Family Navigation

AutismUp’s Family Navigators are parents of children with autism or individuals with autism who understand the unique journey you’re on. They provide free, personalized support and guidance to help you navigate services and resources in the Greater Rochester and surrounding areas.

Complete our brief intake form to help us prepare for your needs. You’ll receive an email with a link to schedule your appointment.

How We Help

Our Support Navigators offer:

• One-on-one support and personalized resource recommendations
• Help navigating services in the community and at the Golisano Autism Center
• Monthly parent or caregiver meetups (virtual and in-person)
• Educational workshops and guest speakers
• Autism trainings for schools, businesses, and community groups
• Bilingual support for Spanish-speaking families
• Specialized support for families in the Rochester City School District
• Community outreach and collaboration opportunities
• Transition advising services

Contact Us:
Phone: (585) 248-9011 ext. 124
Email: navigator@autismup.org

Every family’s journey with autism is unique—but you don’t have to navigate it alone. Participate in a training workshop (popular topics follow) or schedule a one-on-one private autism consultation for personalized support tailored to your specific concerns. Whether you need help prioritizing next steps, developing a plan of action, or understanding proven strategies, our experienced team is here to coach and empower you.

With over 20 years of hands-on experience—both as professionals and as parents—we offer insight that is practical, compassionate, and rooted in real-life understanding. Let’s work together to find solutions that make a difference for your family.

Questions?
Contact us: navigator@autismup.com

Popular LevelUp Trainings include:

• Autism 101: For Newly Diagnosed Families
• Building Your Child’s Circles of Support
• How to Read and Understand Your Child’s IEP
• The Incredible Five Point Scale
• Making Connections
• Making the Most of Your Child’s IEP Goals
• Preparing Your Child for Transition
• Puberty and Hygiene for Individuals with ASD
• Speaker Series: Subject Matter Expert Presentations and Q & A
• Parent Effectiveness Program* (PEP)

Support meetups provide a vital lifeline for individuals with autism and their families, offering connection, guidance, and encouragement. For parents and caregivers, they create a space to share experiences, gain insights, and find reassurance from those on similar journeys. Kids and young adults benefit from peer support, building social skills and confidence in a welcoming environment. Siblings and family members also find understanding and camaraderie. No one should navigate autism alone—support groups at AutismUp foster strength, community, and hope for a brighter future.

The AutismUp Parents Facebook group is a private support group for AutismUp “Family” Members Only. It allows for a safe place to connect with other parents and guardians who are members of AutismUp, from anywhere, 24/7, 365 days a year.

Eligibility

To join the AutismUp Parents Facebook Group, you must be a current AutismUp “Family” Member living in the Greater Rochester or surrounding areas. Membership is limited to parents or legal guardians to ensure focused, community-relevant discussion and moderation. Group participation is subject to the AutismUp Parents Facebook Group Policy. Policy violations may result in removal from the group at AutismUp’s discretion. Please review the usage guidelines below.

If you’re a current AutismUp “Family” Member and not yet in the group, email Kelly Conlon to request access.

If your child is 18 or older, you may also join the “AutismUp Parents 18+” group for discussions related to adulthood.