Values & Approach

Core Values

Human-Centered Care

We see the whole person — not just the diagnosis. Every decision, interaction, and resource is guided by what’s best for the individual and their family, honoring dignity, autonomy, and lived experience.

Neuro-Affirming Practice

We celebrate neurodiversity and honor each person’s communication styles, sensory needs, and strengths. Our approach uplifts autonomy, reduces stigma, and promotes environments where every nervous system is respected.

Collaboration Over Silos

We believe no one should navigate autism alone. CAE connects families and providers so information flows, barriers dissolve, and care becomes a shared effort rather than an isolated one.

Compassion With a Backbone

We lead with empathy while holding firm boundaries that protect families, providers, and our mission. This is kindness paired with clarity — support that is warm, direct, and trusted.

Integrity in Action

We follow through, show up, and do what we say. Our work is grounded in honesty, transparency, and consistent, ethical decision-making — even when no one is watching.

Belonging

We create a space where every family and provider feels seen, valued, and connected. CAE is a community where people don’t just participate — they feel like they’re home.

FAQs

  • We created CAE to offer families and providers a trusted, connected, and values-driven ecosystem so no one has to navigate autism alone.

  • Badge providers complete a vetting call where we review their approach, ask values-based questions, review services offered and confirm alignment with CAE’s core values.

  • No. Only providers with a CAE Badge have completed our vetting process.

  • No. Providers cannot pay to be listed, and CAE does not receive any kickbacks or referral fees.

  • The CAE Badge indicates that a provider has been personally spoken to and vetted by our team and aligns with CAE’s core values.

  • No, members may attend only one event per category each month (one Mash-Up and one Provider-Led Training). Additional events may be offered separately.

  • The directory updates automatically anytime a new provider is added or a listing is revised.

  • CAE is supported through family navigation services, provider memberships, community events, and sponsorship; not through referral fees or paid directory listings.

  • No. CAE provides guidance, resources, and community support, but clinical and medical decisions should always be made with licensed professionals.

  • Most providers can write off their CAE membership as a professional or business expense; please confirm with your tax professional.

  • Memberships may be canceled with a 30-day notice. Event fees are nonrefundable unless otherwise specified.

Disclaimer & Transparency:

At The Collective Autism Experience, transparency is central to how we build our provider directory. We do not receive monetary kickbacks, referral fees, or incentives from any provider, and no one pays to be listed. Only providers with a CAE Badge have been personally spoken to and vetted by our team. To earn this badge, they must align with our core values: Integrity in Action, Human-Centered Care, Collaboration Over Silos, Neuro-Affirming Practice, and Belonging + Community.

We share this openly because your trust matters.

Confidentiality:

We maintain strict confidentiality of all information shared, including personal, educational, and medical records. Documentation and discussions are protected in accordance with applicable law.
If communication with outside providers is requested, a signed Release of Information form will be required.

Waitlists & Provider Availability:

CAE has no control over the availability, scheduling, or waitlists of outside providers, schools, or programs. Inclusion in our directory or recommendations does not guarantee openings, timelines, insurance acceptance, or quality of services. All scheduling, intake processes, and service agreements are solely between the family and the selected provider.