ADVOCACY & PARENT TRAINING
Embedded Files
AUTISM PARENT TRAININGS & SUPPORTS
WAIVER & COMMUNITY SUPPORT SERVICES
Q & A
Q & A
Q: What is DARS?
Q: What is DARS?
A: In simple terms.... DARS helps your child with a disability plan for life after high school by supporting job skills, independence, and the transition into adulthood—at their own pace and ability level.
A: In simple terms.... DARS helps your child with a disability plan for life after high school by supporting job skills, independence, and the transition into adulthood—at their own pace and ability level.
---
---
Q: How can DARS help with jobs and careers?
Q: How can DARS help with jobs and careers?
A: It can help your child figure out what kind of work might fit them; offers job training, career exploration, and skill building; and can help with job coaching and support once they are working.
---
---
Q: What is transition planning? When do I start that?
Q: What is transition planning? When do I start that?
A: Transition planning is making a plan for your child’s life after high school. Usually you start the process around ages 14-16 with the school IEP team.
---
---
Q: How can DARS help with transition planning?
Q: How can DARS help with transition planning?
A: DARS will work alongside the school during the transition planning, which happens directly with your student and through the IEP process. They will focus on life after high school, not just academics. (Think of it as a mix of job readiness and life skills.)
---
---
Q: How can DARS help with independence and life skills?
A: DARS supports with things like communication skills, social skills, time management, and daily living skills needed for work OR independent living!
---
---
Q: Does DARS help with providing or paying for education and training support?
A: It might! DARS may help pay for job-related classes, college or trade school (when appropriate), certifications, or vocational training. Think of DARS as a guide and connector. They help figure out what training makes sense, where to get it, and how to access or afford it. DARS usually helps you find the right training and connects you to it by working with community colleges, trade schools, training programs, and other providers.
---
Q: What does "Assistive Technology" really mean?
A: Assistive technology simply means tools that help your child do things that might otherwise be hard—like communicating, learning, or working more independently. It can be low-tech or high-tech, and it’s based on what your child actually needs.
---
---
Q: What are examples of Assistive Technology my teen/adult could benefit from?
A: Assistive technology can be anything that helps your teen or adult communicate, learn, work, or live more independently. Examples include:
Communication tools: Speech-generating devices (AAC); Communication apps on tablets or phones;
Technology for learning or work: Voice-to-text or text-to-speech; Visual schedules or reminder apps; Noise-canceling headphones;
Adaptive equipment: Special keyboards or mice; Switches, touch screens, or adapted tools;
Organization & independence supports: Task-prompting apps; Timers and alarms; Smart devices that help with routines; and/or
Mobility or physical supports (if needed for work or daily life): Modified seating; or Adaptive tools or workstations.
---
---
Q: Can DARS help with Assistive Technology?
A: Sometimes. If a tool is needed to help your child prepare for work or succeed in a job, DARS may help identify it and, in some cases, help pay for it.
---
---
Q: Will DARS be able to help me or my child?
Q: Will DARS be able to help me or my child?
A: DARS supports people with many different types and levels of disability—not just those who will work full-time or independently. DARS may be able to help if your teen or adult: Has significant support needs; Will need ongoing help as an adult; Is working toward supported employment rather than a traditional job; or Needs help preparing for adulthood at their own pace.
---
---
Important to know: DARS is not only for “high-functioning” students or college-bound youth. They work with individuals whose paths to adulthood may look different, and whose success may include supports.
The following is from the DARS website, and the associated links will take you directly to the landing pages for each of these services or supports:
The following is from the DARS website, and the associated links will take you directly to the landing pages for each of these services or supports:
DARS' mission is to improve the employment, quality of life, security, and independence of older Virginians, Virginians with disabilities, and their families.
DARS' mission is to improve the employment, quality of life, security, and independence of older Virginians, Virginians with disabilities, and their families.
For an agency overview, click here.
For clickable links to the various DARS programs, services, and supports, see below:
Aging Services and Local Resources for Older Adults
Employment Help
Disability Services
CCC+ Waiver | Commonwealth Coordinated Care Plus
CCC+ Waiver | Commonwealth Coordinated Care Plus
DD Waiver
DD Waiver
Q & A
Q & A
Q: What is the DD Waiver?
Q: What is the DD Waiver?
A: In simple terms, the DD Waiver helps pay for long-term supports and services for people with developmental disabilities so they can live in the community instead of an institution.
Think of it as: Help that comes to your child — not your child having to go somewhere else to get help.
---
Q: Who are DD Waivers for?
Q: Who are DD Waivers for?
A: DD Waivers are for children and adults with developmental disabilities, including (but not limited to):
Autism
Intellectual disability
Other developmental disabilities that began before age 22
These waivers support people who need ongoing help, not just short-term services.
---
Q: What kinds of supports can a DD Waiver provide?
Q: What kinds of supports can a DD Waiver provide?
A: Depending on the waiver and your child’s needs, supports may include:
In-home support staff
Personal care or help with daily living
Respite care for caregivers
Behavioral supports
Case management
Supported employment services
Assistive technology
Transportation (in some cases)
Supports are individualized—not everyone receives every service.
---
Q: What are the different DD Waivers?
Q: What are the different DD Waivers?
A: There are three DD Waivers, based on support needs:
Family & Individual Supports (FIS) Waiver
For people who need some support, but not full-time careCommunity Living (CL) Waiver
For people with moderate to high support needsBuilding Independence (BI) Waiver
For adults who can live more independently with supports
Your CSB helps determine which waiver is appropriate.
---
Q: How do I start the DD Waiver process?
Q: How do I start the DD Waiver process?
A: You start through your local Community Services Board (CSB).
Steps usually include:
Contacting your CSB and requesting an intake
Completing required assessments
Being screened for waiver eligibility
Being placed on the waiting list (if a slot is not immediately available)
You do not apply directly to the state — the CSB is the entry point.
---
Q: Does my child need a diagnosis to apply?
Q: Does my child need a diagnosis to apply?
A: Yes, a documented developmental disability is typically required for waiver eligibility. That said, you can contact the CSB before all documentation is finalized, and they can help identify what evaluations or records are needed.
---
Q: What is the waiver waiting list?
Q: What is the waiver waiting list?
A: There are more people who qualify than available waiver slots, so most families are placed on a waiting list. Waiting lists are prioritized based on level of need and risk, not just how long someone has waited. Being on the waiting list is still essential—you cannot receive a waiver without being on it.
---
Q: What does “priority” mean on the waiting list?
Q: What does “priority” mean on the waiting list?
A: Priority is based on factors such as:
Safety concerns
Risk of homelessness or institutional placement
Caregiver health or ability to continue care
Behavioral or medical needs=
Priority can change, and families can request updates if circumstances worsen.
---
Q: Can my child get services while waiting for a waiver?
Q: Can my child get services while waiting for a waiver?
A: Sometimes. While waiting, families may still access:
Case management through the CSB
Crisis services
Other Medicaid or community-based supports
EPSDT-covered services (for children under 21)
Waiting does not mean no support at all.
---
Q: How does the DD Waiver work with school services or DARS?
Q: How does the DD Waiver work with school services or DARS?
A: DD Waivers are not educational services.
Schools provide IEP services for education
DD Waivers support life, home, and community needs
DARS focuses on employment and transition to adulthood
Many families use these supports together, not instead of each other.
---
Important things parents should know:
Important things parents should know:
DD Waivers are needs-based, not income-based
The process can be slow and paperwork-heavy
Documentation matters — keep copies
Your CSB is your primary point of contact
Follow-up and advocacy are often necessary
---
Important Note: DD Waivers provide long-term supports for people with developmental disabilities so they can live safely and fully in their communities—but accessing them takes time and persistence.
Important Note: DD Waivers provide long-term supports for people with developmental disabilities so they can live safely and fully in their communities—but accessing them takes time and persistence.
---
Step-by-Step Parent Guide
How to Ask for a DD Waiver
How to Ask for a DD Waiver
Q: How Do I Ask for a DD Waiver?
Q: How Do I Ask for a DD Waiver?
A: Short answer-- You ask for a DD Waiver by contacting your local Community Services Board (CSB) and requesting a waiver screening or intake. You do not apply online and you do not apply directly to the state. The CSB is the entry point.
A: Short answer-- You ask for a DD Waiver by contacting your local Community Services Board (CSB) and requesting a waiver screening or intake. You do not apply online and you do not apply directly to the state. The CSB is the entry point.
Step 1: Contact your local CSB
Step 1: Contact your local CSB
Call or email your CSB and ask for intake.
You can say: “I am requesting an intake and screening for DD Waiver services for my child/myself.”
If you’re unsure what language to use, that sentence alone is enough.
Step 2: Be clear about why you’re asking
Step 2: Be clear about why you’re asking
You do not need to prove everything in the first call, but you should briefly explain the need.
You can say:
“My child has a developmental disability and needs ongoing support.”
“I’m concerned about long-term safety and support needs.”
“We are struggling to meet daily care needs without additional help.”
This helps the CSB route you correctly.
Step 3: Complete the intake and assessments
Step 3: Complete the intake and assessments
The CSB will schedule:
An intake appointment
One or more assessments to determine eligibility and level of need
This may include:
Reviewing diagnoses and evaluations
Asking about daily functioning and safety
Discussing caregiver capacity and stress
Identifying risk factors
Be honest and thorough. This is not the time to downplay challenges.
Step 4: Submit required documentation
Step 4: Submit required documentation
You may be asked for:
Diagnostic evaluations (autism, intellectual disability, etc.)
Medical or psychological records
School records or IEPs
Therapy reports
Statements about daily care needs
If you don’t have everything yet, ask: “What documentation is required, and can we proceed while we gather it?”
Step 5: Ask about the waiting list and priority status
Step 5: Ask about the waiting list and priority status
Once eligibility is determined, ask:
“What is our waiver priority level?”
“What factors affect priority placement?”
“How do we update priority if circumstances change?”
Make sure you understand where you stand.
Step 6: Get everything in writing
Step 6: Get everything in writing
Ask for:
Written confirmation of eligibility
Written confirmation of waiting list placement
Contact information for your CSB representative
Instructions for updating information or reporting changes
Keep copies of everything.
A Simple Script Parents Can Use
A Simple Script Parents Can Use
“My child has a developmental disability and will need ongoing support.
I am requesting an intake and screening for DD Waiver services through
the CSB. Please let me know what documentation you need and the next steps.”
Common Parent Questions
Common Parent Questions
Do I need a diagnosis before calling?
Usually yes for eligibility, but no to start the conversation.Is there an age requirement?
No — children and adults can apply.What if we’re denied or placed at low priority?
You can ask for:
The reason in writing
What documentation would strengthen eligibility or priority
How to request a reassessment if needs increase
Can I apply more than once?
No. You don’t re-apply, but you update information as circumstances change.
Important Tips for Parents
Important Tips for Parents
Don’t minimize struggles during intake
Safety concerns matter — say them clearly
Caregiver health and burnout matter
Changes in circumstances should be reported
Follow up regularly (politely but persistently)
Important Note: To ask for a DD Waiver, contact your CSB and request an intake and waiver screening. Be clear about ongoing needs, provide documentation, and stay engaged throughout the process.
Important Note: To ask for a DD Waiver, contact your CSB and request an intake and waiver screening. Be clear about ongoing needs, provide documentation, and stay engaged throughout the process.
EDSDT | Early and Periodic Screening, Diagnostic, and Treatment
EDSDT | Early and Periodic Screening, Diagnostic, and Treatment
Q: What is EPSDT?
Q: What is EPSDT?
A: In simple terms, EPSDT makes sure children with Medicaid get the medical, developmental, and behavioral care they need—early and completely. It covers screenings, evaluations, and treatments needed to identify and address health or developmental concerns, even if a service isn’t typically covered for adults.
---
Q: Who is EPSDT for?
Q: Who is EPSDT for?
A: EPSDT is for all children and youth under age 21 who have Medicaid. It applies whether concerns are medical, developmental, behavioral, emotional, or mental health–related.
---
Q: What does “screening” mean?
Q: What does “screening” mean?
A: Screening means checking regularly to see how your child is developing and functioning, even if no one has raised concerns yet. This can include:
Developmental screenings
Behavioral and mental health screenings
Vision, hearing, and dental screenings
Routine well-child checks
---
Q: What does “diagnostic” mean?
Q: What does “diagnostic” mean?
A: Diagnostic services help figure out why something is going on if a screening shows concerns. This can include:
Developmental evaluations
Autism or ADHD evaluations
Psychological or psychiatric assessments
Medical testing ordered by a provider
---
Q: What does “treatment” mean?
Q: What does “treatment” mean?
A: Treatment means getting the services or supports your child needs to address the concern, not just identifying it. Under EPSDT, Medicaid must cover any medically necessary treatment to correct or improve a condition—even if the service isn’t normally covered for adults.
Q: What kinds of services can EPSDT cover?
Q: What kinds of services can EPSDT cover?
A: EPSDT can cover a wide range of services, including:
Speech, occupational, and physical therapy
Behavioral health services
Mental health counseling
Medical specialists and medications
In-home or community-based supports (when medically necessary)
---
Q: Does EPSDT only apply if my child has a diagnosis?
Q: Does EPSDT only apply if my child has a diagnosis?
A: No. EPSDT applies even if your child does not yet have a diagnosis. If there is a concern that something may affect your child’s health or development, EPSDT requires Medicaid to screen, evaluate, and treat as needed.
---
Q: How is EPSDT different from school services or an IEP?
Q: How is EPSDT different from school services or an IEP?
A: EPSDT is medical and Medicaid-based, not educational.
Schools focus on access to education
EPSDT focuses on health, development, and medical necessity
Your child can receive both at the same time—and one does not replace the other.
---
Q: What if Medicaid says a service “isn’t covered”?
Q: What if Medicaid says a service “isn’t covered”?
A: Under EPSDT, coverage rules for adults do not apply to children. If a service is medically necessary to improve or prevent worsening of a condition, Medicaid MUST cover it for children under 21.
---
Q: How do I use EPSDT as a parent?
Q: How do I use EPSDT as a parent?
A: You can:
Ask your child’s provider for screenings or evaluations
Request medically necessary services
Appeal denials using EPSDT protections
Use EPSDT to push back when care is delayed or denied
---
Important Note: EPSDT is your child’s Medicaid safety net. If your child needs care to grow, develop, or function—and they have Medicaid—EPSDT says that care should be provided.
Important Note: EPSDT is your child’s Medicaid safety net. If your child needs care to grow, develop, or function—and they have Medicaid—EPSDT says that care should be provided.
---
Q: So how do I actually use EPSDT to get services for my child?
A: Think of EPSDT like a set of Medicaid rules that says: if your child (under 21) needs a service for their health or development, Medicaid must cover it when it’s medically necessary.
You don’t “apply” for EPSDT as a separate program. If your child has Medicaid and is under 21, EPSDT is already part of their coverage. The key is learning how to request services the right way.
---
Step-by-Step “Parent Roadmap”
Step 1: Confirm your child has Medicaid (and is under 21)
Step 1: Confirm your child has Medicaid (and is under 21)
If yes → EPSDT applies automatically.
If you have a Medicaid MCO (managed care plan), EPSDT still applies—requests just go through the plan.
Step 2: Start with a “concern” (you DO NOT need a diagnosis)
Step 2: Start with a “concern” (you DO NOT need a diagnosis)
EPSDT can start from:
A parent concern (“My child isn’t talking,” “meltdowns are daily,” “can’t tolerate clothing,” “sleep is unsafe,” etc.)
A school concern
A doctor noticing delays
A therapist recommendation
Diagnosis helps, but it’s not required to start the process.
Step 3: Ask for a screening or evaluation first (the “prove what’s needed” step)
Step 3: Ask for a screening or evaluation first (the “prove what’s needed” step)
In simple terms: screen → evaluate → prescribe treatment.
You can say to your child’s pediatrician (or primary provider):
“I’m concerned about my child’s development/behavior. I want a full evaluation and referrals.”
“Can you document these concerns and refer us for (speech/OT/behavioral health/dev pediatrics)?”
“Can you write an order/referral for an assessment?”
If you already have a provider (speech/OT/BCBA/psych), ask them for:
A written evaluation
A treatment plan with frequency (example: “Speech 2x/week”)
A “letter of medical necessity” if needed
Step 4: Get a provider to write the “medical necessity” request
Step 4: Get a provider to write the “medical necessity” request
This is the magic phrase in Medicaid world: “Medically necessary” = needed for your child to function, improve, or prevent things from getting worse.
Usually Medicaid needs:
An evaluation/assessment
A treatment plan (what service, how often, how long)
A doctor’s order/referral (sometimes)
Progress notes (sometimes)
Step 5: Submit it to Medicaid / the MCO (and keep copies)
Step 5: Submit it to Medicaid / the MCO (and keep copies)
How you submit depends on your child’s plan, but generally it goes one of these ways:
The provider submits the prior authorization request (common)
You submit supporting documents to the plan’s care coordinator
The doctor’s office submits referrals and paperwork
For certain services, you may need to contact the plan and request a care manager
Parent tip:
Keep a folder with:
Evaluations
Doctor orders
Denial letters
Call logs (date/time/who/what they said)
Anything the school has written that supports the need
Step 6: If it’s approved, confirm the “how” (who provides it and when it starts)
Step 6: If it’s approved, confirm the “how” (who provides it and when it starts)
Approval doesn’t always equal services starting automatically. Ask:
“Who is the provider network option for this?”
“Do you assign a care coordinator?”
“What is the start date?”
“Is transportation covered if needed?”
“How often is it authorized and when does it renew?”
Step 7: If it’s denied or delayed—appeal (this is where EPSDT matters most)
Step 7: If it’s denied or delayed—appeal (this is where EPSDT matters most)
If Medicaid denies something, don’t stop at “no.” Say:
“Please send the denial in writing with the reason and appeal rights.”
“I’m requesting an appeal and a reconsideration under EPSDT for a child under 21.”
“What documentation do you need to approve this under EPSDT medical necessity?”
Common denial reasons and what they usually mean in plain English:
“Not medically necessary” → they want stronger documentation or updated evaluation
“Not covered” → EPSDT may override this for children
“Not in network” → request a single-case agreement or out-of-network exception
“Too many hours/too frequent” → ask provider to justify frequency and safety/functional need
The easiest “script” a parent can use (simple and powerful):
The easiest “script” a parent can use (simple and powerful):
“My child is under 21 and has Medicaid. I am requesting services under EPSDT
because they are medically necessary to support my child’s development and
functioning. Please tell me exactly what documentation you need, and give me
all denials in writing with appeal rights.”
---
Real-life examples of what parents often get through EPSDT:
Real-life examples of what parents often get through EPSDT:
Parents often use EPSDT to pursue:
Speech therapy, OT, PT
Behavioral health (counseling, psychiatry, intensive in-home supports)
Autism-related services (varies by state/plan, but EPSDT is the backbone)
Specialty evaluations (developmental pediatrics, neuropsych, etc.)
Equipment and supplies (when medically necessary)
In-home supports (depending on eligibility and state programs)
---
Parent reality check: EPSDT is not instant, and it can be paperwork-heavy. BUT it’s one of the strongest protections families have because it’s designed for early intervention and preventing long-term harm.
Parent reality check: EPSDT is not instant, and it can be paperwork-heavy. BUT it’s one of the strongest protections families have because it’s designed for early intervention and preventing long-term harm.
CSB | Community Service Board
CSB | Community Service Board
Q & A
Q & A
Q: What is a Community Services Board (CSB)?
Q: What is a Community Services Board (CSB)?
A: In Virginia, a "Community Services Board (CSB)" is a local public agency that provides mental health, developmental disability, and substance use services to children and adults.
In simple terms: CSBs help people with disabilities and mental health needs access assessments, services, case management, and crisis support—especially when Medicaid or public services are involved.
---
Q: Who can get help from a CSB?
Q: Who can get help from a CSB?
A: CSBs serve children, teens, and adults who may have:
Developmental disabilities (including autism and intellectual disability)
Mental health needs
Behavioral challenges
Co-occurring diagnoses
Services are often available regardless of income, though some services may depend on Medicaid eligibility or ability to pay.
---
Q: What kinds of services do CSBs provide?
Q: What kinds of services do CSBs provide?
A: Services vary by locality, but CSBs commonly provide or coordinate:
Mental health counseling and psychiatry
Developmental disability services
Case management / service coordination
Crisis services (including mobile crisis teams)
Support for accessing Medicaid-funded services
Referrals to community programs and supports
---
Q: What is case management, and why does it matter?
Q: What is case management, and why does it matter?
A: Case management means having someone whose job is to help coordinate services, not just refer you and send you on your way. A case manager may help:
Apply for Medicaid waiver services
Coordinate therapies and supports
Navigate multiple systems at once (medical, behavioral, school, community)
Advocate for services when things stall or fall through
---
Q: How do I get started with my local CSB in Virginia?
Q: How do I get started with my local CSB in Virginia?
A: You usually start by contacting your local CSB directly and requesting an intake or assessment.
You can say:
“I am requesting an intake for my child (or myself)
for developmental disability and/or mental health services.”
After that, steps usually include:
Initial intake appointment
Assessments (developmental, behavioral, or mental health)
Eligibility determination
Assignment of services or a case manager (if eligible)
---
Q: Do I need a diagnosis to contact a CSB?
Q: Do I need a diagnosis to contact a CSB?
A: No. You can contact a CSB based on concerns alone.
A diagnosis may be required for certain services later, but it is not required to request an intake.
---
Q: How does the CSB connect to Medicaid and waivers?
Q: How does the CSB connect to Medicaid and waivers?
A: In Virginia, CSBs often play a key role in:
Screening for Medicaid waiver eligibility
Supporting applications for waiver services
Coordinating services once waiver slots are available
Providing interim supports while families wait
CSBs do not control waitlists, but they are often the gateway into the system.
---
Q: What if my local CSB says they can’t help?
Q: What if my local CSB says they can’t help?
A: This happens—and it doesn’t always mean no help exists.
Parents can:
Ask what "specific eligibility criteria" applies
Request written explanations
Ask about interim or alternative services
Ask for referrals to other programs
Follow up in writing if services are delayed or denied
---
Important things for parents to know:
Important things for parents to know:
CSB services vary widely by county and city
Waitlists are common, especially for developmental disability services
Persistence and documentation matter
CSBs coordinate services—but may not provide everything directly
---
Important Note: In Virginia, the CSB is often the front door to public mental health and developmental disability services. They can help assess needs, connect families to supports, and coordinate care—but families may need to advocate to keep things moving.
Important Note: In Virginia, the CSB is often the front door to public mental health and developmental disability services. They can help assess needs, connect families to supports, and coordinate care—but families may need to advocate to keep things moving.
Step-by-Step for Parents:
How to Find Your CSB
Step 1: Know your city or county of residence
Step 1: Know your city or county of residence
Your CSB is determined by:
The city or county where you (or your child) live
Not where the school is
Not where the doctor is
Not where services might be located
If you’re unsure, use the address where your child officially resides.
Step 2: Use the Virginia CSB Directory
Step 2: Use the Virginia CSB Directory
Go to the Virginia Association of Community Services Boards (VACSB) CSB Directory, or try using this link to simplify the process.
You can:
Search by city or county
Or scroll through the list and find your locality
Once you find your city/county, it will list:
The name of your CSB
Contact information
Sometimes intake or crisis numbers
(Tip: Many CSBs serve multiple counties or cities, so the name may not exactly match your town.)
Step 3: Call and ask for “Intake”
Step 3: Call and ask for “Intake”
When you contact the CSB, you do not need special language or a diagnosis.
You can simply say:
“I live in [city/county], and I’m calling to request an intake for services for my child/myself.”
If you’re not sure you’ve reached the right place, you can ask:
“Can you confirm that this is the CSB for my address?”
They will either:
Confirm you’re in the right place, or
Direct you to the correct CSB (this happens a lot — it’s okay)
Step 4: If you’re told “we don’t serve your area”
Step 4: If you’re told “we don’t serve your area”
This does not mean you’re out of options. Ask:
“Which CSB does serve my address?”
“Can you give me their contact information?”
CSBs know their boundaries and can point you in the right direction.
---
Important Things Parents Should Know:
Important Things Parents Should Know:
CSBs are local, not statewide — services and processes vary
You usually must work with your designated CSB
Waitlists and eligibility rules vary by area
You can contact the CSB even if you don’t have a diagnosis yet
---
Side Note: If you’re outside Virginia, look for your state or county’s public mental health or developmental disability agency—the role is often similar, even if the name is different.
---
To find your local CSB and have a simple Family Contact & Appointment Sheet
with your local CSB contact, click here.
Page updated
Google Sites
Report abuse