How It Works

CAE Mission

The Collective Autism Experience (CAE) connects and supports autism families and providers through a central hub for education, community, respite, and resources across the lifespan. Our mission is to build a neuroaffirming network where caregivers and professionals feel empowered, supported, and equipped to thrive. 

Steps:

You’re juggling a lot, and you don’t have time to figure out ten different systems. CAE keeps things simple, supportive, and easy to access — no pressure, no overwhelm.

  1. Start with our free tools

    Begin with whatever feels easiest right now.

    • Provider Directory – “Create Your Own Team” (Free)

    Browse our vetted providers and begin assembling your child’s support team at your own pace. (link here)

    • CAE Public Newsletter (Free)

    Stay up-to-date on providers, events, and resources happening across the autism community.

    • Slack Group (Free)

    Join a supportive parent space to ask questions, connect with others, and feel less alone.

  2. Get ongoing guidance & support

    When you’re ready for more than Google and guesswork, you can plug into deeper support.

    • Subscriber Community ($5/month, first month free)

    • A Substack-style program with parent-focused content, practical tools, emotional support, and real conversations about what families are navigating.

  3. Talk to a professional when you need more help

    If you want someone to sit with your specific situation and give you clear, personalized next steps:

    • Autism Family Navigation (AFN) Concierge – 1:1 Support Call

    A 60-minute session ($180, optional) where you can ask questions, review options, and walk away with a plan.

    • AFN Navigator – 1:1 Retainer Support

    For families who want ongoing partnership and guidance as they build and manage their child’s support team.

  4. Connect through events & community

    Throughout the year, you’ll have opportunities to learn, connect, and refill your cup:

    • Expert-Led Events & School/Resource Nights (Pay per event)

    Hear from providers, schools, and specialists — with space for Q&A and parent discussion.

    • Family Events & Retreats (Pay per event)

    Bi-annual retreats, moms’ nights, and seasonal gatherings every 2–3 months focused on rest, connection, and community. 

Join US

What Families Are Saying About CAE

  • "Attending the mom’s retreat was truly an incredible experience. Connecting with other moms who understand what it’s like to raise kids on the spectrum made me feel less alone and more hopeful than I’ve felt in a long time. The sense of community and understanding was the most meaningful part, and all the activities were such a wonderful bonus. I left feeling refreshed, supported, and deeply grateful for the new friendships I made."

  • "The retreat was such a meaningful experience, it gave me a chance to connect with other women who truly understand the autism mom journey. I left feeling supported, recharged, and less alone! You’re welcome to share!."

  • "I love this group because it has become more than a space to talk — it has become a place to breathe. Here, I am surrounded by women who understand the unique joys, challenges, heartaches, and triumphs of raising children on the autism spectrum. No explanations needed, no judgment given — just understanding, compassion, and connection."

  • "I love this group because it is filled with strength — not the loud kind, but the quiet, steady strength of mothers who show up day after day with love at the center of everything they do. It is a privilege to stand among them."

  • "The retreat was everything I didn’t know I needed. Relaxing, recharging, the ability to connect with moms in the same stage of life was unmatched. Very well organized and lots of wonderful options to customize your own day."

  • " This group is a reminder that we are connected, supported, and understood. And for that, I am deeply grateful. CAE not only offers a warm, welcoming community, but also provides a wealth of knowledge and resources for the autistic community. Thank you for creating a place where authenticity and compassion thrive."