Rethinking Autism Support in Connecticut: Why Systems — Not People — Need Fixing
At The Supported Living Group (SLG), we believe that meaningful autism support begins with shifting the focus away from trying to "fix" autistic individuals and toward building inclusive, community-based systems that empower them. As providers of cutting-edge ASD Waiver services in Connecticut, we see every day how person-centered supports—delivered with dignity, choice, and respect—create pathways for autistic individuals to lead fulfilling lives.
A Changing Conversation Around Autism
Recent national discussions around autism have brought welcome attention to the topic, but not always in helpful ways. Proposals like a national autism registry—later withdrawn due to public outcry—miss the mark by focusing on labels and control rather than genuine support. Too often, policies are developed without input from those who are most affected: autistic individuals, their families, and community providers.
At SLG, our work is grounded in the lived experiences of our service participants. Through our ASD Waiver program in Connecticut, we provide non-medical supports tailored to the unique needs and strengths of each person we serve.
Understanding Autism as a Spectrum
Autism is not a one-size-fits-all diagnosis. It encompasses a wide range of differences in communication, behavior, learning, and sensory experience. Autistic individuals often experience concurrent health or mental health conditions that further shape their needs and goals. That’s why SLG’s approach is flexible, responsive, and rooted in person-centered planning.
Our ASD Waiver services are designed to support this diversity, offering a range of support from independent living skill development to vocational and social opportunities, along with clinical support services that enhance social-emotional growth.
Building Systems That Work
Connecticut’s ASD Waiver Program provides a vital framework for individuals with autism to receive support in their own homes and communities. However, access to meaningful, high-quality services still varies. At SLG, we’re proud to be among the leading ASD Waiver providers in Connecticut, committed to:
Expanding community-based autism services that promote independence
Creating vocational and social skills opportunities that enhance engagement and skill-building
Offering individualized clinical support services that are trauma-informed and neurodiversity-affirming
Partnering with families to ensure services reflect both the individual's needs and the family’s goals
We don’t believe autism is something that needs to be “fixed.” Instead, we advocate for systems that support inclusion, dignity, and autonomy. This includes adequate funding for the ASD Waiver program, expanded access to non-medical supports, and policies that center the voices of autistic people and their caregivers.
Supporting Families, Empowering Individuals
Families navigating an autism diagnosis deserve more than just clinical jargon or generic advice—they deserve partnerships with providers who truly listen. At SLG, we understand the emotional and logistical complexities that can come with supporting a loved one with autism. That’s why our services emphasize not just individual support but family collaboration and caregiver empowerment.
Through our Connecticut-based ASD Waiver supports, we aim to reduce caregiver stress, increase autonomy for the individual, and provide consistent, compassionate support at every step of the journey.
To truly support the autism community, we must stop asking people to change who they are and start changing the environments and systems around them. Autism support in Connecticut must be rooted in equity, access, and respect. SLG is proud to be a part of that mission.
If you're a family in Connecticut seeking high-quality, compassionate ASD Waiver services, or if you're a professional looking to learn more about our approach, we invite you to connect with us today by calling 860-481-2213.