Mental health crisis line 988 - Línea de crisis de Salud Mental 988
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Autism Support
Georgia Autism Center
The Georgia Autism Center (GAC) is highly committed and eager to assist individuals and families of children or loved ones with an autism spectrum and other related neurodevelopmental disorders to receive proper diagnoses, aid in the development of their individualized treatment plans, enhance independence, and foster the utmost quality of their lives.
Advocacy
At Debbie Dobbs Advocacy, their mission is to stand beside families of children with disabilities, providing compassionate guidance, skilled advocacy, and unwavering support. We work to secure the educational services and financial resources each child needs to thrive, ensuring no family has to navigate this journey alone.
Katie Beckett
To apply for the Katie Beckett Program in Georgia, you will need to complete an application and provide documentation of your child's disability and medical needs. The Katie Beckett program offers Medicaid Coverage to children under 18 who have a disability and live at home instead of an institution.
Qualification is not based on medical diagnosis; instead it is based on the institutional level of care the child requires. Title 42 Code of Federal Regulations outlines the criteria used to determine eligibility.
Medicaid applications may be obtained by contacting the Centralized Katie Beckett Medicaid Team at 678-248-7449 or from the county Division of Family and Children Services (DFCS) office in the child's county of residence. To apply for Medicaid, you must submit the completed signed application to the Centralized Katie Beckett Medicaid Team. You may also submit the completed signed application to any local DFCS office, by mail, telephone, or fax, or you may apply online at www.gateway.ga.gov.
Download this pdf file. English Katie Beckett Application - Updated 01/30/25
Download this pdf file. Spanish Katie Beckett Application - Updated 01/30/25
The Katie Beckett program has announced a change in its application process. Effective immediately, all medical level of care determinations that are verified to meet the standard for Katie Beckett approval will be authorized for a period of no less than two years. This change applies to all new and existing applicants. For information on this change please click Download this pdf file. here .
Please note effective June 17, 2024, Katie Beckett applications are no longer accepted at P.O. Box 172 Norcross, GA 30091.
Please continue to submit applications to:
Katie Beckett Medicaid Team Physical Address
2211 Beaver Ruin Road Suite 150
Norcross, GA 30071
Items en route using the P.O. Box will be forwarded, which may cause a slight delay.
Centralized Katie Beckett Medicaid Team
Phone: 678-248-7449
Fax: 678-248-7459
Fitness Classes for All Levels
RESOURCES FOR INDIVIDUALS AND FAMILIES LIVING WITH AUTISM IN GEORGIA
Helping Children with Autism Navigate
Winter’s Cold
Dear GAC Families and Friends,
As we step into a new year, I want to take a moment to thank you for trusting Georgia Autism Center with your child’s care. January often brings a mix of fresh starts, shifting routines, and—this year especially—some very cold weather ahead. Our hope is that this newsletter offers practical support and reassurance as we head into February together.
I’m also excited to share that our new location is officially open, and it truly is fabulous. We are so happy to be in a space that better supports our patients, families, and care teams. One important note as you plan your visits: the McGinnis Ferry Road entrance is currently closed. Please allow a little extra time for your drive and enter from the Union Hill Road entrance—we promise the destination is worth it, and we appreciate your patience as nearby roadwork continues.
As always, our team is here to support your child’s unique needs through every season of the year. We are grateful to be part of your journey.
Warmly,
Dr. Jaymie Fox
Georgia Autism Center
Click the image above to download the full-page flyer for
convenient printing.
Helping Your Child Adjust to Frigid
Winter Temperatures
With unusually cold temperatures expected this February, many families may notice that winter weather can add extra challenges for children on the autism spectrum. Cold air, bulky clothing, and changes to daily routines can all impact comfort and regulation.
Common Winter Challenges
- Sensory discomfort from coats, hats, gloves, and layered clothing
- Abrupt routine changes due to indoor recess, weather-related closures, or canceled activities
- Increased difficulty with transitions, especially when moving between warm and cold environments
Supportive Strategies That Can Help
- Prepare ahead of time: Visual weather charts or simple conversations about upcoming cold days can help children anticipate changes.
- Offer choices when possible: Letting your child choose between two jackets or types of gloves can increase comfort and cooperation.
- Use soft base layers: Lightweight, soft fabrics under heavier coats can reduce sensory irritation.
- Plan warm-up routines: After being outdoors, build in time for calming activities such as reading, warm drinks, or quiet play.
Remember, winter adjustments take time. Small accommodations and predictable routines can go a long way in helping your child feel safe and supported during colder months.
Sensory-Friendly Slow Cooker Chicken
& Rice Soup
A cozy, mild-flavored meal for cold winter days
This comforting soup is warm, familiar, and easy to adjust for sensory preferences. The soft textures and gentle flavors make it a reliable option during colder months when routines and regulation may feel harder.
Ingredients
- 1½–2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 1 cup white rice (long-grain or jasmine work well)
- 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 cup carrots, finely chopped or sliced thin (optional)
- 1 cup celery, finely chopped (optional)
- 1 small onion, finely diced or onion powder to taste (optional)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
- ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to preference)
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper (optional)
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
Instructions
- Place chicken in the bottom of the slow cooker.
- Add broth, rice, vegetables (if using), olive oil or butter, and seasonings.
- Stir gently to combine.
- Cover and cook on LOW for 6–7 hours or HIGH for 3–4 hours, until chicken is fully cooked and rice is tender.
- Remove chicken, shred with two forks, then return it to the soup.
- Stir and let sit for 10–15 minutes before serving to allow flavors to settle.
Sensory-Friendly Tips
- Texture control: Remove vegetables after cooking or blend a small portion of the soup and stir back in for a smoother consistency.
- Flavor flexibility: Keep seasonings minimal or let each family member add salt or pepper individually.
- Temperature regulation: Serve warm—not hot—to avoid temperature-related sensory discomfort.
Optional Add-Ins (If Tolerated)
- Soft dinner rolls or crackers on the side
- A sprinkle of mild shredded cheese
- Extra broth for a thinner texture
Supporting the Caregivers: Winter Self-Care When You’re Caring for a Child with Autism
Caring for a child with autism is meaningful, rewarding work—but it can also be physically and emotionally demanding, especially during the winter months. Shorter days, colder weather, disrupted routines, and added stress around schedules and illnesses can leave caregivers feeling depleted.
It’s important to remember: caring for yourself is not a luxury. It is a necessary part of supporting your child.
Why Winter Can Feel Harder
Winter often brings:
- Fewer opportunities for outdoor movement and sensory regulation
- Increased behavioral challenges due to routine disruptions
- Heightened stress from illness, weather changes, or school schedule shifts
These challenges don’t mean you’re doing anything wrong—they’re a natural response to environmental changes.
Small Ways to Care for Yourself
Self-care doesn’t have to be time-consuming or elaborate. Even small, intentional moments can help restore energy and emotional balance.
- Lower the bar when needed. Some days, getting through the day is the win.
- Create brief moments of quiet. A few minutes of deep breathing, stretching, or silence can help reset your nervous system.
- Stick to simple routines. Predictability benefits caregivers, too—not just children.
- Ask for help when possible. Whether it’s leaning on a partner, family member, or trusted friend, support matters.
Give Yourself Grace
You may notice that when your child is struggling, your stress level rises as well. That connection is real—and it’s okay. Progress isn’t linear, and winter transitions can take time.
Be gentle with yourself. Your presence, patience, and consistency make a meaningful difference, even on the hardest days.
Remember: You’re Not Alone
At Georgia Autism Center, we recognize that supporting a child means supporting the entire family. If winter routines feel overwhelming or you’re noticing increased stress at home, our team is here to help guide you through this season.
Taking care of yourself is one of the most powerful ways you care for your child.
UPCOMING EVENTS, CLASSES & RESOURCES