The impact of an autism diagnosis isn’t limited to one person, and it can affect an entire family. At HMEA’s Autism Resource Central, we’re committed to supporting you on your journey through autism, whether you’re a parent or a sibling.

Virtual Support Groups

Due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, we’re offering a variety of options for families in need of virtual support.

ZOOM Parent Support Group
Our parent support group sessions are held via ZOOM and give parents the opportunity to connect with one another and share their stories. Captioning is available, and tele-language translation is available upon request. Stay tuned for more information. Click here for more information.

Facebook Group
This is a private, invitation-only Facebook group for Parents registered with the Center. Please email Sue Loring at sloring@hmea.org if you are interested in joining.

Parent-to-Parent
Many of the parents we support are interested in speaking with other parents by phone. With your permission, we’d be happy to connect you with another parent who has gone through the same challenges you’re facing.

Sibshops

Sibshops are offered for brothers and sisters who are between the ages of 7-18. The Sibshop model intersperses information and discussion activities with new games, cooking, art activities and special guests.

More information on Sibshops can be found here.

In-Person Parent Support Groups

Once it is safe to do so, we will be offering several in-person support groups where you can network with other parents with children on the spectrum. Our support groups are tailored towards issues your child might be facing. Have concerns about your child dating? Check out our group for teens on the spectrum. Is your child struggling to find employment? Our group for adults might be of interest. Most of our support groups take place at our Worcester location, but we also offer groups in some of the towns we serve, including West Boylston, Milford, Sturbridge, and Leominster.