The intersectionality between mental health and intellectual/developmental disabilities is a complex one. Although they are very intertwined, there remain many gaps in the understanding and treatment of mental health within the autism community. We must continue to provide support and resources while also advocating for needed improvements in the mental health space for autistic individuals, their families, and caregivers.
Resource Directory:
Anyone can access our extensive resource directory to find mental health providers and support groups. All businesses/organizations that add themselves to our directory are required to attest that they are neurodiversity affirming. Please note that Washington Autism Alliance does not directly endorse these organizations, and we encourage individuals to vet providers.
Example questions to ask a potential mental health provider:
- What is your experience with working with neurodiverse populations?
- What is your approach to working with clients with autism or other intellectual/developmental disabilities?
- How do you adjust therapeutic strategies or models for your neurodivergent clients?
- How do you accommodate sensory needs among your clients?
Remember that therapists are not one-size-fits-all, and it can take a few tries to find the right fit!
Online Workshops
We have many recorded workshops that both directly and indirectly address mental health among autistic individuals, including Autistic Burnout and Psychiatry for Autism and Co-occurring Mental Disorders. Sign up for your free membership today to access these videos!
In addition to our Online Academy videos, we also have a monthly support group dedicated to parents of high-masking autistic students. High-masking individuals often face burnout, and these group sessions cover a variety of topics that help parents/caregivers develop tools to support their student. Please note that these sessions are not recorded.
Crisis Resources
988 Lifeline– Individuals can call, text, or chat with a crisis counselor 24/7. These conversations are confidential, and the counselors will provide support and relevant resources.
Crisis Lines by County (Source: Health Care Authority)
Many counties share the same hotlines
Adams County: 1-877-266-1818
Asotin County: 1-888-544-9986
Benton County: 1-888-544-9986
Chelan County: 1-800-852-2923
Clallam County: 1-888-910-0416
Clark County: 1-800-626-8137
Columbia County: 1-888-544-9986
Cowlitz County: 1-800-803-8833
Douglas County: 1-800-852-2923
Ferry County: 1-877-266-1818
Franklin County: 1-888-544-9986
Garfield County: 1-888-544-9986
Grant County: 1-800-852-2923
Grays Harbor County: 1-800-803-8833
Island County: 1-800-584-3578
Jefferson County: 1-888-910-0416
King County: 1-866-427-4747
Kitsap County: 1-888-910-0416
Kittitas County: 1-888-544-9986
Klickitat County: 1-800-626-8137
Lewis County: 1-800-803-883
Lincoln County: 1-877-266-1818
Mason County: 1-800-270-0041
Okanogan County: 1-800-852-2923
Pacific County: 1-800-803-8833
Pend Oreille County: 1-877-266-1818
Pierce County: 1-800-576-7764
San Juan County: 1-800-584-3578
Skagit County: 1-800-584-3578
Skamania County:1-800-626-8137
Snohomish County: 1-800-584-3578
Spokane County: 1-877-266-1818
Stevens County: 1-877-266-1818
Thurston County: 1-800-270-0041
Wahkiakum County: 1-800-803-8833
Walla Walla County: 1-888-544-9986
Whatcom County: 1-800-584-3578
Whitman County: 1-888-544-9986
Yakima County: 1-888-544-9986
The systems that autistic individuals and their families have to navigate can be stressful and overwhelming. If you or a loved one needs additional support, our Family Navigation team is here to help with special education coaching, resource navigation, parent coaching, crisis stabilization, and insurance appeals for autism related healthcare.