Kansas Local Autism Resources

Starting the journey after receiving a diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) can feel like navigating a complex maze. In Kansas, however, families are supported by a dedicated infrastructure of state programs, advocacy groups and research-backed training centers.

Whether you are looking for early intervention funding, special education guidance or a community of peers, the Sunflower State has a wealth of resources designed to help your child flourish.

At Blue Gems ABA in Kansas, we believe that applied behavior analysis (ABA therapy) is most effective when it is part of a holistic, well-supported lifestyle. While our team provides evidence-based ABA therapy tailored to your child’s unique needs, we want to ensure you have the full toolkit of Kansas resources at your disposal.

Below is a guide to some of the most vital, local resources for autism in Kansas.

Lenexa Kansas Location
Overland Park Location

Table Of Contents

Kansas Department for Aging and Disability Services (KDADS) Autism Waiver

The Autism Waiver is a critical resource for families with young children. It provides funding for specialized services including respite care and parent support to help children ages 0-5 remain in their family homes rather than requiring institutional care.

Because this waiver has specific eligibility requirements and often a waiting list, families should apply as soon as a diagnosis is received. Once a child turns 5, they may transition to the Intellectual/Developmental Disability (I/DD) waiver for long-term support.

You can contact them at (785) 296-4986 or kdads.ks.gov.

Families Together Inc.

Navigating the special education system can be overwhelming. Families Together serves as the Parent Training and Information Center for the state of Kansas.

They offer free workshops, one-on-one assistance with IEP (Individualized Education Program) meetings and transition planning for young adults. Their mission is to empower parents to be the most effective advocates possible for their children within the school system.

They can be reached at (800) 264-6343, and more information is available at their website, familiestogetherinc.org.

Kansas Council on Developmental Disabilities (KCDD)

The KCDD is focused on big picture advocacy. They work to improve the systems that serve people with developmental disabilities in Kansas.

They are an excellent resource for staying informed on legislative changes, self-advocacy training and projects aimed at increasing community inclusion across the state.

Call them at (785) 296-2608, or get more information online at kcdd.org.

Kansas Center for Autism Research and Training (K-CART)

The Kansas Center for Autism Research and Training (K-CART) was established through the University of Kansas. It is a multidisciplinary center dedicated to service, training and research.

They provide families with a bridge to the latest evidence-based practices and connect them with qualified diagnostic and treatment providers. K-CART offers valuable educational resources and opportunities to participate in cutting-edge research studies.

They can be reached at (913) 897-8471 or autism.ku.edu.

Autism Society — The Heartland

The Autism Society-The Heartland (ASH) is all about community. They serve families in Kansas and Missouri by providing sensory-friendly events, social groups for teens and adults, and monthly support meetings for caregivers.

ASH is the perfect place to meet other local families who share similar experiences, providing a vital sense of belonging and practical advice.

You can gain more information by calling (913) 706-0042 or visiting asaheartland.org.

Family-to-Family Health Information Center (F2F)

Operated through Families Together, the F2F center was designed to help families navigate the healthcare side of an autism diagnosis. They assist with understanding insurance coverage, finding specialists and managing the unique healthcare needs that often accompany ASD.

Their staff are parents of children with special needs, and they offer a peer-led perspective on the medical journey.

You can contact them via phone at (800) 499-9443 or email at [email protected], or you can gain more information at their website, familiestogetherinc.org/family-to-family-health-information-center.

Blue Gems ABA Provides Direct Support to Children with Autism

Finding the right resources in Kansas is the first step toward building a bright future for your child. By combining the advocacy of groups such as Families Together with the clinical expertise of research centers such as K-CART, you can create a comprehensive support network that evolves as your child grows.

At Blue Gems ABA, we are honored to be a part of that journey.

Our team of Board Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBAs) and Registered Behavior Technicians (RBTs) works closely with Kansas families to provide personalized ABA therapy that builds life-changing skills. We focus on communication, social interaction and independence, ensuring that every milestone is celebrated.

To learn more, please contact us today.