Local Resources
Resources for the Greater Houston Area
Education
Education Advocates/Private Sector, Fee Based (Not Attorneys)
Cynthia Singleton- Advocate Well
Educational Consultant Special Ed Advocacy at ARD Meetings, Parent Mentoring, Free 30-minute consultation, online training about special Ed advocacy.
Reaching Greater Heights – Central/Northwestl
Private Educational Advocate. Provides Special Education 504 consultation, IEP and 504 document review, ARD/IEP and 504 assistance. (Bilingual)
Karen Mayer-Cunningham-Private Advocate
Private Educational advocate that works with parents of children with disabilities or learning difference. Focuses on student success by assisting parents in navigating and understanding the education system and finding appropriate services and resources.
Special Education Advocate – Jimmy Kilpatrick
Is a group of local (based in Houston, Texas) that provides advocacy, research and organizational support to families, their children, & community.
National ARD/IEP Advocates-Private Advocate
Private Educational Advocate. Special education guidance consultation, IEP review, ARD meeting assistance.
Other Education Resources
Region IV Education Service Center (TEA)
Supports public school teachers and staff. Trainings for professionals and parents offered. Their special education library is open for use by all education professionals.
True Knights Academyl
Academic Enrichment Along with Brain & Sensory Training For Students with Disabilities and their Siblings for ages 5-22.
Discover Technology
Computer information and linked laboratories for persons with mental, physical, or other disabilities.
Harris County Department of Education
Information about public education services in Harris County.
Educational Assessment and Testing (for Public School Special Education Diagnostic Requirements)
Family Literacy Network
For assessment of reading/literacy skills.
Neuhaus Education Center – Private
Consultation about resources for testing and tutoring of Dyslexic Children and adults. Training Educators.
North Houston Neuropsychology – North
Psychological, neuropsychological, psycho-educational and ADHD testing.
Psychology Services at Texas Children’s Hospital
Testing and teaching of children who have learning problems in school, includes significant parent involvement. Group therapy services for preschool and school age children.
Specialized Assessment and Consulting – Northwest/Cypress
Psychological and psycho-educational testing. Company also provides contract staff for school districts.
Houston Educational Consultants
Educational and Psychological testing; Developmental evaluations. Parent/child counseling and recommendation of school placement options.
MedCare Pediatric Group
Assessment for children with Autism, PDD, ADHD, ADD, cerebral Palsy, infant drug exposure, and other childhood disorders.
DePelchin Children’s Center – Multiple Locations
Therapy, Psychiatry, Psychological testing, Autism services, parenting classes.
University of Texas Developmental Neuropsychology Clinic – Central
Developmental and neuropsychological evaluations of children for language, learning, emotional and behavioral disorders as well as autism, ADHD and intellectual disability diagnosis.
https://med.uth.edu/psychiatry/patient-care/dnc/
713-486-2591
University of Houston Assessment Services – Central
Psychological and psycho-educational testing, personality assessment. Must leave a message and they will return the call. Sliding scale fee, no insurance accepted, ages 5 and up, no adults served.
Health Partners Group – Kingwood
Psychological, neuropsychological and psycho-educational testing services.
Bay Area Tutoring and Family Counseling
Comprehensive diagnostic testing for children with Dyslexia, Learning disabilities, ADHD, assessments, Learning and Language Disorders.
Center for Educational Programs – UH Clear Lake
Educational Diagnostic testing is offered for ages 6-adult. Also offers one-on-one tutoring for Reading, Writing, Spelling, and Study skills.
Meyer Center for Developmental – Central
Medically directed diagnostic services for infants, children and adolescents spanning the full spectrum of developmental-behavioral pediatrics – from intellectual disabilities and autism spectrum disorders to learning disabilities and attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).
http:/www.texaschildrens.org/Locate/Departments-and-Services/Developmental-Pediatrics/Meyer-Center-for-Developmental-Pediatrics/
832-822-3400
Educational Advocacy and Law Services
The Arc of Harris County
The Arc Parent Advocates provide guidance through the public-school education system, access to governmental support, and referrals for students with disabilities navigating the special education system in Texas.
https://thearchouston.org/education-advocacy
The Arc of Gulf Coast
Provides advocacy services throughout the lifetime of an individual living with an Intellectual and/or developmental disability. Help navigate laws/rules/regs, attend IEP’ services planning/other meetings and assist families with following up.
Family to Family Network
Provides information and referral, education, training, and support for families of children with disabilities.
Partners Resource Network
Statewide network of parent training and information Centers providing individual assistance, workshops, resources, webinars and self-guided online courses.
The Arc of Fort Bend-Only Fort Bend
Special Education guidance consultation, IEP review, ARD meeting assistance. Must live in Fort Bend County and be a current member of The Arc of Fort Bend.
TEAM Project
Non-profit agency to assist parents of children with disabilities. Provides workshops, information and referral assistance in ARD preparation. Services are available in Spanish and English.
Disability Rights Texas: East Region (formerly Advocacy, Inc.) – Multiple Locations
Provides direct advocacy services including special education for individuals with disabilities. However, they only take cases that fall within their chosen focus areas for a given year. The web site has great, downloadable publications on a variety of special education concerns. Services available in Spanish.
Private School Options
Prairie View A&M, Office of Disability Services – Prairie View
Provides assistance with necessary accommodations for students with disabilities attending Prairie View A&M.
Houston Community College Disability Support Services – Spring Branch
Coordinates accommodations for students with disabilities at Houston Community College.
http://central.hccs.edu/about-us/ability-services/
713-718-6164
University of Houston Center for Students with Disabilities – Central
Provides numerous academic support services to students with any type of learning disability, health impairment, physical limitation or psychiatric disorder at the University of Houston.
Rice Disability Support Services – Rice University
Provides and facilitates support services and accommodations for all individuals with disabilities on the Rice University campus, including students, faculty, staff, and visitors.
VAST Program (Vocational Advancement & Social Skills Training) – Houston Community College
Educational opportunities for individuals who have learning, developmental, and/ or physical disabilities. Courses are offered in the following areas: Academic, Personal/Social Development, Enrichment and Computers.
San Jacinto College North Disability Support – San Jacinto College North (East Houston)
Vocational opportunities and support for students with disabilities.
http://www.sanjac.edu/student-services/educational-planning/educational-planning-and-advising/disability-assistance
281-998-6150
Education Attorneys for hire
Martin Cirkiel
Filis Law Firm-Leona Filis
Law Firm of Holly Terrill
Disability Information and Support Groups
Language / Speech Impairment
University Speech, Language Clinic Program: A United Way Agency (USLHC)
Children and adults suspected of having communication disorders (i.e., articulation, voice, fluency, apraxia, aphasia, cognitive-communication, and verbal and written language) are seen at The University Speech and Language Hearing Clinic: A United Way Agency (USLHC) in order to evaluate their speech and language behavior.
https://www.uh.edu/class/comd/slhc/speech-svcs/
713-743-0915
Houston Association for Communication Disorders
Organization for speech and hearing disorders, conferences and outreach.
The Parish School – West Houston
Day school for children with communication and learning difficulties, who have average to above average learning potential, Ages 18 months through fifth grade.
Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders
Houston Area Partnership for FASD
Volunteer Partnership of organizations supporting FASD services. Facilitates parent support group.
https://www.facebook.com/HAPFASD/timeline
amy.fasd@yahoo.com
March of Dimes – Central
Organization whose mission is to prevent birth defects, including preventable disabilities such as FASDs.
All Disabilities/All Special Needs Services & Parent Support Groups
Safe Diversity Communities
helps students with unique abilities on the high school level transition from high school to college. It also provides needed resources for parents and family members. Additionally, the ambassador sector of SDC provides college scholarships (funded by sponsorships) to graduating and college level students
Exceptional Parents of Little Angels – Pasadena
Parent run support group that meets monthly at the Verne Cox Center. Meets September through May.
Lighthouse Learning Resources – Online
Online Service store provides Educational Consulting, in-home training, and sensory products for home and community.
www.LHlearningresources.com
Robin@LHlighthoouseresource.com
713-560-7923
Family to Family Network – Greater Houston areas
Parent-led in formation, referral, education, and support groups for families with children who have disabilities. Guided transition programs for families of children leaving high school.
Families Can Program – Parent Education Project – Central
For families of children with chronic illness and or/ medical or physical disabilities. Family support partners provide services that will enhance the family’s quality of life and promote community inclusion.
The Arc of Greater Houston – Greater Houston areas
Social, leisure and respite programs for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. General disability needs referral and information services. Supports Familias Hispanas support group.
United Cerebral Palsy (Now Easter Seals Disability Services) – Central
Provides respite services and activities for children with all types of disabilities.
Early Childhood Intervention
Local area early childhood (ages 0-3) intervention services run by the Texas Health and Human services).
Jewish Family Services
Various cultural and social programs for special needs children, employment and day services for adults with disabilities.
Attention Deficit Association – Southern Region
ADDASR) and Lighthouse Resources (LLR) partner up to host a free monthly parent support meeting. Meetings are held 2nd Tuesday of every month at Foundry United Methodist Church.
Houston Commission on Disabilities
12 members appointed by the mayor of Houston. For those who want to participate in the future direction of disability services in Houston this meeting is highly recommended.
http://www.houstontx.gov/disabilities/commission.html
832-394-0814
March of Dimes – Central
Organization whose mission is to prevent birth defects, including preventable disabilities.
Friends and Families of Asians with Special Needs – Central/Southwest
A group for Asian families with special needs that provides seminars, information sharing, structured activities, and family events.
Easter Seals Disability Services – Central
Provides respite services and activities for children with all types of disabilities and employment assistance for adults with disabilities.
Epilepsy
March of Dimes – Central
Organization whose mission is to prevent birth defects, including preventable disabilities such as FASDs.
The Baylor Comprehensive Epilepsy Center
Comprehensive evaluation for individuals with epilepsy.
https://www.bcm.edu/healthcare/care-centers/epilepsy
713-798-2273
Houston Area Partnership for FASD
Volunteer Partnership of organizations supporting FASD services. Facilitates parent support group.
https://www.facebook.com/HAPFASD/timeline
amy.fasd@yahoo.com
Autism/Asperger Syndrome
Focus Academy Transitions programs – Woodlands, West Houston Stafford
Skills training, advocacy and family consultation for autism spectrum and ADD/ADHD concerns. Specific autism transition program.
Café Azul – Rosharon, Texas
Support group for families with children with a diagnosis of Autism. The group provides support and educates, inspire and motivate relatives and professionals that work with individuals in the Autism spectrum. Please Contact: Giset King.
My Autism Team (Houston web parent directory)
Links to providers and a large parent networking connection via its meet up place on the web.
The Coffee House- A service of the Harris Center for Mental Health and IDD – Southwest
For individuals with Asperger/Autism Disorder and limited cognitive delays. Social skills training, transitional support, prevocational training, individualized treatment plans.
https://www.theharriscenter.org/About/News/Agency-News/ArticleId/24/the-coffeehouse-brewing-a-fresh-new-you
713-970-7000
Harris Center for Mental Health and IDD (formally MHMRA) – Central/Southwest
Services include those for persons with intellectual disabilities, autism, and other developmental disorders, as well as services to persons with severe mental illness. This agency oversees the HCS Medicaid waiver program. Services for qualified individuals with autism spectrum disorders includes ABA programs, SKIP program, Coffee House, day habilitation, and employment training.
Grand Oak Academy
Grand Oak Academy incorporates Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) principles to ensure that children with autism, speech delays or other types of developmental disabilities are able to receive a quality education at a comfortable pace. We focus our teaching on covering the same skill sets required in a traditional classroom but in a format that works for IDD, intellectual and developmental disabilities.
Private Providers List for ABA Services in Houston
FEAT’s list of private individual and site-based ABA autism services in the Houston area.
http://feathouston.org/resources/private-providers-public-services/
Including Kids – Southwest Houston / The Woodlands
Nonprofit Autism Center that provides a variety of Services for children and young adults ages 2-30 on the Autism spectrum who have all range of abilities and needs through the use of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA). We also provide community services and trainings for people who support individuals with Autism.
Houston Autism Meet up Group – Throughout the city
Houston Autism Meet up group with many interesting share, training and play activities throughout the city via the web space.
ASPIE: Asperger Syndrome Parent-Professional Information Exchange – Sugarland
Support groups for families of individuals with Asperger syndrome and for persons with Asperger syndrome. ASPIE of Houston offers in person support groups Twice a month.
Katy Autism Support Group – Katy
Local Support group in Katy that meets at St. Peter’s United Methodist one time per month.
C.L.A.S.S. Clinic
Specializes in children, adolescents and adults with Autism Disorders. Evaluations and treatment offerings.
https://med.uth.edu/psychiatry/patient-care/adult-services/autism-spectrum-disorder/
713-486-2500
Families for Effective Autism Treatment (FEAT) – Central and other Houston area locations
Information about autism, local resources, and support groups.
Texas Autism Advocacy – Web presence only
Source of information and resources for autism compiled by a local Houston area parent.
Social Motion Skills – Throughout the city
Social Skills training and enrichment classes for children with autism and related developmental disabilities.
http://socialmotionskills.org/
info@socialmotionskills.org
713-461-7200
Therapy & Beyond (Private) – Provides intensive, individual ABA Therapy, Speech Therapy, & OT Therap. Also provides an Academy Program. Serving the Autism Community since 2006.
Provides intensive, individual ABA Therapy, Speech Therapy, & OT Therap. Also provides an Academy Program. Serving the Autism Community since 2006.
www.therapyandbeyond.com
info@therapyandbeyond.com
1-877-909-9665
Therapy and Beyond – Southwest Houston / The Woodlands
Provides intensive, 1:1 ABA and speech therapy for individuals with autism and other developmental disabilities both in-home and in-clinic. Our individualized programs encourage family involvement and are designed on the principles of Applied Behavior Analysis & Skinner’s Analysis of Verbal Behavior (VB) to focus on major areas of development including behavior, language, social, academic and self-help.
RDIconnect – Bellaire
Information, training, family-based programs and curriculum for those who have an autism spectrum disorder.
Spectrum of Hope – Northwest
Treatment Center for autism, language, and other related developmental disabilities. Behavior training includes discrete trial and naturalistic techniques. They do not use a formal ABA methodology such as LOVAAS.
Texana Behavior Improvement Center (formally BTTC) – Fort Bend/Sugarland
Interventions for people with Autism, and Intellectual disability, using Applied Behavior Analysis techniques. Formerly BTTC.
The Shape of Behavior a division of Blue Spring – Various locations
Center-based program providing 30 hours per week of one-on-one ABA therapy to children ages 18 months and up. Six locations.
Deaf / Hearing Impairment
Sign Shares
Translation, interpretation, training services to help people effectively communicate during activities and daily living.
Center for Hearing and Speech – Clinic, school, classes, family support services, including a parent support group for families and children with hearing impairments.
Deaf Houston Post
A newspaper for those with hearing impairments.
Houston Association for Communication Disorders (HACD)
Organization for Speech language pathologists, audiologists, and communication disorders students in the state of Texas.
Deaf Network of Houston- Created by ECHODE
Web network of links, blogs and information regarding deaf services.
Intellectual Disability
Down Syndrome Association of Houston – Various Locations
Information and support for people affected by Down Syndrome.
Harris Center for Mental Health and IDD (formerly MHMRA) – Various Locations
Service to persons with intellectual disabilities, autism, and other developmental disorders, and services to people with severe mental illness. This agency oversees several waiver programs.
Dual Diagnosis Services – Harris Center for Mental Health & Intellectual Disabilities (formerly MHMRA)
Must have a developmental disability such as an autism spectrum disorder or an intellectual disability and a co-occurring mental health diagnosis. Assessment, treatment, day programs, medication monitoring (ages 18+).
http://www.mhmraharris.org/IDD/idddualdxsvc.html
713-970-8340
Texana Behavior Improvement Center (formerly BTTC) – Southwest/Fort Bend and other locations
Therapeutic interventions for people with PDD/Autism, and ID, using Applied Behavior Analysis techniques.
http://www.texanacenter.com/bttc_day_treatment/base_bic.cfm?Nav=BIC
281-239-1300
Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities Needs Council of Harris County
A consortium of local agencies and organizations dedicated to promoting the supports and services necessary for improving the lives of those with intellectual and related, cognitive developmental disabilities.
The Arc of Greater Houston
Information and referral. Social, leisure and respite programs for persons with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Parent support group. Familias Hispanas –Spanish speaking parent support group.
Down Syndrome
Families Exploring Down Syndrome – Galveston/Clear Lake
Support group events and networking in the Galveston, Clear Lake, and Houston areas.
Friends of Down Syndrome – North Houston
Education and learning opportunities for teens and adults with Down syndrome through education, socialization, and community outreach.
Down Syndrome Association of Houston – Various Locations
Information, parent support groups, respite and other services for people affected by Down Syndrome.
Blind/ Vision Impaired
Lighthouse Learning Resources – Online
Online Service store provides Educational Consulting, in-home training, and sensory products for home and community.
www.LHlearningresources.com
Robin@LHlighthoouseresource.com
713-560-7923
CareerConnect
CareerConnect has resources for visually impaired or blind job seekers.
Sight into Sound (Formerly Taping for the Blind)
Non-profit organization with a mission to “Turn Sight into Sound” by enriching the lives of people with visual, physical, and learning disabilities.
VisionAware
VisionAware is designed around the needs of visually impaired adults and seniors.
Blind and Visually Impaired – Texas Health and Human Services
Texas Health and Human Services (HHS) works with people who are blind and visually impaired to help them reach their independence goals.
https://hhs.texas.gov/services/disability/blind-visually-impaired
1-877-541-7905 or 2*1*1
Learning Disabilities
International Dyslexia Association – The Houston Branch
Information and referral, newsletter and trainings.
Texas Reading Institute/Family Literacy – West Houston
Extensive reading programs for students with all types of reading difficulties. Comprehensive assessments available for reading disorders.
Neuhaus Education Center – Central
Provides parent information, some training and links to trained reading tutors. In depth training and certification for special education professionals in reading intervention.
Muscular Dystrophy
Muscular Dystrophy Association
Support groups in the greater Houston area for individuals and their families affected by any of the 40 neuromuscular diseases.
https://www.facebook.com/MDAHOUSTON & http://www.mda.org/office/houston
713-522-1426
Mental Illness
Menninger Clinic (at Baylor College of Medicine) – Medical Center
Comprehensive treatment for adults and adolescents with complex mental illness, anxiety, and eating disorders.
Nami Basics Course (and others) – Various Locations
This family-to-family class provides a great deal of useful information about specific disorders, advocacy, coping, rehabilitation as well as other concerns for caregivers of children with brain disorders (disorders include mental health as well as cognitive/learning impairments). A program of National Alliance on Mental Illness. Several are offered in Houston.
Harris County Psychiatric Center
Various inpatient and outpatient, mental health services as well as a useful links page on the website.
Mental Health America of Greater Houston – Central
Educational training concerning mental health issues; legislative advocacy. The resource guide contains many residential placement options, hospitals, and psychiatrists.
Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences
University of Texas psychiatric services including adult and child clinics, the C.L.A.S.S. Clinic and the Developmental Neuropsychology Clinic.
Depression and Bipolar Support Alliance of Houston – Multiple Locations
Information, referral, and support groups for persons with mood disorders.
National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) – Various Locations
Information and referral, support groups, multi-week courses including Visions for Tomorrow.
Harris Center for Mental Health & IDD (formally MHMRA) – Various Locations
Provides service to persons with intellectual disabilities, autism, and other developmental disorders, and services to persons with severe mental illness. This agency over sees several waiver programs for children with disabilities.
Attention Deficit Disorder/ADHD
Attention Deficit Disorders Association – Southern Region, Multiple Support Group Sites
Information and support for people affected by ADD/ADHD. See website for current support group listings.
http://www.adda-sr.org
addaoffice@sbcglobal.net
281-897-4932
Cerebral Palsy
Easter Seals Disability Services (formerly UCP Houston) – Various Locations
Provides services for children and adults with disabilities, including therapeutic programs, social and leisure activities, and caregiver respite.
Tourette Syndrome
Muscular Dystrophy Association
Support groups in the greater Houston area for individuals and their families affected by any of the 40 neuromuscular diseases.
https://www.facebook.com/MDAHOUSTON
http://www.mda.org/office/houston
713-522-1426
Other Need Support- General, not specifically disability related
Crisis Services
The Door (Shelter)
Shelter for Battered women and their children. Counseling for sexual assault, incest, and rape. Parenting classes for persons going through a divorce. Fees for service based on a sliding scale. Bilingual counseling program for victims of domestic violence and their children. General parenting course. Anger management at Dayton location. No fees for services to crime victims.
Child Protective Services
Investigates the abuse and neglect of children, including medical neglect. Provides services to families in crisis.
http://www.txabusehotline.org/Login/Default.aspx
800-252-5400
Casa Juan Diego
Shelter and help for undocumented Hispanic battered women and children. Food distribution every other Tuesday. Provides assistance to pregnant undocumented women. Shelter for immigrants and refugees. Health Clinic available. Call for more information.
Adult Protective Services
Investigates abuse and neglect of adults with disabilities, including financial exploitation, neglect by caregivers, and self-neglect.
http://www.txabusehotline.org/Login/Default.aspx
800-252-5400
WIC (Women, Infants, and Children)
A free nutrition program that helps pregnant women, new mothers, and young children eat well, learn about nutrition and stay healthy. Nutrition counseling, nutritious foods, and help accessing health care.
Coalition for the Homeless
They have a useful resource on their website, The Help Card. This resource provides emergency shelter information, food pantry information and other basic, immediate needs information.
The Bridge
Provides residential emergency shelter for 100nwomen and children who are battered, sexually assaulted, or homeless. Permanent housing program (Destiny Village). Both programs have daycare centers. Counseling provided. Community education speakers available. Rape crisis counseling and accompaniment. Sexual abuse groups. Legal assistance. Survivors of family violence support group. Parent Education.
http://www.thebridgeovertroublewaters.org/
713-472-0753
713-473-2802
Amos House of Faith after burns club
Provides post-burn support for children affected by burn tragedy. Support groups for grades K-8. Support for any child with a burn injury, any child with family member who has a burn injury, and any child who has lost a loved one due to a burn injury.
Casa de Esperanza – Medical Center Area
Voluntary foster care for children ages 0 – 6 who are at risk of abuse or neglect due to family crisis and / or the child’s special needs. Case work services provided to the family to develop a safe, stable environment for the child’s return.
Houston Area Women’s Center
Provides shelter, counseling, and support services to survivors of domestic and sexual violence. Services available in Spanish.
Daya
Educational Seminars, counseling, peer support, advocacy and referral for South-Asian families. Legal Advocacy and financial support. Housing assistance, crisis intervention, and job resources. Services available in Hindi, Urdu, Punjab, Gujarati, Tamil, Bengali, Telugu, and Farsi.
Basic Needs Support
Gulf Coast Community Services Association – Multiple Locations
Basic needs assistance including food pantry, clothing, and prescription vouchers, bus tokens for employment, and employment training.
Gateway to Care – Harris County
Information, low-cost community healthcare services for the uninsured and underinsured in Harris County.
HireAHelper
HireAHelper is a platform that connects everyday people with moving services they can love and afford./n HireAHelper is committed to helping families in different ways-one of them is creating guides from their experience.
ECHOS (Epiphany Community Health Outreach Services) – Southwest Houston
This program helps people without insurance gain access to existing health and social services, regardless of ability to pay or immigration status. Please call or visit website for more information.
Harris County Health System (Gold Card referral)
A Harris County Hospital District program which provides access to county hospital and health services for persons with extremely low income. Call the above number for eligibility determination (part of the Ben Taub system).
https://www.harrishealth.org/en/patients/access-care/eligibility-card/pages/default.aspx
713-634-1000
Community Youth Services Resource Directory – Multiple locations
A wealth of information about Houston area programs serving children and families, including basic needs support, medical, psychological, and legal resources.
http://www.hc-ps.org/CYS_Resource_Directory.pdf
713-394-4000
General Cultural Health Care Resources
Chinese Community Center – West Houston
Referral and support for Asian Americans and Asian Immigrants to Houston. Offers some health, educations, and caregiver support services. Services available in Chinese.
Vietnamese Culture and Science Association – Southwest
Camps, information and referral, social and educational events, radio programming.
Community Family Center – East Houston
Various community programs including health care and counseling. Services available in Spanish.
Arab-American Cultural and Community Center – Southwest Houston
Cultural and social programs, including free health screenings. Services available in Arabic.
General Childhood
Child Builders
Non-profit organization advocating for children’s mental health and emotional wellness. Provides parents and children with resources and life skills training to build healthy families.
Social & Leisure
Social & Leisure
Dionysus Theatre Troupe – Southwest Houston
Provides a theatre experience for teens and young adults who are disabled, disadvantaged, chronically ill, or those able-bodied actors who want to help us spread our message of love, dignity and tolerance for people of all abilities.
Children’s Museum of Houston – Houston
Sensory friendly/explore ability days at the museum for children with special needs; several per season. RSVP required.
http://www.cmhouston.org/sensory-explore-abilities-childrens-museum
Nameless Sound Music Classes – Central/Southeast
Music classes for special needs students.
Special Olympics – Houston
Year-round sports training and athletic competition in a variety of Olympic-type sports for persons eight years of age and older with intellectual disabilities.
Texas Adaptive Aquatics – Northeast / Lake Houston
*Some programs free* Water sports for persons with physical and mental disabilities. All ability levels.
Miracle League – Northwest
Sports team opportunity at Langham Creek Family YMCA.
https://www.ymcahouston.org/ymca-miracle-league/
https://www.facebook.com/miracleleaguehouston
Metropolitan Multi-Service Center – Central
A recreational & sports center for people of all ages with mental & physical disabilities.
Bridging Lives – Spring Branch area
Respite, social and in-home training services.
http://www.bridging-lives.com/index.php
Bridges6055@yahoo.com
281-890-3111
Mikey’s Place
Great resource for a guide with listings of camps, summer programs and other social and leisure activities around Houston.
Vern Cox Multi-Purpose Center – Pasadena
A recreational sports center for people of all ages with mental and physical disabilities.
The River Performing and Visual Arts Center – Central
A barrier-free, affordable arts enrichment program for children aged 2-19 with disabilities and / or chronic illness, as well as their siblings and friends.
Dream Catcher Stables – Spring
Recreational horseback riding for persons with disabilities, including learning disabilities.
Overnight camps, day and weekend activities, monthly dances, vacations offering opportunities to create friendships, explore their community, and develop new skills. We offer a range of services aimed at promoting overall well-being. At the same time, it allows caregivers much needed respite.
Guardianship Information and Assistance
Attorneys
Marissa Garcia (Spanish speaking)
Wright Abshire Attorneys
Michele Goldberg
Non-Attorney Guardianship and Estate Planning Assistance
The Arc of Texas, Master Pooled Trust
Steve Rhatigan/Archer Consulting
MassMutual Greater Houston Specialcare
The MassMutual Greater Houston Specialcare planning is a Team that focuses on helping families identify and prioritize financial goals and objectives for their loved ones with special needs by implementing strategies that are designed to help leave a legacy in the more cost-effective and tax-efficient way.
https://greaterhouston.massmutual.com/specialcare
619-252-5230
General
Brazos Bend Guardianship Services
Guardianship Information Sessions, Guardianship Assistance Program, Money management program, Corporate Guardianship Program.
Treatment Services (Behavioral and Medical)
Treatment Services
MedCare Pediatric – Southwest
Occupational, physical and speech therapy.
The Harris Center for Mental Health and IDD (formally MHMRA) – Various Locations
Provides service to persons with intellectual disabilities, autism, and other developmental disorders, and service stoppers on with severe mental illness. This agency oversees several Medicaid Waiver programs for people with developmental disabilities.
MAXINE MESINGER MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS CLINIC – Baylor College of Medicine
Comprehensive patient care, research, and referrals for persons with multiple sclerosis. Services available in Spanish.
https://www.bcm.edu/healthcare/care-centers/multiple-sclerosis
713-798-2273
Bay Area Rehabilitation Center
Out Patient Therapeutic, Vocational, Social Skill Training and recreational Services for persons with disabilities or injuries support services for their families. The Center also seeks to advocate for and work to provide accessible and affordable housing.
Connections Center/RDI Connect – Bellaire
Information, training and curriculum for those who have an autism spectrum disorders and ADHD.
TIRR (The Institute for Rehabilitation and Research) – Multiple Locations
Interdisciplinary rehabilitation services, patient care, medical education, and research. Provides a complete continuum of care for patients needing medical rehabilitation.
http://www.memorialhermann.org/locations/TIRR.html
1-800-44-REHAB
Care Connections Aging & Disability Resource Center (ADRC)
Provides services for the needs of older adults with disabilities & caregivers in Harris County.
Winter & Associates Pediatric Rehabilitation Center – Multiple Locations
A comprehensive outpatient rehabilitation facility for children, providing occupational, physical, and speech therapy. Provides transportation to those who qualify. Services provided in English, Spanish, Chinese, Cantonese, and Italian.
IntraCare Hospital
Day treatment for dual diagnosis and emotional issues. Services for adolescents and adults.
Texana Behavior Improvement Center
Therapeutic interventions for people with Autism, and ID.
Menninger Clinic (at Baylor College of Medicine) – Medical Center
Comprehensive treatment for adults and adolescents with complex mental illness (co-occurring conditions), specializing in anxiety and eating disorders.
Brite Success – Kingwood
Applied Behavior Analysis therapy, speech therapy, occupational therapy and transition services.
Meyer Center for Developmental Pediatrics – Texas Children’s Hospital
The Meyer Center provides diagnosis and individualized treatment planning for infants, children and adolescents with suspected developmental and/or learning problems. Provides written treatment plans and testing to parents and referring physicians.
http://www.texaschildrens.org/departments/developmental-pediatrics
832-824-1000
SIRE Therapeutic Horsemanship – Houston, Fort Bend, Spring
Therapeutic horseback riding for persons with disabilities
Ask Your Nurse – Harris County
https://www.harrishealth.org/services-hh/outreach/Pages/ask-a-nurse.aspx
713-634-1110
Team Pediatric Therapy – North
Occupational, speech and physical therapy, also Handwriting without Tears curriculum and program.
The Center for Hearing and Speech – Central
Clinical and educational programs focusing on oral deaf education (encouraging speech production and recognition rather than sign language).
Employment/ Day Habilitation
Employment/ Day Habilitation
Sean Ashley House – Southwest Houston
Adult day habilitation program for HCS (Medicaid waiver) recipients with individualized life skill straining. Accepts non-HCS Recipients also.
Level Employment Services – Houston
Continuing education program for students with intellectual disabilities, job training, computer training, interviewing skills training, etc.
Lennar Life and Work Skills Program
Continuing education program for students with intellectual disabilities, job training, computer training, interviewing skills training, etc.
Higginbothams Staffing Solutions – Stafford, Texas
Assistance with job placement, supported employment.
H.E.A.R.T. Program
Specific vocational training program for gainful employment of individuals with developmental disabilities including intellectual disabilities and autism.
Client Assistance Program (CAP)
If you are a person who has a disability, the Client Assistance Program (CAP) may be able to help you to reach your goals to live more independently and go to work. This is what we do. CAP helps people who are getting services, or who are trying to get services, from the Department of Assistive and Rehabilitative Services, (DARS) – Division for Rehabilitation Services (DRS) and Division for Blind Services (DBS), Independent Living Centers (ILCs) that receive federal funds, or Projects with Industry (PWI) programs.
https://www.disabilityrightstx.org/resources/employment
800-252-9108
Bethesda/Good Samaritan – Cypress
Supported employment for HCS recipients.
http://bethesdalutherancommunities.org/page.aspx?pid=609
281-516-4021
Mayor’s Committee for Employment of Persons w / Disabilities
Provides support to job seekers with disabilities, and to employers.
The Brookwood Community – Brookshire
A residential community of adults with disabilities providing life skills, social, and vocational training.
The Center (CRI) – Central
Adult activity center providing day habilitation with a sheltered workshop.
The Summerhouse
Post high school education center for young adults with intellectual disabilities. Program’s focus is vocational, integration, socialization without limitation.
All the Little Things Count – Multiple Locations
Day habilitation program with sheltered workshop, for HCS recipients from Brazoria, Fort Bend, Galveston, Harris, Montgomery, and Wharton counties.
Reach Unlimited
Vocation skills, independent living, day habilitation offered.
Gulf Coast Community Services Association – Multiple Locations
Adult literacy, GED, and ESL classes. Employment training and support services — available in Spanish.
http://www.gulfcoastcommunityservicesassociation.org/outreachoverview.html
713-393-4700
Jewish Family Services – Houston
Jewish Family Services offers free assistance and employment workshops to help displaced professionals and persons with disabilities seeking jobs.
Mounting Horizons Inc
Vocational training such as interviewing skills, resume preparation and job-seeking skills is provided to encourage employment.
Hope Village – Friendswood
Residential and day programs, including a developmental work center, for individuals with intellectual and other related developmental disabilities.
Bay Area Rehabilitation Center/Baytown Opportunity Center – Baytown
Supervised work training, structured workshops and classrooms.
VAST (Vocational Advancement and Social Skills Training) Program of HCC – Various Locations
Educational opportunities for individuals who have learning, developmental, and/or physical disabilities. Courses are offered in the following areas: Academic, Personal / Social Development, Enrichment and Computers.
Techs and Trainers – Southwest Houston
Technology and skills training covering computer rebuilding.
The Harris Center for Mental Health and IDD (Formally MHMRA)
Various vocational programs for persons diagnosed with an Autism Spectrum Disorder or intellectual disabilities. Services available in Spanish.
Texana – Rosenberg
Supported employment for persons with intellectual disabilities and /or mental illness.
Legal Issues
Legal Issues
Dispute Resolution Center
Houston Lawyer Referral Service
Houston Volunteer Lawyers Program
Legal Line
Free phone advice on 1st & 3rd Wednesdays of each month. 5 – 9 pm.
Lone Star Legal Aid
Some guardianship and special education cases have been taken in the past.
http://www.lonestarlegal.org
http://www.lonestarlegal/org/Types-of-Cases.pl
Disability Rights Texas: East Region (formerly Advocacy, Inc.)
Provides direct advocacy services including employment advocacy for individuals with disabilities. However, they only take cases that fall within their chosen focus areas for a given year. The website has great, down loadable publications on a variety of special education and other legal concerns. Services available in Spanish.
Transportation/ Accessible Transportation
Transportation/ Accessible Transportation
Metro Lift
Information about the accessibility of Houston Metro system, and how to use Metro Lift services.
http://www.ridemetro.org/Pages/Accessibility.aspx
713-635-4000
Texas Health Steps
Children with Medicaid and their parent can get free rides to get to and from the doctor, Dentist, hospital, or drug store. Some Adults with Medicaid can get free rides, too.
Adaptive/Assistive Technology (AT)
Adaptive/Assistive Technology (AT)
Region 4 Education Center – Northwest Houston
Resources, Texas Assistive Technology Network leader partner which holds its annual conference at Region 4. District program evaluation of AT devices. All AT focus is on the educational needs for students receiving special education services in public schools. The summer AT conference they host is beneficial for parents and professionals.
http://www.texasat.net/
http://www.esc4.net/default.aspx?name=ses.at
713-462-7708
Abilities.com – Houston Expo – Central
National AT organization that hosts an annual summer conference in Houston for people with disabilities.
Bridging Apps – Part of Easter Seals of Greater Houston – Central
Assistance using mobile devices to target skill development, huge database of mobile applications with reviews, direct AT evaluations for apps needs, free web course “Getting Started with Mobile Devices for Special Needs: Accessories and Safety”, assistive technology labs to try out equipment.
Child Care
Child Care
Collaborative for Children – West Houston
Parent and community education regarding child care issues. On-line or telephone referral for child care services to meet specific family needs. Parenting classes offered. Services available in Spanish.
http://www.collabforchildren.org/families/find-child-care
713-600-1234
Child Care Licensing (TDFPS) – Austin (Statewide)
Online search tool for childcare providers by county or city, age of child, type of care requested. And other variables. Search can be limited to “special needs” only. Also provides information about childcare licensing standards and procedures in Texas.
Respite
Local/State Agencies and Nonprofit Organizations That Provide Respite
The Center for Pursuit
Day and overnight respite services for people with intellectual disabilities. Day respite is available on a partial or full day basis. Overnight respite stays cannot exceed 30 days. Fee for services.
The Arc of Greater Houston Chapter
On-going group respite activities in the community for individuals with intellectual and other developmental disabilities. Children and adults served by differing programs. Fees for programs. Activities include: Saturday Fun Day, Adventure Club / Greater Houston Recreation, Weekend Respite, Summer day and overnight camps.
Bridging Lives – Spring Branch area
Residential Services, Respite and Social Group, Social Skills and Recreation summer campus, in-home training services.
Easter Seals of Greater Houston (formerly UCP Houston)
They provide respite services for individuals with Cerebral Palsy and other disabilities. Financial assistance may be provided in some cases. Respite activities include ongoing programs as well as in-home respite services.
http://www.eastersealshouston.org/Programs/respite-services.html
713-838-9050
The Harris Center for Mental Health and IDD (formally MHMRA)
All respite services require intake completion and there is typically a fairly long waiting list. However, they provide a wide range of respite services, including in-home respite if the individual qualifies. An intellectual developmental disability and or an Autism spectrum diagnosis are required. Financial assistance if qualified.
http://www.mhmraharris.org/IDD/networkmanagement.html
713-970-7616
Medical Equipment
Medical Equipment
Texas Health and Human Services
Formerly DARS– Vocational services including adaptive equipment (available to some graduating school students and older) with disabilities that will need assistance in gaining employment. Applicant guide available in Spanish.
https://www.twc.texas.gov
https://www.twc.texas.gov/informacion-en-espanol
512-463-2222
Epic Medical Solutions
Provides enteral feeding, incontinence, nutritional formulas, diabetic supplies, ostomy, wound care, tracheostomy and other medical supplies. Medicaid, Medicare, private insurance.
Angel Medical Supply
Pediatric medical supplies; focus is on respiratory care but also provides standard medical equipment and nutritional supplies. Accepts Medicaid, CHIP, BCBS (PPO), some private insurance, no United Health Care.
The Care Group
Respiratory and Medical equipment services for Houston and surrounding areas.
Housing and Home Modification / Accessibility
Housing and Home Modification / Accessibility
Private Provider Association of Texas
Organization of private group home providers in Texas.
Gulf Coast Community Services Association – Multiple Locations
The Home & Safety Security Program conducts homes inspections for elderly persons or persons with disabilities to check for safety and security concerns. Includes installation of wheelchair ramps, and basic repairs.
Coalition for Barrier Free Living – Southwest Houston & Angleton
Housing advice, assistance and counseling for persons with disabilities.
Transition
Transition
Transition Workshop for Parents – Central
When: 3rd Thursday of every odd month. Time: 6:30pm – 8:00pm. Location: Shriners Hospital (6th floor) – 6977 Main St. (just past intersection of Main & Holcombe). Parking: Hospital Parking is Free. Speakers to be announced. Children, Youth & Transitioning Young Adults are also welcome. Spanish Translation available
The Vocational Rehabilitation System in Texas
The Texas Workforce Solutions Vocational Rehabilitation Program (TWC-VR) provides vocational rehabilitation (VR) services in Texas. The Vocational rehabilitation program provides services which help people who have disabilities prepare for, keep, or get a job.