If your child has a disability or developmental delay, there are programs that can evaluate your child, provide services, and help you understand your rights.
Find Your Parent Center (Parent Training and Information Centers)
Center for Parent Information and Resources
A finder for the nearly 100 Parent Training and Information Centers (PTIs) and Community Parent Resource Centers (CPRCs) in the US and territories. These centers work with families of infants, toddlers, children, and youth with disabilities, birth to 26, and help parents take part in their children's education and development.
Where
Nationwide
Cost
Cost varies
Who it's for
For families of children and youth with disabilities, birth to 26. Each Parent Center sets its own services. See the official site for current rules.
Alabama Children's Cabinet and partner state agencies
Alabama Family Central is a one-stop website that collects state agency resources on education, health care, child services, and family support. It highlights the free, confidential Parenting Assistance Line (PAL), early intervention, and Help Me Grow.
Where
Alabama
Cost
Free
Who it's for
For Alabama parents, family members, caregivers, and teachers. Each listed program sets its own eligibility.
AL PTI gives free information and training to Alabama families of children with disabilities from birth to age 26, helping them advocate for their children. Services include individual help preparing for IEP, 504, and other school meetings, workshops on special education law and disabilities, and a resource library.
Where
Alabama
Cost
Free
Who it's for
For Alabama families with children ages birth to 26 with disabilities.
Alabama Department of Rehabilitation Services (ADRS)
Early Intervention provides supports and services for infants and toddlers under age three with a developmental delay or a diagnosis that can delay development. Services focus on teaching parents and caregivers how to help the child learn through everyday activities, guided by an Individualized Family Service Plan (IFSP).
For children from birth to age 3 who have a diagnosed condition likely to cause developmental delay, or a delay in cognitive, physical, communication, social/emotional, or adaptive development. Eligibility is determined after an evaluation with an assigned service coordinator. Referrals can be made through the Child Find line or NeverTooEarlyAL.org.
Alabama Department of Mental Health (ADMH), Office of Child & Family Services
ADMH's Office of Child & Family Services supports children and families statewide with infant and early childhood mental health, autism services, mental illness treatment, adolescent substance use treatment, intensive home-based services, and suicide prevention. Child and adolescent mental health services are offered in all 67 counties.
Where
Alabama
Cost
Cost varies
Who it's for
Varies by service. Mental health services are for youth who meet criteria for Serious Emotional Disturbance up to their 21st birthday. Autism services are for Medicaid-eligible children and youth from birth through age 20. Adolescent substance use treatment is for ages 13 to 18 through certified providers. Providers decide eligibility.
Alabama Department of Rehabilitation Services (ADRS)
CRS is a statewide system of services for children with special health care needs and their families, and for adults with hemophilia, run through 14 community-based offices. Services include specialty clinics, care coordination, information and referral, and a Parent Connection program with parent consultants who have raised children with special health care needs.
Where
Alabama
Cost
Cost varies
Who it's for
For Alabama children and youth with special health care needs and their families, and adults with hemophilia. CRS decides eligibility.
ADMH's Division of Developmental Disabilities provides services and supports for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families through Medicaid waivers. Its call center handles first screening and referral for the waiver waiting list.
Where
Alabama
Cost
Cost varies
Who it's for
For people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Waiver services depend on each person's level of care and assessed needs, and ADMH decides eligibility for the waiting list.
The Special Families Project provides prevention services to parents of children with disabilities to help them parent their children and connect with other families and community resources, reducing parental stress and isolation. It also trains agency staff and the community on disability issues.
Where
Alabama
Cost
Cost varies
Who it's for
For parents of children with disabilities or special needs. Contact APEC to confirm availability in your area.
Alaska Early Intervention/Infant Learning Program (EI/ILP)
Alaska Department of Health, Senior and Disabilities Services
A statewide early intervention program for families of infants and toddlers, birth to age three, with developmental delays or concerns. Services can include screening and evaluation, home visits, physical, occupational, speech, or developmental therapy, specialized equipment, service coordination, and help moving into services at age 3, all set out in an Individualized Family Service Plan.
For Alaska families with children from birth to age three who have developmental concerns. Parents can contact their local ILP provider or the state office for a free developmental screening; services are in all Alaska communities through nonprofits, health corporations, and school districts. See the official site for current rules.
An independent nonprofit law firm that provides legal advocacy for people with disabilities anywhere in Alaska. Requests for help go through an online intake form.
For people with disabilities anywhere in Alaska. DLC sets yearly advocacy priorities, which shape what it can help with. See the official site for current rules.
Governor's Council on Disabilities and Special Education (GCDSE)
Alaska Department of Health
A federally mandated state council that advocates for inclusive services, provides oversight, and helps Alaskans with disabilities and their families make informed decisions about education, employment, health, and community life. All council meetings are open to the public, and families can submit public comment or join a committee.
For Alaskans with disabilities, their families, and anyone who wants a say in disability and special education policy. It is an advocacy and policy council, not a direct service provider. See the official site for current rules.
Help Me Grow Alaska connects children and families to the services they need. Family Support Specialists help parents and caregivers find resources on child development and ongoing supports, such as therapists, medical providers, and treatment programs in Alaska.
Where
Alaska
Cost
Free
Who it's for
For Alaska parents and anyone responsible for a child. Reach a Family Support Specialist through the page's contact links. See the official site for current rules.
Stone Soup Group (Alaska Parent Training and Information Center)
Stone Soup Group
Stone Soup Group supports Alaska families who care for children with special needs. Parent Navigators help families find services and resources, prepare for IEP meetings, and connect with other families, statewide and in person, virtually, or by phone. It also offers trainings and support groups, most of them virtual and free for families.
For families of people with any developmental disability or any concern about development; no diagnosis or referral is needed. Start with the online intake or call the office. See the official site for current rules.
AzEIP is Arizona's statewide early intervention (IDEA Part C) system for infants and toddlers with disabilities or developmental delays. It helps families support their child's learning and growth through everyday activities. Anyone concerned that a child isn't meeting milestones can make a referral.
For Arizona infants and toddlers under age 3 who may not be meeting developmental milestones in play, learning, communication, movement, vision, or hearing. See the official site for current rules.
Southwest Human Development, with support from First Things First
A free, bilingual, confidential helpline for Arizona parents, parents-to-be, and caregivers of children from birth to age 5. Early childhood specialists, nurses, mental health counselors, and disabilities specialists answer questions about sleep, feeding, tantrums, potty training, development, health and safety, and child care. It includes a Fussy Baby Program for soothing babies.
Encircle Families helps parents and caregivers of children with disabilities and special health care needs, at no cost to families. It offers one-on-one Parent-to-Parent Support matches with trained Parent Leaders, help navigating special education and IEPs, workshops, NICU parent support, and parent leadership training.
DHS Developmental Disabilities Services Intake and Referral
Arkansas Department of Human Services
DHS's Division of Developmental Disabilities Services has an intake and referral unit that helps families of people with developmental disabilities or delays figure out programs, eligibility, and how to apply. It can help with early intervention, the CES Waiver for home and community-based services, autism services, Early Intervention Day Treatment, and Children's Special Services.
Arkansas Department of Education, Office of Special Education
First Connections is Arkansas's statewide early intervention program (IDEA Part C) for children from birth to their 3rd birthday with a developmental delay or disability. Early interventionists work with families at home or in everyday places like childcare, parks, and libraries, building a plan that helps the child take part in daily life and gives adults tools to support learning.
For children from birth to 36 months with a diagnosed condition or a delay. Anyone, including parents, grandparents, and family friends, can make a referral, and no diagnosis is needed, only a suspected delay. The developmental evaluation and assessment are at no out-of-pocket cost to the family. See the official site for current rules.
The Center for Exceptional Families (Arkansas Parent Training and Information Center)
The Center for Exceptional Families
The Center for Exceptional Families (TCFEF) is Arkansas's only Parent Training and Information Center. It gives information, training, resources, and one-on-one support to families of children and young adults with disabilities, helping them understand special education rights and processes, take part in education decisions, and connect with services. Parent Mentors serve each area of the state.
California Department of Education, Special Education Division (with Seeds of Partnership)
Parent-led nonprofit centers, funded by the California Department of Education, that give families of children and young adults with disabilities specialized training, peer-to-peer support, information, and referrals. They help parents understand their child's educational needs and the IEP process and work with schools. There are 41 FEC regions covering all 58 counties.
Where
California
Cost
Cost varies
Who it's for
For parents and families of children and young adults with disabilities ages 3 to 22 in California. Services vary by region. Use the Find an FEC tool (https://www.californiafamilyempowermentcenters.org/finderTool/) to find the center for your county or, in Los Angeles County, your school district. See the official site for current rules.
Helps individuals, family members, and advocates who have questions about legal rights related to a disability. It may represent some callers directly, and gives others general information, referrals, or self-advocacy materials.
For individuals with disabilities, family members, and advocates. It cannot represent every caller; it decides based on the merits of the case, the person's ability to self-advocate, other advocacy sources, its priorities, and its resources. It does not discriminate based on immigration status. It does not provide direct representation in family law, criminal law, bankruptcy, or evictions, or help with guardianship, special needs trusts, or Social Security eligibility appeals. See the official site for current rules.
California Department of Developmental Services (DDS)
California's early intervention program for infants and toddlers (birth to age 3) with developmental delays or at risk of a developmental disability, and their families. Services are statewide and family-centered, coordinated through regional centers and family resource centers.
For children from birth to 3 years old with, or at risk for, developmental delays or disabilities. Parents have specific rights under the program. Eligibility is determined through the regional center. See the official site for current rules.
Family Resource Centers Network of California (FRCNCA)
A statewide coalition of Early Start Family Resource Centers. These local centers give families of infants and toddlers with disabilities parent-to-parent support, trainings, resources, referrals, and help with the transition when a child turns three; most staff are parents of children with disabilities.
Where
California
Cost
Cost varies
Who it's for
For families with a child from birth to three with a disability; many centers also serve families of older children, youth, and adults with disabilities. Use the map on the page to find a center near you. See the official site for current rules.
Early Start Family Resource Network and Family Empowerment Center
Family Resource Network
Parent-to-parent support across Riverside and San Bernardino counties for families of children who are at risk for or have delays or disabilities. Services include education, resources, training, and help navigating systems and linking to local services.
Where
Riverside County and San Bernardino County, California
Family Empowerment Centers serve families of children and young adults with disabilities ages 3 to 22. It is also the Early Start Family Resource Center (birth to 3) and runs a Community Navigator Program for the same counties, per the page. See the official site for current rules.
Services and supports for families of children and young adults with disabilities, including one-on-one service navigation, IEP coaching and mentoring, mediation and IEP facilitation, peer parent mentoring, and workshops on education, regional center, and other services.
Family Empowerment Centers serve families of children and young adults with disabilities ages 3 to 22. It also serves as an Early Start Family Resource Center (ages 0 to 3) and runs a Community Navigator Program for regional center clients, per the page. See the official site for current rules.
Has supported parents and families of children with disabilities since 1976 and serves 12 California counties. It offers in-person, virtual, and group services.
Where
Fresno County, Kings County, Madera County and Mariposa County, California
Family Empowerment Centers serve families of children and young adults with disabilities ages 3 to 22. EPU's FEC area is Fresno, Kings, Madera, and Mariposa counties. It is also a Parent Training and Information Center and a Family Resource Center, per the page. See the official site for current rules.
Family Focus Resource and Empowerment Center (CSUN)
Offers monthly IEP training in English and Spanish, a free IEP guide, transition-to-preschool workshops with local school districts, and yearly All Abilities Resource Fairs in Northridge and Lancaster.
Where
Los Angeles County, California
Cost
Cost varies
Who it's for
Family Empowerment Centers serve families of children and young adults with disabilities ages 3 to 22. Its FEC area is Los Angeles Catchment Area A (Antelope Valley, Santa Clarita Valley, Las Virgenes, and other districts listed on the page, plus part of LAUSD). It is also an Early Start Resource Center and runs a Community Navigator Program for Regional Center clients ages 3 and up. See the official site for current rules.
One-on-one help and family navigation to school services and community resources for Alameda County families of children with disabilities. Staff speak more than 12 languages, and the center hosts workshops, parent cafes, and support groups.
Family Empowerment Centers serve families of children and young adults with disabilities ages 3 to 22. It also runs Early Start (0-2), Help Me Grow (0-5), a Community Navigator program for Regional Center of the East Bay clients, and CalFresh application help, per the page. See the official site for current rules.
Since 1983, Matrix has helped families of children with disabilities navigate and access services. It joined the Marin Center for Independent Living in 2024 and gives no-cost, peer-led support to families of youth with disabilities ages 3 to 22.
Where
Marin County, Solano County, Sonoma County and Napa County, California
Family Empowerment Centers serve families of children and young adults with disabilities ages 3 to 22. Its FEC area is Marin, Solano, and Sonoma counties; it is also an Early Start Family Resource Center for those counties and a Parent Training and Information Center for Solano, Sonoma, Napa, and Marin, per the page. See the official site for current rules.
Gives parents and caregivers information, education, community resources, and referrals to support the development of people with special needs. Staff help families navigate systems, including eligibility with regional centers, insurance, Medi-Cal, and school districts.
Family Empowerment Centers serve families of children and young adults with disabilities ages 3 to 22. Its FEC area is Los Angeles Catchment Area B (Compton, Downey, Lynwood, and Paramount districts, plus part of LAUSD). It is also an Early Start FRC and runs Navigator programs, per the page. See the official site for current rules.
Disability Rights Education & Defense Fund (DREDF)
DREDF's PTI helps families get appropriate education and services for children with disabilities, resolve problems with schools or other agencies, and connect to community resources. It offers trainings in English and Spanish, including a monthly Special Education Academy, and education advocates families can call or email.
Where
Serves 30 counties in California
All 30 counties served by Parent Training and Information Center (PTI)
Alameda County, Alpine County, Amador County, Butte County, Calaveras County, Colusa County, Contra Costa County, Del Norte County, El Dorado County, Glenn County, Humboldt County, Lake County, Lassen County, Mendocino County, Modoc County, Nevada County, Placer County, Plumas County, Sacramento County, San Joaquin County, Shasta County, Sierra County, Siskiyou County, Stanislaus County, Sutter County, Tehama County, Trinity County, Tuolumne County, Yolo County and Yuba County
For parents, youth, and professionals in the 30 Central and Northern California counties listed on the page. Families outside that area can use the California PTI service map. See the official site for current rules.
A nonprofit that helps children and adults with disabilities get the support and services they need through information, training, individual help, and resources. Programs include PHP@IEP, which prepares and goes with a parent to an IEP meeting, Connections California for the transition to adulthood, and weekly support groups led by licensed therapists.
Where
Santa Clara County, San Mateo County, Santa Cruz County, Monterey County and San Benito County, California
Cost
Cost varies
Who it's for
Serves all ages and all disabilities, per the page. It is the FEC for Santa Clara County and a Parent Training and Information Center (birth through 26) that also serves San Mateo, Santa Cruz, Monterey, and San Benito counties. PHP says it is not a law firm or legal service agency. See the official site for current rules.
Parents' Place Family Resource and Empowerment Center
San Gabriel/Pomona Parents' Place
Support for families of children and young adults with special needs across the San Gabriel and Pomona valleys. Services include information, training, IEP and dispute-resolution help, transition to adult life, referrals, and peer support in English, Spanish, Mandarin, Cantonese, and Vietnamese.
It serves families with children ages 0 to 26, and individuals of any age through its Community Navigator Program, per the page. Its FEC area is Los Angeles Catchment Area J (Pasadena, Pomona, West Covina, and other districts listed on the page). See the official site for current rules.
Partnership Family Empowerment Center (Eastern Los Angeles Family Resource Center)
Eastern Los Angeles Family Resource Center
Helps parents, caregivers, and professionals find resources to meet children's developmental, educational, and health care needs. It offers information, referrals, trainings, parent-to-parent emotional support, and support groups for different language and cultural backgrounds, with offices in Alhambra and East Los Angeles.
Family Empowerment Centers serve families of children and young adults with disabilities ages 3 to 22. Its FEC area is Los Angeles Catchment Area C (Alhambra, Montebello, Whittier, and other districts listed on the page, plus part of LAUSD). It is also an Early Start Family Resource Center, per the page. See the official site for current rules.
California Department of Developmental Services (DDS)
A statewide network of 21 community-based nonprofit regional centers that provide assessments, determine eligibility, and offer case management and coordinated services for Californians with developmental disabilities.
Support for Families of Children with Disabilities
Support for Families of Children with Disabilities
Support for San Francisco families of children with disabilities and complex medical needs, ages 0 to 26. Services include workshops, clinics, parent mentors, support groups, case management and navigation, parent leadership training, play groups, and family events.
For San Francisco families of children with disabilities and complex medical needs, ages 0 to 26. It is also San Francisco's Early Start Family Resource Center and a Parent Training and Information / Community Parent Resource Center for special education, per the page. See the official site for current rules.
A nonprofit run by parents and caregivers of children with disabilities that offers training and support to help families navigate special education. It is the Family Empowerment Center for Orange County and parts of Los Angeles County and a federally designated Parent Training and Information Center for Southern California.
Family Empowerment Centers serve families of children and young adults with disabilities ages 3 to 22. TASK's FEC area is Orange County and Los Angeles Catchment Areas E through I (school districts listed on the page). As a PTI it serves Los Angeles, San Diego, Imperial, Orange, Riverside, and San Bernardino counties, per the page. See the official site for current rules.
Information, education, and support for families of children with developmental disabilities. As a Family Empowerment Center it offers training, peer-to-peer support, information and referral, help with the IEP process, and alternative dispute resolution.
Where
Sacramento County, Alpine County, El Dorado County, Nevada County, Placer County and Yolo County, California
Family Empowerment Centers serve families of children and young adults with disabilities ages 3 to 22. WarmLine is also an Early Start Resource Center for children birth to 3 in the same counties, per the page. See the official site for current rules.
Westside Family Resource and Empowerment Center (WFREC)
Westside Family Resource and Empowerment Center
Staffed by parents and family members of people with disabilities, WFREC gives information and navigation support to families of a child or loved one of any age with a disability, chronic illness, or special learning need. Services include parent-to-parent support, one-on-one guidance, trainings, workshops, and support groups.
Family Empowerment Centers serve families of children and young adults with disabilities ages 3 to 22. Its FEC area is Los Angeles Catchment Area D (Beverly Hills, Culver City, Inglewood, Santa Monica-Malibu, and other districts listed on the page, plus part of LAUSD). It is also an Early Start Family Resource Center, per the page. See the official site for current rules.
Early Intervention (EI) Colorado helps babies and toddlers who may need extra support with how they grow and develop. An EI evaluation, at no cost to the family, shows whether a child could use extra support or is on track. Anyone can refer a child online, by phone, email, or fax, and some diagnoses make a child automatically eligible.
For babies and toddlers with a possible developmental concern. A child may be automatically eligible with a diagnosis that is highly likely to cause a significant delay, as decided by a physician panel. Referrals can be made online (English or Spanish), at 833-733-3734, by email at GetStartedwithEI@state.co.us, or by fax to 303-866-5944. See the official site for current rules.
PEAK Parent Center (Colorado Parent Training and Information Center)
PEAK Parent Center
PEAK Parent Center is a Parent Center, founded in 1986, that gives information and training to families of children with disabilities from birth through 26, and to youth self-advocates. Through its Parent Training and Information (PTI) project, trained parent advisors help families understand their rights and the special education and IEP process, find inclusive options, and work with professionals. It offers free community workshops and webinars.
For Colorado families of children with disabilities ages birth through 26, and youth with disabilities up to 26. Services are offered in English and Spanish, with Cultural Mediators for other languages as needed. See the official site for current rules.
Connecticut's Birth to Three System supports infants and toddlers with delays and disabilities as they grow through everyday routines. It contracts with early intervention programs statewide. Anyone can make a referral, though only parents can give permission, and evaluations and services, if eligible, are free for families.
For children under age 3 with a significant developmental delay based on a standardized test, or a doctor-diagnosed condition likely to cause a delay. Refer online (fastest), by calling 1-800-505-7000 or 211, or by fax. Families should hear back from 211 Child Development within 2 business days. See the official site for current rules.
CPAC is a statewide nonprofit that educates, supports, and empowers Connecticut families of children and youth with any disability or chronic condition, ages birth to 26. Parent Consultants help families understand and advocate for their rights under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), and CPAC offers training programs at no cost, webinars, and the Next STEPS parent leadership series on Planning and Placement Team (PPT) meetings.
For Connecticut families of children and youth with disabilities or chronic conditions, birth to 26, and the professionals who serve them. CPAC isn't a legal service and doesn't give legal advice. See the official site for current rules.
Child Development Watch (Birth to Three), Kent and Sussex Counties
Delaware Division of Public Health (DHSS)
Child Development Watch is the regional program of Delaware's Birth to Three early intervention system. Public health nurses serve infants and toddlers from birth to age three with developmental delays or disabilities, and their families. Call the Maternal Child Referrals Intake line to refer a child.
Child Development Watch (Birth to Three), New Castle County
Delaware Division of Public Health (DHSS)
Child Development Watch is the regional program of Delaware's Birth to Three early intervention system. Public health nurses serve infants and toddlers from birth to age three with developmental delays or disabilities, and their families. Call the Maternal Child Referrals Intake line to refer a child.
Where
New Castle County, Delaware
Cost
Cost varies
Who it's for
For children from birth to age three with developmental delays or disabilities, and their families. See the official site for current rules.
Delaware Department of Education, Office of Early Learning
These programs focus on academics, social skills, health, and nutrition to prepare children for school. Head Start and Early Head Start serve eligible children from birth to kindergarten (and pregnant women in Early Head Start). The state-funded Early Childhood Assistance Program (ECAP) serves preschool-age children and follows Head Start Program Performance Standards. Families should contact the partner program closest to home; the page links a list of state-funded partners.
Where
Delaware
Cost
Free
Who it's for
Head Start and Early Head Start serve children from low-income families, children with disabilities, and children who are homeless. ECAP serves children from income-eligible families and children with documented delays or disabilities regardless of income. Foster children, homeless children, and families on TANF also qualify. ECAP pre-enrollment is each spring and again in August for the September-May school year. See the official site for current rules.
The Parent Information Center of Delaware is the state's federally designated Parent Training and Information Center. It helps parents and caregivers of children and youth with disabilities from birth to 26 with training, information, help with IEPs and IFSPs, procedural safeguards and rights, and dispute resolution options.
Early Steps (early intervention, birth to 36 months)
Florida Department of Health, Early Steps Program
Early Steps provides early intervention services at no cost to families for infants and toddlers from birth to 36 months with developmental delays, disabilities, or at-risk conditions. Services happen where the child lives, learns, and plays, and families work with a service coordinator. Call or email to be connected with a local Early Steps office.
For children from birth to 36 months with developmental delays, disabilities, or at-risk conditions. Email: floridaearlysteps@flhealth.gov. See the official site for current rules.
Family Network on Disabilities has been Florida's Parent Training and Information Center (PTI) for over 35 years. It helps families of children with disabilities with resources, training, and support, offered free of charge, plus workshops for parents, self-advocates, youth, and professionals. It also runs an online support group for parents and caregivers. The office is at 311 South Missouri Ave, Clearwater.
Florida Head Start State Collaboration Office (Division of Early Learning)
Head Start (ages 3-5) and Early Head Start (under 3 and pregnant women) give enrolled families intensive child development and family support: early learning, health and nutrition, family engagement, and social services. More than 40,000 Florida families are served, including Migrant and Seasonal Head Start. Programs run through school districts, private and home-based providers, faith-based agencies, family child care homes, and others.
Eligible families include those experiencing homelessness, receiving SNAP, TANF, or SSI, or with incomes under the federal poverty guidelines. Children in foster care are also eligible. See the official site for current rules.
Babies Can't Wait is Georgia's Part C early intervention program for infants and toddlers with special needs, from birth to their third birthday. It offers early identification and screening and coordinated services built into a family plan (IFSP). Services happen during daily routines in natural settings like home or daycare. Make a referral with the Child Health Referral Form, sent to the local Child Health Referral Contact in your county, or by phone, email, fax, letter, or in person.
Where
Georgia
Cost
Cost varies
Who it's for
Georgia children from birth to their third birthday, regardless of income, who have a diagnosed condition known to cause developmental delay (such as blindness, Down syndrome, autism, or spina bifida) or a developmental delay confirmed by a qualified team. Parental consent isn't required to refer, but referrers are encouraged to talk with parents first. See the official site for current rules.
Georgia Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Disabilities (DBHDD)
GCAL is Georgia's 24/7/365 line for mental health, substance use, and intellectual and developmental disability crises. Staff give phone intervention, dispatch mobile crisis teams, find open crisis or detox beds statewide, and link people to urgent appointments. For non-emergencies, GCAL helps you reach a state-funded provider near you and can schedule appointments; you can also search providers by ZIP code at mygcal.com. GCAL is operated by Carelon for DBHDD and is Georgia's home for the 988 Lifeline.
Open to anyone in Georgia. People in immediate danger are warm-transferred to local 911, and staff stay on the line until responders arrive (DBHDD Access Services page, https://dbhdd.georgia.gov/access-services). See the official site for current rules.
Georgia Head Start State Collaboration Office, Bright from the Start: Georgia Department of Early Care and Learning (DECAL)
Head Start and Early Head Start are federally funded programs that prepare children under 5 for school. Georgia has 32 agencies offering center-based care, home visiting, child care partnership sites, and family child care homes. Services include early learning, health, nutrition, dental, and mental health services, family engagement and goal planning, and inclusive early intervention for children with disabilities. Find a local program with the Head Start Locator and apply directly; each provider has its own process and deadline.
Where
Georgia
Cost
Free
Who it's for
Free for families with income at or below the federal poverty guidelines. Children also qualify regardless of income if the family gets TANF, SSI, or SNAP, or the child is in foster care or experiencing homelessness. Families with high housing costs may still qualify; see the official page. One application per child; waiting lists are used when full (Georgia.gov, https://georgia.gov/enroll-child-head-start). See the official site for current rules.
Parent to Parent of Georgia (Parent Training and Information Center)
Parent to Parent of Georgia, Inc.
Parent to Parent of Georgia is a statewide nonprofit supporting families and individuals from birth through age 26 who are affected by disabilities or special health care needs. It is Georgia's Parent Training and Information Center (PTI), Health Information Center (Family-to-Family), Babies Can't Wait Central Directory, and Parent to Parent USA affiliate. It offers a searchable provider database, the Roadmap to Success guide, and a training and events calendar.
Georgia families and individuals, birth through age 26, affected by disabilities or special health care needs. See the official site for current rules.
Hawaiสปi Department of Health, Child & Adolescent Mental Health Division
CAMHD serves Hawaiสปi youth with 'high need' for mental health treatment (severe emotional disturbance). Services include assessment, case management, and therapeutic supports in the home and community, or temporary out-of-home placements. Apply online or mail the application to the Family Guidance Center serving the area where the youth's parent, caregiver, or guardian lives.
Youth must be physically present in Hawaiสปi when applying and have a qualifying DSM-5 mental health diagnosis from a Qualified Mental Health Professional within the past 12 months. They must also have moderate to severe impairment in daily functioning (scored on the CAFAS). They need at least one funding source: a Med-QUEST Integration Health Plan, an IEP referral for intensive mental health services, an Office of Youth Services referral, or acceptance into a grant-funded CAMHD program. See the official site for current rules.
Early Intervention Services (Early Intervention Section)
Hawaiสปi Department of Health, Early Intervention Section
Early Intervention supports infants and toddlers in five areas: physical, cognitive, communication, social or emotional, and adaptive skills. Every eligible child gets a care coordinator who helps the family get an evaluation, build an Individualized Family Support Plan, link to services, and move on at age 3 to Department of Education Special Education Preschool, Head Start, or other preschools. Services are on all islands through public and private programs. Call the information and referral line if you're concerned about a child's development; referrals can also be made by fax.
A child is eligible if they have a developmental delay or are at risk of developing one. There are no income restrictions. See the official site for current rules.
Leadership in Disabilities & Achievement of Hawaiสปi (LDAH) - Parent Training and Information Center
Leadership in Disabilities & Achievement of Hawaiสปi (LDAH)
LDAH is the Hawaiสปi & Pacific Island Parent Training & Information Center. It supports children and youth with disabilities through parent training and resources on special education, special education advocacy (IEPs, IDEA, Chapter 60), early identification and case management, early intervention, help for military families with moves and IEP transitions, and bullying prevention resources. It also has a free app. Offices are at the Harry & Jeanette Weinberg Kukui Center (245 North Kukui Street, Suite 205, Honolulu) and in Waiสปanae.
Idaho Parents Unlimited (Parent Training and Information Center)
Idaho Parents Unlimited, Inc. (IPUL)
Founded in 1985, Idaho Parents Unlimited is a statewide organization that houses the Idaho Parent Training and Information Center, the Family to Family Health Information Center, Idaho Family Voices, and IPUL Arts. It offers education and resources on IEPs, 504 plans, school rights, dispute resolution, literacy, the Infant Toddler Program (birth to three), behavioral health (YES), health financing, and planning for adulthood, plus parent leadership training. IPUL doesn't attend IEP or 504 meetings but helps families prepare and understand their options. For a first request, use the web intake form or call the intake line and leave a message.
Idaho Department of Health and Welfare (DHW), Infant Toddler Program
Idaho's Infant Toddler Program coordinates early intervention services for children from birth to age 3 who have a developmental delay or a condition (such as prematurity, Down syndrome, or hearing loss) that may lead to one. Referred children are assessed for eligibility. If eligible, an Individualized Family Service Plan (IFSP) is written and reviewed every six months. A lead service provider coaches the family to support the child's learning during daily routines. Make a referral online, by phone, or by email (itpreferral@dhw.idaho.gov). DHW also offers a free developmental screening questionnaire.
Children newborn to 3 with a significant delay in cognitive, adaptive, communication, physical, or social-emotional development, or with a physical or medical condition likely to result in a delay. See the official site for current rules.
Early Intervention (EI) and Child and Family Connections offices
Illinois Department of Early Childhood (IDEC)
Early Intervention serves families with children up to age 3 who have a disability or developmental delay or are at substantial risk of one. Anyone can refer a child for a free screening: contact one of the 25 regional Child and Family Connections (CFC) offices to schedule a free evaluation, or ask your child's doctor for a referral. If services are needed, a team writes an Individualized Family Service Plan (IFSP). Each CFC serves specific counties and ZIP codes; IDEC posts a list of which office serves each county, and Cook County is split by ZIP code.
Children under 3 with a 30% delay in at least one area (cognitive, physical, communication, social/emotional or adaptive), a condition known to cause delay, substantial risk of delay, or a substantiated case of abuse or neglect. See the official site for current rules.
Family Matters Parent Training and Information Center
Family Matters Parent Training and Information Center (FMPTIC)
Family Matters is the only federally funded Parent Training and Information Center for Illinois. It helps families of students with disabilities understand their rights under IDEA and take part in the special education process, with one-on-one support, workshops and webinars, IEP reviews and guidance, and resources. As of October 1, 2025, it serves the entire state of Illinois.
Family Support Program (FSP) for youth with severe emotional disturbance
Illinois Department of Healthcare and Family Services (HFS)
The Family Support Program gives youth with a severe emotional disturbance access to intensive mental health services, so they can stay with their families and use community services rather than out-of-home care. Enrolled youth can receive all community-based behavioral health services, plus individual support, therapeutic support and residential treatment services. Families can apply with help from their Care Coordination and Support Organization (CCSO), online through eQSuite, by fax to (800) 418-4039, or by mail to Acentra Health. Applications are available in English and Spanish.
Where
Illinois
Cost
Cost varies
Who it's for
Youth under 18 when the application is submitted, living in Illinois, not in government custody or guardianship, with a severe emotional disturbance whose needs aren't being met by traditional outpatient services. See the official site for current rules.
Indiana FSSA, Bureau of Child Development Services (BCDS)
First Steps is Indiana's early intervention program for children from birth to age 3 who would benefit from extra support to meet developmental milestones. It helps families support their child's learning through everyday activities. Anyone, including a parent or doctor, can refer a child. Local offices are organized by county clusters.
IN*SOURCE has given information and resources to parents of children with disabilities since the 1970s, helping families understand how Indiana's special education law, Article 7, applies to their child. Reach them by phone, email or contact form, or use their videos, webinars and other materials.
Indiana Family to Family gives answers, resources, practical training and community connections to Hoosier families of children with unique health, mental health and education needs, and to the professionals who serve them. It hosts Heart to Heart, a free annual statewide event.
ASK Resource Center: Iowa's Parent Training and Information Center
ASK Resource Center
ASK Resource Center has been Iowa's only Parent Training and Information Center (PTI) since 1998 and operates statewide. Family Support Specialists help with health care and education questions related to disability, and trained volunteer mentors who have cared for someone with a disability offer support. Request help through the contact form (also in Spanish) or by phone.
Iowa Department of Education (with Iowa's Area Education Agencies)
Early ACCESS is Iowa's early intervention system for infants and toddlers from birth to age 3 who have a health or physical condition that may affect development, or delays in playing, thinking, talking or moving. Providers coach parents and caregivers to help children learn during everyday routines. Area Education Agencies run it so services are available wherever a family lives in Iowa. Anyone can make a referral by phone, email or online.
Children under 3 with a condition that may affect development or with developmental delays. Participation is voluntary. See the official site for current rules.
Families Together (Kansas Parent Training and Information Center)
Families Together, Inc.
Families Together is Kansas's federally designated Parent Training and Information Center and Family-to-Family Health Information Center. It helps families of children and youth with disabilities or special health care needs understand special education and their rights, work with schools on IEPs, navigate early intervention and health care, and plan for life after high school. Its Parent-to-Parent program matches you with a trained support parent who has faced similar challenges. Workshops and one-on-one help are offered statewide, with a Spanish-language line.
For Kansas families of children and youth (birth to 26) with disabilities, special health care needs, or learning, behavioral, physical, emotional or health challenges. See the official site for current rules.
Infant Toddler Services of Kansas (tiny-k early intervention)
Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE), Kansas Early Childhood Developmental Services; local tiny-k programs
Infant Toddler Services of Kansas, often called tiny-k, is the state's early intervention program for babies and toddlers from birth to age 3 with developmental delays or disabilities. Every Kansas infant and toddler can get a free developmental evaluation, and children who qualify receive no-cost early intervention services, often in the home. Enter your county or ZIP code on the website to find the local program, then contact it to ask for an evaluation.
Where
Kansas
Cost
Free
Who it's for
For Kansas children from birth to age 3 with, or who may have, a developmental delay or disability. See the official site for current rules.
Kentucky community mental health centers (Regional MHID Boards)
Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services, Department for Behavioral Health, Developmental and Intellectual Disabilities (DBHDID)
Kentucky's 14 regional Boards for Mental Health or Individuals With an Intellectual Disability, also called community mental health centers (CMHCs), provide publicly funded services for Kentuckians with mental health, developmental and intellectual disability, or substance use needs. Each is a private nonprofit serving a set multi-county region. Use the county drop-down on the CHFS page to get contact information for your county's office.
Where
Kentucky
Cost
Cost varies
Who it's for
Kentucky residents with mental health, developmental or intellectual disability, or substance use needs. See the official site for current rules.
Kentucky Early Intervention System (KEIS) for children birth to 3
Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services, Department for Public Health (KEIS)
The Kentucky Early Intervention System is the statewide program for infants and toddlers from birth to age 3 with developmental delays or conditions likely to cause a delay. It is available in every Kentucky county and taking part is voluntary. Anyone can make a referral to the regional point of entry office, which arranges evaluations, decides eligibility and works with the family on an Individualized Family Service Plan. A parent's written consent is needed for every step. Most families pay nothing; some families with the highest incomes share in the cost on a sliding scale.
Children from birth to age 3 with a developmental delay, an established risk condition, or a need found by a team's informed clinical opinion. See the official site for current rules.
KY-SPIN Parent Training and Information (PTI) Center
KY-SPIN, Inc. (Kentucky Special Parent Involvement Network)
KY-SPIN Parent Center is Kentucky's statewide Parent Training and Information Center, funded by the U.S. Department of Education. It gives training, information and support to parents and families of children and youth with any type of disability from birth through age 26, and to professionals. Staff help families one-on-one through the steps of getting services for their child, offer community workshops on education laws and rights, and provide resource materials and referrals. KY-SPIN is not a legal services agency.
Families of children and youth with disabilities, birth through 26, and the professionals who work with them, anywhere in Kentucky. See the official site for current rules.
Capital Area Human Services (CAHS): mental health, addiction and developmental disability services
Capital Area Human Services District (CAHS)
Capital Area Human Services runs the publicly funded community programs for mental health, addictive disorders, developmental disabilities and co-occurring disorders in seven parishes around Baton Rouge. Treatment teams can include a psychiatrist, psychologist, social worker, counselor and nurse, and there are more than 10 locations, in rural as well as urban areas. Fees are based on ability to pay using a sliding fee schedule, and Medicaid, Medicare and many private insurance plans are accepted. A 24-hour crisis line is available.
Where
Ascension Parish, East Baton Rouge Parish, East Feliciana Parish, Iberville Parish, Pointe Coupee Parish, West Baton Rouge Parish and West Feliciana Parish, Louisiana
EarlySteps early intervention for infants and toddlers (Louisiana)
Louisiana Department of Health (LDH), Office of Intellectual & Developmental Disability Supports (OIDD), EarlySteps
EarlySteps serves families with infants and toddlers from birth to age 3 who have a medical condition likely to cause a developmental delay, or who have developmental delays in areas such as thinking, movement, vision, hearing, communication, social-emotional or self-help skills. Services aim to help families support their child's development and take place in natural settings such as the home or child care. Anyone can make a referral by contacting the System Point of Entry (SPOE) for the family's region; the SPOE then contacts the family to start the eligibility process.
Where
Louisiana
Cost
Cost varies
Who it's for
Children from birth to 3 (35 months) in Louisiana with a qualifying condition or developmental delay. See the official site for current rules.
Families Helping Families Community Resource Specialists (Louisiana)
Louisiana Department of Health (LDH), Families Helping Families
Families Helping Families Community Resource Specialists help families of children with special health care needs find resources. They can help you get services, navigate referrals to support services and connect with other parents. Contact the Families Helping Families organization for your region and ask for a Community Resource Specialist; LDH lists a phone number for each region.
Where
Louisiana
Cost
Cost varies
Who it's for
Families of children with special health care needs in Louisiana. See the official site for current rules.
Human services districts and authorities: local mental health, addiction and developmental disability services (LDH)
Louisiana Department of Health (LDH), Local Governing Entities
Louisiana's public behavioral health and developmental disability services are run by ten regional human services districts and authorities, listed on LDH's Local Governing Entities page: Metropolitan Human Services District (Region 1), Capital Area (Region 2), South Central Louisiana (Region 3), Acadiana Area (Region 4), Imperial Calcasieu (Region 5), Central Louisiana (Region 6), Northwest Louisiana (Region 7), Northeast Delta (Region 8), Florida Parishes (Region 9) and Jefferson Parish (Region 10). Each one provides mental health, addiction and developmental disability services for the parishes in its region. Use the page to find the district for your parish.
Where
Louisiana
Cost
Cost varies
Who it's for
Residents of each district's parishes. Each district sets its own eligibility and fees. See the official site for current rules.
JPHSA serves people and families in Jefferson Parish affected by mental illness, addictive disorders or developmental disabilities. Its JeffCare clinics offer family medicine and behavioral health, including pediatrics and mental health care for children and teens, with a sliding fee discount scale and some telehealth visits. Behavioral Health Community Services brings treatment and support where people live and work, including substance use prevention and treatment, and Developmental Disabilities Community Services supports people with special needs and their families.
People and families in Jefferson Parish affected by mental illness, addiction or developmental disabilities. JeffCare primary care is open to children, teens and adults. See the official site for current rules.
Louisiana Parent Training and Information Center (LaPTIC) at Families Helping Families of Greater New Orleans
Families Helping Families of Greater New Orleans
Families Helping Families of Greater New Orleans is the Louisiana Parent Training and Information Center (LaPTIC), funded by the U.S. Department of Education's Office of Special Education Programs. It helps families of children with any disability, at any age, understand their rights under IDEA, Section 504 and the ADA, learn about their child's disability, work through the special education process, and advocate for their child. It also teaches youth and young adults self-advocacy and offers workshops, for example on moving from EarlySteps to school services and on what to do when you and the school disagree. Help is always free of charge.
Metropolitan Human Services District (MHSD): mental health, addiction and developmental disability services
Metropolitan Human Services District (MHSD)
MHSD serves people of all ages in Orleans, Plaquemines and St. Bernard Parishes who have mental illness (such as depression, anxiety or PTSD), addiction (such as alcohol, opioids, cocaine or gambling), or an intellectual or physical impairment that began before age 22 (such as Down syndrome, autism or epilepsy). It offers same-day walk-in for services, appointments, homeless outreach and Mental Health First Aid training, and runs a 24-hour crisis line.
Where
Orleans Parish, Plaquemines Parish and St. Bernard Parish, Louisiana
Residents of Orleans, Plaquemines and St. Bernard Parishes who are uninsured or Medicaid-eligible and have one of the conditions served. A 'Do You Qualify?' page has details. See the official site for current rules.
Supportive housing and voucher programs (Louisiana Housing Corporation)
Louisiana Housing Corporation (LHC)
LHC directs renters to programs including the Permanent Supportive Housing Program for people with very low incomes and chronic, disabling health conditions; project-based vouchers attached to specific housing units; VASH vouchers for homeless veterans and their families, run with the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs; and Mainstream vouchers for non-elderly people with disabilities and their families. LAHousingSearch.org is a free resource for finding rental housing across the state.
Child Development Services (CDS): early intervention and preschool special education (Maine)
Maine Department of Education (DOE), Child Development Services (CDS)
Child Development Services is a state agency under the Maine Department of Education. It provides Early Intervention for children from birth through age two (IDEA Part C) and a Free Appropriate Public Education for children ages three to five with disabilities. CDS runs Child Find, screenings and evaluations through regional sites; families can find the site serving their town from the CDS families page. Maine school districts are taking on preschool special education, with all districts expected to offer it by July 1, 2028.
Where
Maine
Cost
Cost varies
Who it's for
Children from birth to age 5 with, or suspected of having, a developmental delay or disability. See the official site for current rules.
Maine Parent Federation: Parent Training and Information Center (PTI)
Maine Parent Federation (MPF)
Maine Parent Federation is Maine's federally funded Parent Training and Information Center. Staff, many of them parents of children with disabilities, answer questions about services, educational rights and specific disabilities through a toll-free statewide line, and help with more complex problems. MPF offers workshops and trainings on special education law, a lending library, a resource map and a quarterly newsletter.
All Maine families of children and youth with disabilities from birth through age 26, with special emphasis on underserved and isolated families. See the official site for current rules.
MaineCare for children and young adults under 21, including Katie Beckett
Maine Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS), Office of MaineCare Services
MaineCare provides free health insurance and other health benefits to children and young adults under 21 who meet income guidelines or disability criteria. Children under 19 with serious health conditions whose family income is too high for free MaineCare may get coverage through the Katie Beckett program for a low-cost premium. If a child under 19 loses MaineCare because family income goes up, the family can buy MaineCare coverage for up to 18 months. After your baby is born, call the Office for Family Independence as soon as possible to add your baby to MaineCare. Children on MaineCare are part of VitalCare for Kids, Maine's EPSDT screening and treatment program.
Children and young adults under 21 who meet income guidelines or disability criteria; Katie Beckett and the full-cost purchase option are for children under 19. See the official site for current rules.
Maryland Coalition of Families: family peer support for behavioral health
Maryland Coalition of Families (MCF)
The Maryland Coalition of Families gives family peer support at no cost to families who have a loved one with mental health, substance use or problem gambling challenges. Family Peer Support Specialists, who have cared for their own loved ones, offer emotional support, help finding services, and help navigating school, legal, health care and child welfare systems. Parents and caregivers of children with mental health challenges can get help regardless of income or insurance. Request services online, by email or by phone.
Maryland families and caregivers of a child, youth or adult with mental health, substance use or problem gambling challenges. See the official site for current rules.
Maryland Infants and Toddlers Program (early intervention, birth to 3)
Maryland State Department of Education (MSDE), Maryland Infants and Toddlers Program (MITP)
The Maryland Infants and Toddlers Program provides free, family-centered early intervention for children from birth to age 3 with developmental delays or disabilities. Anyone who knows the child, such as a parent, doctor or child care provider, can make a referral online or by phone. The local program then contacts the family and schedules an evaluation, and services happen at home, in the community or virtually. Local Infants and Toddlers Programs serve every Maryland jurisdiction.
Children from birth through age two with a developmental delay, atypical development, or a diagnosed condition likely to cause a delay. See the official site for current rules.
Parents' Place of Maryland: Parent Training and Information Center (PTI)
The Parents' Place of Maryland (PPMD)
Parents' Place of Maryland is Maryland's Parent Training and Information Center and Family-to-Family Health Information Center. Staff who have a child or loved one with a disability give families peer support on special education, health care and behavioral health systems, and offer trainings for parents and professionals, plus guides and resources in English and Spanish.
Maryland families of children and loved ones with disabilities, special health care needs or behavioral health needs. See the official site for current rules.
Federation for Children with Special Needs (Massachusetts Parent Training and Information Center)
Federation for Children with Special Needs (FCSN)
The Federation for Children with Special Needs helps parents of children with disabilities. Its Information Center is a free service for parents, youth and professionals with questions about special education, such as eligibility, evaluations, IEPs, progress, parents' rights and resolving differences with the school, staffed on weekday hours. Parent Training and Information Center workshops, including a basic rights series, are open to the public and free. Most staff are parents or family members of children with disabilities. Help is offered in several languages.
Massachusetts Early Intervention (EI), birth to three
Massachusetts Department of Public Health, Early Intervention Division
Early Intervention serves infants and toddlers from birth to three who have developmental delays or are at risk of a delay. EI specialists visit families in everyday settings to help parents support their child's development and learning through daily activities, guided by an individualized family plan. There are no out-of-pocket costs for families. Anyone can refer a child by contacting the EI program that serves their city or town; search the state's program list by town.
Where
Massachusetts
Cost
Free
Who it's for
Massachusetts children under three who are not reaching milestones, have certain diagnosed conditions, or have medical or social histories that put them at risk for a delay.
PPAL is the Massachusetts family voice for children's mental health. Its trained staff, mostly family members with lived experience raising youth with emotional, behavioral and mental health challenges, support families, build advocacy skills and help them connect with resources and services. PPAL also offers workshops, support groups, family networking events and publications in English, Spanish and Portuguese. All services for families are free.
