6 Autism Support Groups for Parents in Chicago

Parenting a young child with autism can be both rewarding and challenging. As you navigate diagnosis, services, and daily life, you may be curious about autism support groups for parents in Chicago. These groups can offer information, a sense of community, or simply a chance to connect with others who share similar experiences. At the same time, support groups aren’t for everyone. You may not feel comfortable identifying with a broader autism community, or you may simply not have time, especially when work, caregiving, and family leave you little room for yourself. Both perspectives are valid. The resources below are provided so you are aware of some of the groups that currently exist in the Chicago area.

Autism Parent Support Groups in Chicago

We’re happy to share six organizations that host autism-related support groups for parents and caregivers in or around Chicago:

1. Chicago Autism Network This nonprofit offers free virtual parent workshops each month on a wide range of autism-related topics.
   • Website: https://www.chicagoautismnetwork.org/
2. The Answer, Inc. Provides co-ed and men’s support groups for parents and caregivers. Meetings often include educational presentations followed by discussion time.
   • Website: https://theanswerinc.org/  
   • Phone Number: (708) 296-5651
3. Ascension Autism Spectrum and Developmental Disorders Resource Center Offers groups where parents and caregivers can meet, share experiences, and discuss resources.
4. Global and Regional Autism Spectrum Partnership (GRASP) A national nonprofit with virtual support group options, including a program specifically for parents.
   • Website: https://grasp.org/
5. Association for Autism and Neurodiversity (AANE) Provides online, facilitated peer groups where you can connect with other parents and caregivers of autistic individuals.
   • Website: https://aane.org/ 
   • Phone Number: (617) 393-3824
6. Autism Support Group of the South Suburbs A monthly, parent-led group that meets at the Kids Can Do Children’s Therapy Center in Mokena, Illinois.
   • Website: https://www.illinoislifespan.org/county-resource/autism-support-group-of-the-south-suburbs/
   • Phone Number: (708) 533-4594

Things to Keep in Mind

If you are considering joining an autism support group in Chicago, here are a few things to think about:

• Time and capacity: Caregiving leaves little free time, and you may not be able to add meetings to your schedule. 
• Privacy: Support groups usually set confidentiality guidelines, but it’s best to limit sharing personal details such as your address, your child’s school, or last names. 
• Different experiences: Every family’s journey with autism is unique. What works for others may not be right for you, and that’s perfectly okay.

Support groups are not a replacement for professional therapy or medical care. If you are struggling with your own mental health, it may be helpful to connect with a licensed therapist.

Supporting Your Family at Stride

At Stride Autism Centers, our focus is on providing Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy for preschool-aged children with autism (ages 2–6). Our full-day, center-based programs help children build communication, social, and school readiness skills in a structured, supportive environment. While we are not affiliated with the groups listed above, we know that some families find them useful while others prefer different kinds of support. What matters most is finding what works for you and your child. We’re always looking to keep this list as helpful as possible. If you find other autism support groups in Chicago that you think are worthwhile, please share them with us so we can continue updating our resources for families. If you would like to learn more about Stride’s ABA programs, learn about our program or click here to get started today.