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AUTISM WAIVER SERVICES

Early Intervention for Young Children with Autism in Arkansas

For families of young children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), early support can make a meaningful difference. The Arkansas Autism Waiver is a Medicaid-funded program designed to provide intensive, individualized intervention in natural settings such as the home and community. Eligible children receive services focused on communication, social interaction, behavior, and everyday living skills during the years when early intervention can have the greatest impact.

At Myers-Davis Life Coaching and Disability Services, we partner with families to help children build important skills, increase independence, and participate more fully in everyday life. Our approach centers on the unique strengths, needs, and goals of each child while supporting parents and caregivers every step of the journey.

What is the Autism Waiver?

The Arkansas Autism Waiver is a program administered through the Arkansas Department of Human Services that provides intensive one-on-one intervention services for young children diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder. Services are delivered in natural environments such as the child’s home, school, church, park, or other community settings, while actively involving parents and caregivers in treatment and skill development.

The goal of the program is to help children develop skills in areas such as:
  • Communication and language
  • Social interaction
  • Play and relationship-building
  • Daily living and self-help skills
  • Emotional regulation
  • Behavior support
  • Community participation

How Myers-Davis Supports Your Family

Families navigating an autism diagnosis often find themselves managing appointments, paperwork, evaluations, and decisions about services. Our team helps simplify the process while delivering compassionate, person-centered support.

Our Autism Waiver services include:
  • Individualized intervention based on your child’s needs
  • Family-centered planning and support
  • Parent and caregiver involvement throughout services
  • Skill-building in natural environments
  • Collaboration with other providers and support systems
  • Ongoing progress monitoring and goal development

Who is Eligible?

According to the Arkansas Department of Human Services, children must:
  • Have a qualifying Autism Spectrum Disorder diagnosis
  • Be between 18 months and 5 years of age when enrolling
  • Begin services before their 5th birthday
  • Meet Medicaid and program eligibility requirements
Children may receive up to three years of Autism Waiver services, and openings are often limited due to the waitlist.

Not Sure Where to Start?

If you believe your child may qualify for Autism Waiver Services, the first step is obtaining an autism evaluation and diagnosis through qualified professionals. The Arkansas Department of Human Services recommends beginning with your child’s primary care physician, who can provide referrals for diagnostic evaluations when appropriate.

Myers-Davis can help answer questions about:

  • Autism Waiver eligibility
  • Application and referral processes
  • Available community resources
  • Service options for your child and family
  • Next steps following a diagnosis

Get Started Today

Whether you’re exploring Autism Waiver Services for the first time or looking for guidance through the enrollment process, we’re here to help. Applications for the program happen through the Arkansas Autism Partnership by University of Arkansas Partners for Inclusive Communities.
Apply Through Partners
Contact Us
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