Resources in Southern California
We created this list to help families access trusted services and support.
These are resources we often use when helping families navigate disability services, school systems, and community programs.
Housing & School Stability
McKinney-Vento Act
If your child is experiencing unstable housing (shelter, motel, or doubling up), they have legal rights.
This includes:
staying in their school of origin
transportation
access to services and support
Financial & Caregiver Support
IHSS (In-Home Supportive Services)
You may qualify to be paid as your child’s caregiver, if your child has a disability and needs support at home.
Website: cdss.ca.gov
CalABLE
A tax-free savings account for disability-related expenses that does not affect SSI or other benefits.
Website: calable.ca.gov
Behavioral Health Support
Helping the Behaviorally Challenging Child
Located in Tustin, HBCC provides parent training, coaching, and support for children with behavioral challenges, including ADHD, autism, anxiety, and other neurodiverse needs.
HBCC uses an evidence-based approach called Collaborative Problem Solving (CPS). This approach focuses on the idea that challenging behavior comes from lagging skills, not willful behavior.
They help parents and caregivers:
understand behavior differently
build skills like problem-solving and emotional regulation
reduce conflict at home and school
improve relationships with their child
Services include:
parent training classes (typically 6-week series)
coaching and support groups
trainings for educators and professionals
Classes are often held in Tustin with some virtual options available.
Website: https://hbcc.us
BrightLife Kids
Free virtual behavioral health support for families with children ages 0–12 in California.
No cost. No referral needed.
Website: brightlife.kids/ca
Call: 888-275-5357
Parent Support & Advocacy
Team of Advocates for Special Kids (TASK)
Anaheim, CA
(866) 828-8275
www.taskca.org
EPU Children’s Center
Fresno, CA
(888) 774-8981
www.epuchildren.org
Parent Center Hub (California)
Wrightslaw
Parent-friendly information on special education law, IEP rights, and advocacy.
Website: wrightslaw.com
Legal Advocacy
Disability Rights California
Free legal advocacy for:
special education
Regional Center services
disability rights
Website: disabilityrightsca.org
Regional Centers
Regional Centers provide lifelong services and support for individuals with developmental disabilities, including autism.
Services may include:
respite care
service coordination
funding for supports
Regional Center of Orange County
Serves Orange County
www.rcocdd.com
San Diego Regional Center
Serves San Diego County
www.sdrc.org
Inland Regional Center
Serves Riverside & San Bernardino Counties
www.inlandrc.org
Los Angeles Regional Center
Serves parts of Los Angeles County
www.larc.org
If you are not sure which Regional Center applies to you, we can help.
Autism & Developmental Services
UC Irvine Center for Autism & Neurodevelopmental Disorders
Provides diagnostic evaluations, medical care, and support for children with autism and developmental differences.
Website: https://candi.uci.edu
Thompson Autism and Neurodevelopmental Center
Located at CHOC, this center provides evaluations, diagnosis, and support services for children with autism and developmental needs.
Website: https://www.choc.org/programs-services/thompson-autism-center/
Need help navigating these resources?
You do not have to figure this out alone.
We can help you understand what applies to your child and what steps to take next.
Start with a free disability services navigation - consultation