Special Assistance guide
Sponsored by
We are known for our enthusiasm, infectious spirit, camaraderie, and commitment to serve others! A special part of our mission is to help children and individuals with special needs as we work to further advancement for all within our beautiful city. We work together on a number of different projects each year to benefit our youth and our community, touching thousands of people. https://miamirotary.org
SPECIAL EDUCATION
GORDON SCHOOL
The Tikvah Center at the Gordon School is designed for children Pre-K - 5th grade who are diagnosed with Autism. This program focuses on academic development within an inclusive framework. The Tikvah Center's curriculum is meticulously crafted to cater to the unique needs of each student, fostering growth not only academically but also in social-emotional domains. To learn more contact our admissions director at admissions@gordonschoolmiami.org
MIAMI LEARNING EXPERIENCE SCHOOL
Miami Learning Experience School, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, is a leading educational program in South Florida offering continuous education for individuals with varying developmental exceptionalities. From kindergarten to adulthood, our specialized programs are tailored to support each student’s growth, helping them develop their unique abilities and achieve their full potential.
5651 SW 82nd Avenue Road, Miami, FL 33143 / 305.275.5900 / mle@mleschool.org
MGM ACADEMY
The Student’s Tuition Includes:
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Enrollment in online private school
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A Personalized Learning Path and access to our learning education management system
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Instruction from highly qualified teachers who are subject matter experts and experience in virtual learning
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A rigorous, challenging curriculum and the use of all required course materials
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Socialization through clubs and activities and message board
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Ongoing support through a dedicated relationship
Website: https://mgmacademy.net/enrollment/
BROWARD CHILDREN’S CENTER
This nonprofit center offers a wide range of programs, including licensed home health care, medical daycare, developmental preschools for special needs and typical children, in-home and facility-based respite care, and more. It also offers social services referrals and counseling, education for medically complex children, medical transportation, and physical, occupational, and speech therapy. 200 SE 19 Ave Pompano Beach.
Phone: 954-943-7638 Website:www.bcckids.org
ATLANTIS ACADEMY
Provides students with various learning needs the academic, behavioral, social, and emotional support they need to reach their full potential! We use evidence-based practices in curriculum, instruction, and positive behavior supports to help students succeed. We conduct routine, ongoing assessments to monitor students’ progress and establish the best learning environment for them. Our teachers adjust instruction based on assessment and ongoing progress monitoring to meet the academic, social, emotional, and behavioral needs of each student. Address: 9600 SW 107th Ave. Miami, FL 33176 Phone: (305) 781 - 4676
Website: https://www.atlantisacademy.com
SOUTH FLORIDA AUTISM CHARTER SCHOOL
South Florida Autism Charter School provides education and therapeutic services to individuals diagnosed with autism spectrum disorders (ASD) residing in Miami-Dade/Broward Counties, targeting students with communication deficits and/or behavioral challenges, and who may require training in self-help skills. The methodologies of B.F. Skinner’s Theory of Applied Behavioral Analysis (ABA) and Verbal Behavior (VB) are applied in conjunction with State Standards for students on a modified curriculum in order to provide the most effective individualized educational programs possible.
SFACS Co-located with RR Moton Elementary
18050 Homestead Ave, Miami, FL 33157
Phone: (305) 823-2700 OR 786-573-7020
Website: www.sfacs.org
CRYSTAL ACADEMY
Crystal Academy is a premier therapy center and school for children with autism and other developmental delays. Established by dedicated parents in 2009 and managed by professionals, our comprehensive services encompass ABA, speech and language therapy, occupational therapy, music, and fitness clubs. The meticulously crafted school curriculum plans are customized to each student's needs and employ methods that effectively cater to their unique learning strengths. Each plan is thoughtfully designed to promote growth in language, science, math, art, music, theater, and community-based instruction.
Call for free Informal Placement Evaluations- FES- Unique Abilities and Most Insurance Plans are accepted.
107 Antilla Avenue, Coral Gables, Phone: 305-567-5881
Website: www.crystalacademy.org
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CARPE DIEM
Carpe Diem Academy offers in-home services, telehealth, and remote learning. Honored with the Step Up For Students Excellence Award, they provide education and therapy for children with disabilities. Donations support "Carpe Diem On Wheels," funding vans for accessible therapy and vocational programs. https://www.carpediemacademy.org/.
BROWARD COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOLS
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MIAMI DADE PUBLIC SCHOOLS
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UPLIFT LITERACY
​www. upliftliteracy.org
SUPPORT ORGANIZATIONS
EASTER SEALS
Easter Seals South Florida has been serving families for 79 years. Our mission is to provide exceptional services, education, and outreach so that children with disabilities can live, learn, work and play. We want every child in our Head Start, early education, and special education programs to reach their full potential.
Phone: (305) 325-0470
Email: EastersealsSouthFlorida@sfl.easterseals.com
Address: 1475 NW 14th Avenue, Miami, FL 33125
PARENT TO PARENT
Parent to Parent of Miami is a community parent resource center for families who have children with disabilities that provides disability specific information, peer support, one to one coaching, educational workshops, community resources and advocacy in Miami-Dade County.
We can help parents learn about early intervention, early childhood, education, vocational training, employment, college opportunities, as well educate on the laws that protect the rights of children and adults with disabilities. Services are provided in English and Spanish and free of charge with the majority of the staff and board are comprised of parents of children with disabilities.
We know each child is unique, learns in different ways and has the potential to succeed. For children with disabilities, parents are an integral part of ensuring they receive the assistance needed.
Phone: (305) 271-9797 Email: info@ptopmiami.org
Website: http://www.ptopmiami.org/
AGENCY FOR PERSONS WITH DISABILITIES
The Agency for Persons with Disabilities (APD) works in partnership with organizations to provide services and support for customers with developmental disabilities. A person must live in Florida and have a developmental disability that occurred before the age of 18 to be eligible.
APD serves people with: Cerebral palsy, Down syndrome,Intellectual disabilities, Phelan-McDermid syndrome, Prader-Willi syndrome, Severe forms of autism, Spina bifida
Website: https://apd.myflorida.com/
AMERICAN HEART ASSOCIATION
Our Future is About Improving Yours
For 100 years, the American Heart Association, along with our volunteers, supporters and collaborating organizations, has worked to build longer, healthier lives.
The American Heart Association is committed to advancing health and hope for everyone, everywhere, creating a vision for brighter tomorrows free from heart disease and stroke.
Website: https://www.heart.org
EARLY STEPS
Early Steps provides early intervention services to children ages 0-3 born with a disability or developmental delay. These include Family Support/Training, Health/Nutritional/Vision/Translator Services, Occupational/Physical/Speech/Vision Therapy, Service Coordination, and Third Party Referrals. Evaluation is free, and services are covered by insurance or Part C funds. Once your child is deemed eligible you will receive the Individualized Family Support Plan with authorized services/guidance on what to do next.
Phone: (305) 929-8705
Website: www.benchmarkhs.com
CORTNEY VEGA SPORTS ATHLETIC FOUNDATION
Sickle Cell Disease is an inherited, chronic blood disorder that affects approximately 100,000 Americans.
Sickle Cell Disease exists in many nationalities, including African Americans, and people with ancestors from South America, Saudi, Arabia, India, Turkey, Greece, Italy, the Caribbean, and Central America. In 1983, the federal government designated September as National Sickle Cell Awareness Month. Cortney Vega Sports Athletic Foundation is dedicated to raising awareness of this life-long illness.
BEST BUDDIES
Best Buddies is the world’s largest organization dedicated to ending the social, physical and economic isolation of the 200 million people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). Our programs empower the special abilities of people with IDD by helping them form meaningful friendships with their peers, secure successful jobs, live independently, improve public speaking, self-advocacy and communication skills, and feel valued by society. Interested in being involved in South Florida? Phone: (305) 374-2233
CENTER FOR AUTISM & RELATED DISABILITIES
CARD (Center for Autism & Related Disabilities) is one of seven state-funded, university-based outreach and support centers in Florida dedicated to optimizing the potential of people with autism spectrum disorders, dual sensory impairment, sensory impairments with other disabling conditions, and related disabilities. CARD currently serves over 17,000 families in Miami-Dade, Broward, and Monroe counties.
AGENCY FOR HEALTH CARE ADMINISTRATION
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BROWARD GOLD COAST DOWN SYNDROME ORGANIZATION
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CEREBRAL PALSY GUIDE
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CHILDREN’S MEDICAL SERVICES
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CHILDREN’S SERVICES COUNCIL
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DISABILITY RIGHTS FLORIDA
www.disabilityrightsflorida.org
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MUSCULAR DYSTROPHY ASSOCIATION
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THE ADVOCACY NETWORK ON DISABILITIES
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THE CHILDREN’S TRUST
THERAPY CENTERS
NICKLAUS CHILDREN’S HOSPITAL
Nicklaus Children’s Hospital is South Florida’s only licensed specialty hospital exclusively for children. Nicklaus Children’s offers an array of pediatric specialty consultations, rehabilitation services, diagnostics, and walk-in urgent care services in locations throughout Miami-Dade, Broward, Palm Beach, and Martin counties.
Location: 3100 SW 62 Ave Miami, FL 33155
Phone: 305-666-6511
Website: www.nicklauschildrens.org
DENALI BEHAVIOR CRT
Denali CRT is composed of a unique family of ABA therapy and Mental Health professionals with more than 20 years of experience. We provide the most effective and least restrictive treatment, training, and education to empower our community. Denali CRT recognizes that the increasing diversity among residents in the South Florida region has added cultural, social, and economic benefits to our community.
We are committed to building a city that is equitable and inclusive.
We rely on a foundation of evidence-based practices and are dedicated to providing personalized care and improved quality of life for individuals of all ages.
Phone: 305-602-0268
Website: www.DenaliBehaviorcrt.com
CHILD DEVELOPMENT CENTER
Baptist Health South Miami Hospital’s Child Development Center provides evaluations and therapy services to help children achieve their full capabilities in areas of development. The Center evaluates each infant and child to determine individualized treatment plans. Available evaluations and therapies include occupational and physical therapy, speech/language therapy and oral-motor/feeding therapy.
Website: BaptistHealth.net/CDC
Phone: 786-662-5080
A1A BEHAVIOR HEALTH
A1A’s core team has well over 50 years combined and dedicated proven experience in helping enhance the lives of our patients, families, and all that we service. We have utilized this experience to develop a positive patient care approach in order to achieve the goal of total and complete health. All treatment plans are customized for each individual patient and are based on detailed clinical assessment data, and successful processes. As a patient of A1A, you are part of our family and we remain committed to doing all in our power to achieve our mission of enhancing the quality of life of all patients, families, and all that we serve.
Phone: 305.224.1929
ABC BEHAVIOR DEVELOPMENT
ABC is Accepting New Students! - No waitlist. ABC Behavior Development provides humane & individualized ABA therapeutic services. ABC’s team is composed of exceptional professionals that are highly trained and experienced. We accept most private insurances and will soon be in network with Medicaid.
Phone: (786) 310-7460 , Email:adminabc@abcbehavior.live
METAMORPHOSIS ABA
Metamorphosis ABA Therapy offers home and school-based ABA services for children with autism. It’s easy to get started. Our board-certified behavior analysts focus on daily living, self-care, and communication skills. We accept most insurance plans and offer flexible programs.
Phone 786-837-5966 / Email: info@metamorphosisaba.com
PIVOTAL THERAPY
At Pivotal Therapy, we understand that life can be challenging and sometimes we need a little extra support to overcome our obstacles. Our team of licensed therapists are here to help you navigate through life's ups and downs. We offer ABA services, individual counseling, family therapy, early intervention programs and more.
THERAPEUTIC REBIRTH
At Therapeutic Rebirth Corp, we empower individuals to thrive through personalized ABA services. Our certified analysts provide comprehensive support in homes, schools, and within the community to foster meaningful progress. We uphold excellence as our standard in every aspect of our practice. Join us in making a difference in diverse lives and helping individuals reach their full potential.
Phone: 305-803-6663
ICARE BEHAVIOR & WELLNESS
Empowering Children, Supporting Families: ICare Behavior and Wellness
At iCare Behavior and Wellness, we believe every child is unique. With over 7 years of experience, we specialize in behavior therapy and in-home support for children with special needs, including Autism, ADHD, Down syndrome and MORE! Our compassionate team helps families with daily life activities, ensuring a better future for your child. Visit our welcoming center today and discover the support you deserve. Because every child deserves to thrive!
Address: 7801 NW 37th ST STE LP-201 Miami FL 33195
Phone : 305-468-9899
UNLOCK YOUR CHILD'S FULL POTENTIAL WITH PEDIKIDZ
The period between birth and age three is crucial for a child's development, especially for those with complex medical conditions. At Pedikidz, our specialized multidisciplinary team provides the critical early intervention your child needs to thrive. Our program brings your child into a safe, stimulating, and healthy environment where they will grow and prosper.
Phone: (305) 596-0188!
HEALTH OF MIND
At Health of Mind, Inc., founded in 2006, we specialize in providing ABA therapy for children with developmental disabilities. Originally focused on adults, we now serve families in homes, schools, and communities. With over 100 dedicated clinicians, we use a data-driven, client-centered approach to help your child achieve meaningful progress.
WHISPERING MANES
Whispering Manes Therapeutic Riding Center is a Miami-based non-profit offering therapeutic horseback riding and horsemanship classes for individuals with physical, cognitive, and emotional disabilities. Their equine-assisted programs promote well-being, self-esteem, and healing through safe, supervised activities, empowering participants facing challenges such as Autism, Paralysis, PTSD, and Down Syndrome.
JOE DIMAGGIO CHILDREN’S HOSPITAL
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GIGI’S PLAYHOUSE MIAMI
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EQUINE-ASSISTED THERAPIES OF SOUTH FLORIDA
FAMILY SUPPORT
RECREATIONAL AND INCLUSIVE ACTIVITIES
DISCOVERY COVE
Discovery Cove has partnered with The International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards (IBCCES), a global leader in online training and certification programs, to become designated as a Certified Autism Center (CAC). It is our goal to provide every family with an enjoyable and memorable visit to Discovery Cove, and we are proud to offer specialized services to guests with autism and other special needs.
Website: https://discoverycove.com/
BEST DAY FOUNDATION
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PARKLAND BUDDY SPORTS
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BROWARD COUNTY PUBLIC PARKS
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MIAMI-DADE PUBLIC PARKS
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SPECIAL OLYMPICS
www.specialolympicsflorida.org
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MISSION FISHIN
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PARKLAND BUDDY SPORTS
http://www.parklandbuddysports.com
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AUTISM
AUTISM SPEAKS WEB PAGE
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AUTISM SOCIETY OF AMERICA
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UM-NSU CARD
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DIAGNOSTIC CENTERS
POTENTIALITY SOLUTIONS
Provides diagnostic testing and therapy services to children as young as 18 months, adolescents, and young adults. Services are offered by a highly qualified licensed psychologist with expertise in autism assessment, certified in ADOS-2 administration. We offer neurodiversity-affirming services using a strength-based approach that empowers clients and their families.
​​https://potentialitysolutions.com/
FLORIDA DIAGNOSTIC & LEARNING RESOURCES SYSTEM
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CHILDREN’S DIAGNOSTIC & TREATMENT CENTER
http://www.childrensdiagnostic.com
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NICKLAUS CHILDREN’S HOSPITAL DAN MARINO OUTPATIENT CENTER
http://www.nicklauschildrens.org
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HEALTH INSURANCE
FLORIDA BLUE
Florida Blue, the leading health insurer in Florida, has been providing health solutions to residents of Florida for 80 years. Driven by its mission of helping people and communities achieve better health, the company serves more than five million members and all 67 Florida counties. Headquartered in Jacksonville, Fla., it is an independent licensee of the Blue Cross Blue Shield Association.
LAS MADRINAS DE LOS SEGUROS
We are an Insurance Agency licensed in over 40 states, available every single day 365 days from 7 am to Midnight.
Our area of expertise goes from individual health plans such as Obamacare, Medicare, Life Insurance with Living Benefits, Group Employee Benefits, Indemnities, International & Travel Policies to Property and Casualty.
Phone:877-MADRINAS (877-623-7462)
VISION, SPEECH, AND HEARING
MIAMI LIGHTHOUSE FOR THE BLIND
Miami Lighthouse for the Blind is Florida's largest and oldest nonprofit serving the needs of the blind and visually impaired. Through education, training, research, and vision enhancement, Miami Lighthouse provides hope, confidence, and independence to people of all ages, transforming the lives of 90,000 blind and visually impaired people annually, from babies to seniors and their families. Our programs’ impact is statewide, national, and international.
Phone: (305) 856-2288
NSU AUDIOLOGY CLINIC
www.nova.edu/healthcare/hearingbalance
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STUTTERING FOUNDATION OF AMERICA
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UM AUDIOLOGY/SPEECH/LANGUAGE SERVICES
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CENTER FOR HEARING & COMMUNICATION
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FLORIDA DIVISION OF BLIND SERVICES
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RESOURCES ON AMBLYOPIA FROM THE FLORIDA SOCIETY OF OPHTHALMOLOGY
https://www.mdeye.org/amblyopia
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AMERICAN ASSOCIATION FOR PEDIATRIC OPHTHALMOLOGY & STRABISMUS
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PERFORMING ARTS
AREA STAGE
ASC’s Inclusion Theatre Project (ITP) is a performing arts program for students with developmental disabilities. It inspires participants through multi-modal, multi-sensory classes within the musical theater medium and assists them by building social-emotional intelligence, cognition, motor skills, and confidence. The program currently serves 150+ students across Miami-Dade and works with local schools to provide on-site training as well.
DENTISTRY
AMERICAN PEDIATRIC DENTISTRY
For over 13 years, American Pediatric Dental Group has proudly served South Florida and the Palm Beaches, providing top-tier dental care for children. The health and well-being of your child is our focus, so you can feel confident and at ease when receiving care from us. We meet your child where they are and offer desensitization dental visits to ensure your child is comfortable. We also offer sedation dentistry for children with special needs, severe dental anxiety, or who need to undergo a lengthier procedure. We accept all major insurances including PPO, HMO, and Medicaid. Schedule an appointment today!
Toll Free: (844) 304-KIDS
WEBSITE: https://americanpediatricdental.com/
CREATIVE ORTHODONTIC ASSOCIATES
Creative Orthodontic Associates is committed to delivering exceptional orthodontic care for children and adults. Dr Guia-Lamberti combines advanced technology that goes from traditional braces to aligners, offering personalized treatment options to achieve confident and healthy smiles. Dr Guia-Lamberti and her team are dedicated to provide the best orthodontic solutions with and excellent costumer care.
HAIR SALON SERVICES
SUPERCUTS
At Supercuts we take pride in our ability to accommodate all of our customers’ needs. We have many years of experience working with children with disabilities both at our salons and at Nicklaus Children’sHospital. Our skilled stylists go above and beyond to make the experience comfortable, fun, and enjoyable.
Website: https://www.supercuts.com/
FINANCIAL SUPPORT
ABLE UNITED
ABLE United, Florida’s qualified ABLE program, was designed for Floridians with a variety of disabilities including those diagnosed with Down syndrome, autism, cerebral palsy, cognitive and developmental disabilities, as well as mental health disorders. ABLE accounts are a tax-free savings and investment account that generally do not count as a resource for public benefit programs such as Medicaid and Supplemental Security Income. For more information, visit www.ableunited.com
BEREAVEMENT SUPPORT
CHILDREN’S BEREAVEMENT CENTER
http://www.childbereavement.org
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EAGLES’ HAVEN
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TOMORROW’S RAINBOW
http://www.tomorrowsrainbow.org
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EARLY INTERVENTION
CHILD FIND
​KAPILA FAMILY FOUNDATION STARTING RIGHT PROGRAM AT NSU’S MAILMAN SEGAL CENTER
msc.nova.edu/autism-institute/starting-right.html
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NICKLAUS CHILDREN’S HOSPITAL FETAL CARE CENTER
http://www.nicklauschildrens.org/fetalcare
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http://www.sproutbehavioralservices.com
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EATING DISORDERS
NAMASTE NOURISHED
http://www.namastenourishedllc.com
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RENFREW CENTER
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TOMORROW’S RAINBOW
http://www.tomorrowsrainbow.org
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MENTAL HEALTH
CENTER FOR INDIVIDUAL & FAMILY COUNSELING
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HEALING ARTS INSTITUTE OF SOUTH FLORIDA
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HENDERSON BEHAVIORAL HEALTH
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MENTAL HEALTH ASSOCIATION OF SOUTHEAST FLORIDA
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RESPITE CARE
ARCH NATIONAL RESPITE NETWORK
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DELIVER THE DREAM
http://www.deliverthedream.org
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​​THE KIDZ KORNER
TRANSITIONING TO ADULTHOOD
ACCESS PLUS AT NSU’S MAILMAN SEGAL CENTER
http://www.nova.edu/accessplus
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CENTER FOR INDEPENDENT LIVING
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JOSHUA’S PATH