HELPFUL INFORMATION AND RESOURCES
At the Tip of Your Fingers
WHAT IS ABA
“Applied Behavior Analysis is the process of systematically applying interventions based upon the principles of learning theory to improve socially significant behaviors to a meaningful degree, and to demonstrate that the interventions employed are responsible for the improvement in behavior“
-Baer, Wolf, & Risley (1968)
RESOURCES FOR FAMILIES
The Association for Science in Autism Treatment is a great central location for information about Autism and treatment for individuals with Autism.
LAF is a non-profit organization serving families of individuals with Autism throughout the Lowcountry by offering awareness of services available to families in the Lowcountry as well as additional services while families begin the new journey into the world of Autism.
Local Resources:
Adult Autism Services (Ages 18+) SC Department of Disabilities & Special Needs (DDSN) Main access point for adult autism services DDSN can help with:
• Residential services (group homes, supported living)
• Day programs / adult activity centers
• In-home supports
• Behavioral support services
• Respite care (limited)
• Medicaid Waiver access Charleston County DDSN Board
📞 (843) 556-0331
Important: Apply as soon as possible. Waitlists are long, especially for residential services.
MEDICAID & FINANCIAL SUPPORTS
Medicaid Waivers (ID/RD Waiver)
Covers many adult supports, including housing and day programs.
📞 DDSN Waiver Services: (803) 898-9625
🌐 ddsn.sc.gov/services/medicaid-waivers
Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
Monthly income for adults with disabilities (parent income no longer counts at 18).
📞 (800) 772-1213
DAY PROGRAMS & STRUCTURED SUPPORTS
(Availability depends on DDSN enrollment)
Examples in the Lowcountry:
• Coastal Day Programs
• Abilities Unlimited
• Babcock Center (regional services)
Services may include:
• Daily structure and supervision
• Life skills training
• Community outings
• Social opportunities
EMPLOYMENT SUPPORT (If Appropriate)
SC Vocational Rehabilitation (SCVRD)
For adults who can work with supports.
📞 Charleston Office: (843) 953-1200
🌐 scvrd.sc.gov
BEHAVIORAL & CRISIS SUPPORTS
988 Crisis Line (SC)
Call or text 988 for behavioral or mental health crises. SC Department of Mental Health For co-occurring mental health needs.
📞 Charleston Mental Health Center: (843) 414-2350
🌐 scdmh.net
LEGAL & LONG-TERM PLANNING
Families may need:
• Guardianship or conservatorship
• Special Needs Trusts (to protect Medicaid/SSI)
Help finding attorneys:
ADVOCACY & FAMILY SUPPORT
Family Connection of South Carolina
One-on-one guidance for navigating services.
📞 (800) 578-8750
Protection & Advocacy SC
Disability rights and advocacy support.
📞 (866) 275-7273
Adult services in South Carolina are limited and wait-listed, but support does exist.
➡️ DDSN enrollment + SSI + Medicaid Waivers are the foundation.