A person residing within the Eastern Los Angeles Regional Center (ELARC) service area who is 3 years of age or older and believed to have a developmental disability, may be referred to ELARC for intake, by the legally responsible individual. Intake involves the dissemination of information regarding the assessment and eligibility process, as well as review of referral and evaluative information to determine the potential for the existence of a developmental disability and whether assessment will be provided. 

A “developmental disability” is a disability that is attributable to mental retardation, epilepsy, autism or cerebral palsy, or a disabling condition determined to be closely related to mental retardation or to require treatment similar to that required for individuals with mental retardation.  In addition, the developmental disability must occur before the age of 18, continue or be expected to continue indefinitely and constitute a substantial disability.  Conditions that are solely physical in nature, learning disabilities or psychiatric disorders, are not included in the definition of developmental disability.  If it is determined that an assessment is appropriate, an Assessment Clinic appointment will be scheduled to initiate the evaluation and diagnostic process at ELARC.                          

Applicants should contact the Assessment and Special Services Division, Intake and Assessment Unit at (626) 299-4770, (626) 299-4759 or (626) 299-4634, for referral information.   

Associated Links:

 Autism Society of America, Los Angeles

 www.asa-la.org

Department of Developmental Services  

www.dds.ca.gov 

Epilepsy Foundation of Southern California

www.epilepsy-socalif.org 

National Dissemination Center for Children with Disabilities                     

www.nichcy.org 

United Cerebral Palsy, Los Angeles

www.ucpla.org