My son is level 3 and 58 years old. I've had a caseworker for decades. Not the same one and in two different states. For the most part they have all been very helpful and I'm so thankful that there has been someone to help get him into different programs through the many years.

Some insurances offer a caseworker if you have a kid diagnosed with autism. I had 1 for a year with cigna. Blue criss blue shield also does. She was nice and helpful in some ways. I am not sure if she did much more than I could do myself. I think it's probably great if you get a good one. I hear a lot about frequent changes and infrequent contact. I kind of prefer to have my hands in things myself because the ocd part of me wants to be 100% it is getting done. Idk here in Texas there are mostly waiting lists to navigate. I think maybe we would automatically get 1 if we ever got through the over a decade waiting list for a medicaid waiver......

It is very important to have a case worker for your child because of their knowledge of all the resources available to your child and to you as a parent. I don't know what state you are in so it's hard to say how to go about getting one.  In California, once my son was diagnosed by the regional service system, he was assigned a case worker.  Most states have an aging and disability resource center.  You would contact them to find out about getting a case worker for your child.

Thank you BrianBrooks, as you are always full of valuable information.

To get a case worker for an autistic child in Michigan, contact Michigan Alliance for Families for statewide resources and referrals, or your local Community Mental Health (CMH) agency, as they administer Medicaid/MIChild benefits for autism treatment and supports. You may also want to reach out to a non-profit like Highfields or the Autism Alliance of Michigan for specific case management or support services.
1. Utilize Statewide Resources:
Michigan Alliance for Families (MAF): This is a fantastic starting point for parents of children with disabilities in Michigan. MAF connects families with resources, support, and special education information to help them navigate the system.
2. Contact Your Local Community Mental Health (CMH) Agency:
Medicaid/MIChild Benefit: If your child is enrolled in Medicaid or MIChild, your local CMH agency administers these benefits, which include treatments and supports for children with autism. They can help you access case management services through their network of providers.
3. Connect with an Autism-Focused Non-Profit:
Highfields: This non-profit offers autism case management services in specific counties (currently Jackson and Hillsdale) to children diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) who are between 18 months and 17 years old and have Medicaid or MIChild.
Autism Alliance of Michigan: This organization provides advocacy and resources for families affected by autism and can be a valuable contact for information and support.

https://www.michigan.gov/autism/parent-resources

Parent Resources

https://www.michigan.gov/autism/parent-resources