating your child’s needs.
• Schedule Regular Breaks and Hobbies: Time for yourself—whether a walk or a hobby—helps prevent burnout and renews your energy as a caregiver.
• Accept Help from Family and Friends: Let trusted people assist with daily tasks so you can recharge and focus on meaningful time with your child.
• Set Healthy Personal Boundaries: Boundaries protect your emotional capacity, allowing you to support your child without becoming overwhelmed or depleted.

Your child benefits most when you’re supported, informed, and emotionally grounded. Don’t hesitate to ask for help—your well-being matters.

Help Your Child Thrive With Customized ABA Therapy 

One of the most impactful next steps after receiving an autism diagnosis is enrolling your child in evidence-based therapy. Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy has been shown to improve communication, adaptive behavior, and quality of life for children on the spectrum.

Astra ABA proudly offers ABA therapy in Indiana, North Carolina, and Kansas, delivering compassionate, personalized care rooted in research and shaped by your child’s goals. Contact us today to learn how our therapists can partner with you in building a brighter, more connected future for your child.