Can't Afford Therapy? California Has Free Options You Don't Know About
Your child needs therapy and the costs feel impossible. California has six major programs that provide free therapy services.
Read Guide →Your Child May Qualify for Free Services in California
Hundreds of thousands of California families receive free therapy, support services, and funding for children with disabilities or developmental delays. Many more qualify but don't know it.
We help you find out what you're eligible for and how to get it.
Where Are You Right Now?
Choose what best describes your situation. We'll point you to the right resources.
My child seems behind other kids
Developmental milestones, speech delays, motor concerns, and when to get a free evaluation.
We just got a diagnosis
What to do first, who to call, and what California offers your family right now.
We can't afford the care our child needs
Free therapy options, government programs, and funding you probably don't know about.
I know programs exist but need help navigating them
Step-by-step guides for IHSS, SDP, waivers, SSI, Medi-Cal, and regional center services.
I'm exhausted and need support
Respite care, support groups, caregiver resources, and help for overwhelmed parents.
I worry about my child's future
Long-term planning, special needs trusts, transition to adulthood, and what happens at 18.
What Most Families Don't Know
$15.8B
California's 2024-25 Department of Developmental Services budget for community-based services. These supports are for families like yours.
FREE
Regional Center intake evaluations are free under the Lanterman Act. No insurance required. No prior diagnosis needed to request an assessment.
450,000+
Californians of all ages currently receive Regional Center services. Many more eligible families have never applied.
21
Regional Centers serve every county in California. Each one is the gateway to services, funding, and the HCBS Waiver.
Figures verified against public California Department of Developmental Services data. We update them whenever DDS publishes new figures.
Most Helpful Guides
All 21 California Regional Centers: Complete Directory
Find your local Regional Center with contact info, service areas, and what to expect when you call. All 21 California centers listed.
Read Guide →Every Benefit Your Disabled Child May Qualify for in California
Discover the complete spectrum of disability benefits and programs available to children in California. From monthly cash assistance to specialized services, learn what your child may qualify for and how to apply.
Read Guide →Just Got a Diagnosis? Here's Your California Family's First 30 Days Checklist
You just received a diagnosis. You might feel overwhelmed, relieved, scared, or all of the above. This 30-day checklist breaks down your next steps into manageable pieces—because every family needs breathing room before action.
Read Guide →Yes, California May Pay You to Care for Your Disabled Child
Many families are surprised to learn that California may actually pay you to care for your disabled child through a program called IHSS. Here's what you need to know.
Read Guide →My Child Isn't Talking: When to Worry and How to Get Free Help in California
Your toddler isn't talking yet, and you're worried. Learn what's normal, when to consider a free evaluation, and how to access California's free Early Start program—no diagnosis needed.
Read Guide →Not Sure Where to Start?
If your child has a developmental delay, disability, or you're simply worried about their development, the first step is always the same: contact your local Regional Center. Evaluations are free. No referral needed. No insurance needed.
Programs That Can Help Your Family
IHSS
In-Home Supportive Services. Get paid to care for your own child at home. Available for children and adults.
Self-Determination Program
Control your own budget and choose your own service providers. More flexibility than traditional services.
Early Start
Free therapy for babies and toddlers (0-3) with developmental delays. No diagnosis needed to qualify.
Medi-Cal
California's Medicaid program covers ABA therapy, speech therapy, occupational therapy, and more.
SSI & SSP
Monthly cash benefits for children with qualifying disabilities. Federal + California state supplement.
HCBS Waivers
Home and community-based services that help keep your child at home instead of in an institution.