Connect with others who understand.

  • Learn from expert-reviewed resources
  • Real advice from people who’ve been there
  • People who understand what you’re going through
Sign Up Log In
Powered By
Real members of MyAutismTeam have posted questions and answers that support our community guidelines, and should not be taken as medical advice. Looking for the latest medically reviewed content by doctors and experts? Visit our resource section.

My son is 22 with severe autism/ epilepsy and he had a pretty bad meltdown and cops were called and he was baker acted, I’ve never been thru this and thought maybe someone else has experienced this to maybe shed some light or hope that maybe it can open a door for help, I maybe a hopeful but I’m also skeptical and feel powerless and hopeless, preparing for the worst but hoping and praying for the best

April 5
 · 
Reactions
A MyAutismTeam Member

https://sfa-center.org/

https://danmarinofoundation.org/

https://nexushealthsystems.com/autistic-meltdown/

Here are some centers in FL that might help

In Fort Lauderdale, autism support for meltdowns includes specialized Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy, occupational therapy, and sensory-friendly resources aimed at calming, behavior management, and skill-building. Key providers include Little Rays ABA, Cultivate BHE, and Success on the Spectrum (SOS) in Plantation, offering in-home, clinic, and school-based support.

Local Resources for Meltdown Support (Ft. Lauderdale)
ABA Centers of Florida: Provides evidence-based ABA therapy with lower wait times (approx. 47 days) to help manage challenging behaviors.
Little Rays ABA: Focuses on skill development and behavior management in South Florida.
Cultivate Behavioral Health & Education: Offers in-home, clinic, and in-school ABA therapy aimed at reducing meltdowns.
Success on the Spectrum (SOS): A new Plantation center offering ABA, speech, and occupational therapy for children 18 months–18 years.
Omega Center for Autism: Provides after-school behavior therapy and sensory gym access.
Breakthrough Pediatric Therapy: Offers behavior therapy for autism spectrum disorders.

Immediate Meltdown Management Tips
Reduce Stimulation: Dim lights, reduce noise, or move to a quiet, safe space.
Remain Calm: Avoid reacting with high emotion, as this can escalate the situation.
Use Grounding Tools: Offer comfort items like weighted blankets, noise-canceling headphones, or fidget toys.
Offer Space: Allow time for self-regulation without forcing interaction.
Focus on Safety: Ensure the individual is safe without using restrictive methods.
t
+3
For direct help finding local support groups, resources like Beaming Health can assist.

How To Calm An Autistic Meltdown
How To Calm An Autistic Meltdown
Empower Individuals with Autism - Dan Marino Foundation
Empower Individuals with Autism - Dan Marino Foundation
April 6
A MyAutismTeam Member

I hope it would open doors to more support. Like hopefully they could connect you with some area resources and just provide some time for rest and stabilization. My son is 15 and nonverbal and I worry a lot about adulthood. My thoughts are with you.

April 5
MyAutismTeam

Have other parents experienced their adult child with severe autism being Baker Acted, and can it lead to helpful resources?

This is an incredibly stressful situation, and those feelings of being powerless are completely understandable. While the search results don't specifically address Baker Act experiences, they do Show Full Answer

Have other parents experienced their adult child with severe autism being Baker Acted, and can it lead to helpful resources?

This is an incredibly stressful situation, and those feelings of being powerless are completely understandable. While the search results don't specifically address Baker Act experiences, they do highlight that meltdowns are one of the most discussed challenges among autism parents, and many share feelings of being emotionally broken during crisis situations.

During this difficult time, a few things may help:

Immediate Support
- Reach out to your son's existing healthcare providers and therapy team for guidance on next steps
- Connect with other parents on MyAutismTeam who may have navigated similar crisis situations
- Consider asking the facility about what services or evaluations might be available during this time

Taking Care of Yourself
You can't support your son if you're running on empty. Even small acts of self-care matter right now - whether that's reaching out to someone who understands, taking a few moments to breathe, or accepting help from others.

Looking Forward
While this feels overwhelming, some parents have found that crisis situations, though traumatic, sometimes do open doors to additional services or support that weren't previously available. Document everything and advocate for what your son needs.

You're not alone in feeling this way, and your hope for help isn't misplaced.

April 5

Related Questions

View All
A MyAutismTeam Member asked a question 💭

A MyAutismTeam Member asked a question 💭
Columbia, SC