HelpLine
What is the HelpLine?
Our HelpLine is a FREE service that provides a caring support system to listen to concerns and help solve problems. It connects people to Autism-related resources and services in the counties of Medina, Portage, Stark, Summit, and Wayne.
You can reach our Support Specialist by phone from 9am-2pm Monday through Friday with after-hour messages returned the next business day. You can also submit your questions or request an appointment with our Support Specialist through the form at the bottom of this page.
Regarding Information & Resources
When contacting other organizations or providers, it is up to the user to verify that the services fit their needs. ASGA cannot guarantee the quality of services offered by a provider. Users are encouraged to exercise their best judgment and gather references from providers when considering the use of their services. ASGA strives to keep records up-to-date, but things change quickly so please let us know if you find that an organization that no longer exists, does not offer services, or has moved.
Autism Society of Greater Akron does not endorse any specific treatments, programs, therapies or professionals providing those therapies. All information is provided FOR INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY. Parents and advocates are responsible for the choice of any treatment, therapy or service provider. The inclusion of any information or organization in this communication does not imply endorsement, and omission does not imply disapproval.
Who We Help
Anyone affected by Autism can access the HelpLine: parents, caregivers, family members, educators, professionals working with individuals with Autism, and adults with Autism.
How We Help
The HelpLine assists callers in finding resolutions to a variety of inquiries, whether they are just learning about an Autism diagnosis or are well into the Autism journey. ASGA strives to empower individuals with Autism and their families to make informed decisions in the planning and delivery of individualized, evidence-based services and support.
Each individual and family has the right to choose the services that best meet their individual needs. Every child is different, and every family is different. While your path may be your own, there is also great support on this journey from families on the same road. You are not alone!
Meet Our Support Specialist
Theresa Maier has a background in Human Resources at Cleveland Clinic and earned her Bachelor of Arts at Baldwin Wallace University. She grew up in Cuyahoga County and enjoys visiting local parks, playgrounds, and beaches with her family.
Theresa currently resides in Copley with her husband and son, who was diagnosed with Autism at 23 months old. She currently volunteers as a Support Parent for P2P USA, Parent Advisor through Akron Children’s Hospital, and Parent Match through Connecting for Kids. In her free time, Theresa enjoys cooking and reading.
Frequently Asked Topics:
- Questions about IEPs, parent/professional communication, and alternative placement options
- Doctors who specialize in treating individuals with ASD
- Behavior questions
- Support groups, both for parents/caregivers and for individuals with ASD
- Transition age support, such as what providers are available, housing options, and job coaching
Confidentiality
All information provided by users of the HelpLine is kept confidential. The only time this confidentiality would be broken is if someone is believed to be in immediate danger to themselves or others and there is a need to contact emergency services.
When users share personal data – name, child’s diagnosis, address, etc. – it is used solely for administration, statistical, and grant reporting purposes. Every effort is made to keep user information safe and it is never sold to a third party.
HelpLine is made possible in part by grants from:
