Understanding opens doors.
When people understand autism, neurodivergence, and the purpose of compassionate, evidence-based support, they are better prepared to welcome, include, and empower the people around them.
At Footprints, education is one way we walk alongside families—and help build communities where children and adults can participate, grow, and contribute in meaningful ways.
Understand ABA, assessment, medical necessity, authorization, and what referring professionals can expect.
Explore clinical information →Community Education & TrainingExplore presentations and practical training for schools, first responders, employers, agencies, and community organizations.
Explore education and training →Awareness is only the beginning.
See the whole person.
Autism is a lifelong neurodevelopmental difference. Each autistic person has a unique mix of strengths, preferences, communication styles, sensory experiences, and support needs.
Respectful support begins with listening, individualized accommodations, and the belief that growth does not require someone to give up who they are.
Support for meaningful change.
ABA is a science of learning and behavior. When thoughtfully practiced, it helps identify what is supporting or getting in the way of meaningful goals and builds skills that matter in daily life.
At Footprints, goals are individualized and collaborative. The purpose is not sameness or compliance—it is communication, safety, participation, independence, and a fuller life.
We understand that we cannot do this alone.
It takes a community of compassion and understanding—people willing to open their hands, open their hearts, and say, “I can help.”
Together, we can create cultures that welcome neurodivergence, make thoughtful accommodations, and help each person move toward a more independent, fulfilling life.
How assessment and authorization generally work
Coverage and authorization rules vary by health plan, state, and benefit. The process commonly includes these steps:
A family, physician, or other professional identifies a concern or need for support.
Coverage, clinical documentation, and benefit requirements are reviewed.
A qualified professional evaluates strengths, needs, priorities, and context.
Recommendations describe goals, service types, clinical rationale, and proposed intensity.
The health plan applies its medical-necessity and benefit criteria.
Approved services are scheduled based on family and provider availability.
An authorization is a payer decision about covered services. It is not a guarantee that every approved hour will be immediately available or delivered.
Certification, clinical guidance, and coverage are different.
The Behavior Analyst Certification Board sets certification, ethics, and professional requirements for BACB certificants.
BACB consumer resources →The Council of Autism Service Providers publishes clinical practice guidance for autism service organizations.
CASP practice guidelines →Payers and states establish benefit, documentation, medical-necessity, and authorization requirements.
Medicaid autism services →Help us create communities ready to understand and respond.
We offer presentations, workshops, and practical training for professionals and community groups who want to become more confident, compassionate, and prepared.
- Medical and behavioral-health professionals
- Educators and school communities
- First responders and public-safety teams
- Public agencies and family-support systems
- Employers and workplace leaders
- Museums and community organizations
- Career counselors and workforce programs
- High school and college students
- Autism and neurodiversity foundations
- Communication and sensory differences
- Compassionate de-escalation and response
- Supporting participation in public spaces
- Practical accommodations and inclusion
- Parent and caregiver education
- Neuroinclusive employment
- Careers in ABA and behavioral health
Where we have shared
Past audiences have included the Orange County IHSS Public Authority; Regional Center of Orange County; Disneyland staff; TSA personnel at John Wayne Airport; Oregon juvenile detention officers; Pretend City Children’s Museum volunteers; Colorado Department of Education audiences; and private-school communities.
Selected programs have been delivered in English, Spanish, and Vietnamese. Current topics, facilitators, language availability, and fees vary. Organization names describe past audiences and do not imply endorsement or an ongoing partnership.
First responder autism training
A patient, informed response can change the direction of a difficult moment. Training can help teams recognize communication and sensory needs, reduce escalation, use practical supports, and respond with dignity.
Careers that create change
We also speak with career counselors, students, educators, and workforce organizations about the need for compassionate behavioral-health professionals and rewarding career paths as behavior technicians, behavior analysts, and operational leaders.
What could greater understanding make possible in your community?
Tell us about your audience, goals, preferred timing, location, and accessibility or language needs. We will explore a format that serves your group well.
Educational notice: This page provides general information and is not medical, legal, insurance, or emergency advice. Coverage and authorization requirements vary by payer, plan, state, and individual circumstances. For an urgent safety concern, contact local emergency services.