Department of Developmental Services and Autism: What services can be provided and when should referral be made?

Although the Department of Developmental Services (DDS) has always served people with autism and intellectual disabilities, beginning in 2014, with the passage of the Autism Omnibus Bill, our eligibility standards changed and DDS became the lead agency for autistic individuals in the Commonwealth without an accompanying ID diagnosis as well

DDS currently serves almost 5,000 adults with ASD without cognitive challenges, and the number of these eligible adults is growing rapidly

Every student identified with ASD - primary, secondary, or tertiary – should be referred to DDS through the 688 process with the student’s/parent’s consent 2 years before their anticipated graduation date. This is true regardless of IQ or academic performance – autistic students with average or even above-average academic skills may require significant support in other domains to make a successful transition into adult life

Students & families should be encouraged to apply for DDS adult eligibility when students turn 17. A DDS eligibility determination will be made based on the IEP and evaluations submitted during the application process.

• Connection to an adult service agency and a Transition or ASD Service Coordinator can make the transition process smoother and less chaotic for schools, families, and DDS

• Planning time for ISP teams to work together to identify a post-secondary vision and look at available community supports

• Funding for adult services is triggered by the 688 process – students who seek out services without a 688 are still eligible, but it will be much more difficult for DDS to serve them adequately.

DDS wants to partner well with public schools in this transition process. They recognize that schools have a lot on their plates currently and that staffing shortages and turnover complicate the 688 process and transition in general. DDS Area & Regional staff are available for training and consultation for ETL’s and other school leaders on 688, adult service options, and available service providers in your area.

Some examples of Available ASD Only Services

• Employment Supports

• Coaching & College Navigation

• Flexible Funding

• Community Access & Social Recreation

• Clinical Supports

• Service Coordination

• Self-advocacy and Peer Support Groups

Do not let a school team tell you they typically wait until your child’s senior year to make the referral. Start early and follow up yourself to ensure it’s been done.

For help with transition planning starting when your child turns 14 reach out to Ask the Advocate for a consultation.

• Also, Visit Our other page:

  Ask The Advocate, Maureen Brown

  Special Education Advocate Massachusetts