the autism guide

Empowering Autism families through compassionate support, resources, and guidance — starting the moment you receive a diagnosis.

You're Not Alone — We’re Here from Day One

Just Received A Diagnosed for your child? Here's Where to Begin

    • Regional & California Resouces

    • Medicaid: Services, Medi-Cal & IHSS

    • School Support & Advocacy

    • Starting the Self-Determination Program (SDP)

    • Sensory Sensitivities and Support

    • Communication for Nonspeakers

    • Supporting Transitions & Dysregulation

    • Co-regulation Strategies

    • IEP/504 Consultation and Planning

    • Caregiver Wellness

We know how overwhelming the first steps can be. The Autism Guide is here to help you feel confident, informed, and supported.

We’ll walk you through:

  • Getting support from the San Diego Regional Center (SDRC)

  • Accessing eligible free parent support with The Autism Guide

  • Building a care team & personalized roadmap of support

  • Discover services, funding options, and California resources to boost your family’s financial wellness

  • Connecting with other parents & a community who get it

  • We’ll guide you every step of the way—including IEP prep and advocacy tools to confidently support your child.

REGIONAL CENTER SERVICES - EXPLAINED SIMPLY

01/

Apply for Regional Center Services

If your child is under 3 or has received an autism diagnosis, the Regional Center can offer support and funding for services like therapy, respite care, and even coaching through programs like The Autism Guide for eligible clients.

02/

We’ll Help You With

  • Apply to regional center

  • Understand what’s covered

  • Learn about the Self-Determination Program

  • Know how to request vendors or services like ours and be your child best advocate.

03/

Confident Decision Making

With parent support and caregiver wellness, we ensure you have the energy and clarity to make confident decisions & foster growth for yourself and your loved one.

REAL PARENT WINS

  • “Working with The Autism Guide has been the greatest gift to navigating our autism journey. From the time my son was diagnosed at age 3, Monique has helped guide me, coach me, and truly support me through the ups, downs, and everything in between. She has taught me how to be the best advocate for my son and has helped me decipher his IEP and push for (and receive) a 1:1 aide, helped me navigate the benefits that the regional center offers (such as camps & respite care), and helped me tackle the IHSS application with ease. I highly recommend any autism parent work Monique, she is extremely informed, knows how to help you advocate for what your child deserves, and does it all with a layer of calmness that makes you feel like you're going to be okay.”

    Carly K

    (Carley Kennedy Designs)

  • “I cannot thank Monique from The Autism Guide enough, for all she has done for me. She has healed lifelong trauma and pain that I have been holding onto for far too long. She has pushed and inspired me to find ways to fill my cup, to explore new passions, and confirm my purpose in this life. Most importantly, she has given me the tools to become a healthier and happier Mom. I'm so blessed and grateful for you Monique. 💛.”

    Stephanie B

  • “I’m so lucky to have met Monique from The Autism Guide! When I first learned about my son’s diagnosis, I felt helpless and overwhelmed. There was no time to do my own research. With Monique’s guidance on the different resources and how to navigate these complex programs, I was able to get the support he needs, as a result, I’m happier. Her work is so impactful! ”

    Valerie T

  • Maybe you have a creative project to share with the world

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STAY CONNECTED

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View fullsize As we honor National Family Caregivers Month, we’re thrilled to announce that our upcoming wellness experience @foxpointfarms , Gratitude & Grace, A Wellness Day for Caregivers SOLD OUT within days! 💖 High Support Mamas - Prepare for a r
View fullsize ✨ Gratitude and Grace: A Wellness Day for Caregivers ✨ We’re thrilled to invite support needs caregivers to a rejuvenating wellness experience, curated with love by community partners, @theshineprojectfoundation @sunrise.therapies & @theau
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