Disability services in Tennessee are crucial for ensuring that individuals with disabilities have the necessary support to lead fulfilling and independent lives. Tennessee is committed to providing a comprehensive range of services and resources to meet the diverse needs of its residents. These services encompass a variety of areas, including healthcare, education, employment, and accessibility, aiming to enhance the quality of life for individuals with disabilities.
According to the Centers for Disease Control, in 2025 1,792,724 adults in Tennessee have a disability. This is equal to 33% or 1 in 3 adults in Tennessee. These statistics underscore the importance of accessible and effective services to support a significant portion of the population.
In Tennessee, disability services are designed to address the unique challenges faced by individuals with disabilities. These services include medical and therapeutic interventions, educational support for children and adults, job training and placement programs, and initiatives to improve physical and digital accessibility. Additionally, Tennessee offers a range of community-based programs that provide social, recreational, and housing support, fostering a sense of community and inclusion.
The state of Tennessee recognizes the critical role that disability services play in empowering individuals with disabilities to achieve their goals and participate fully in society. Efforts are continuously made to improve and expand these services, ensuring they are inclusive and responsive to the needs of all residents.
Outlined below are various disability agencies and service organizations in Tennessee that work tirelessly to provide essential support and resources. These organizations play a vital role in the state’s efforts to enhance the lives of individuals with disabilities, offering a wide array of programs and services to meet their needs.
Tennessee Disability Employment Services
In Tennessee, several state and non-profit organizations are dedicated to providing employment services for individuals with disabilities. These organizations offer a wide range of resources and support to help individuals find and maintain meaningful employment.
The Employment First Task Force, led by the Tennessee Department of Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities, works collaboratively with various agencies to promote inclusive employment practices and reduce the employment gap for people with disabilities.
Disability Rights Tennessee provides advocacy and legal services to protect the employment rights of individuals with disabilities. They offer support for job accommodations and address employment discrimination issues.
WorkAbleTN is a program under the Tennessee Disability Coalition that offers benefits counseling and employment support to help individuals with disabilities understand their options and make informed decisions about working.
The disABILITY Resource Center in Knoxville provides services, support, and advocacy to help individuals with disabilities achieve their employment goals and live independently. They offer various programs to assist with job placement and skill development.
American Job Centers across Tennessee, managed by the Department of Labor and Workforce Development, provide career counseling, job search assistance, and training opportunities specifically tailored to individuals with disabilities.
These organizations are integral to Tennessee’s efforts to support employment for individuals with disabilities, offering a range of services to empower them in the workforce.
Tennessee Independent Living Services
In Tennessee, there are several Centers for Independent Living (CILs) and disability housing assistance services that play a vital role in supporting individuals with disabilities to live independently and participate fully in their communities.
Empower Tennessee is a Nashville-based CIL that provides a range of services including peer support, independent living skills training, advocacy, and transition services for people with disabilities. They also offer information and referral services to help individuals access necessary resources.
The Tri-State Resource and Advocacy Corporation (TRAC) in Chattanooga offers similar services, focusing on advocacy, independent living skills training, and peer support to help individuals with disabilities achieve greater independence.
The TARP Center for Independent Living serves counties in Northwest Tennessee, offering programs that include advocacy, independent living skills training, transition services, and support for individuals moving from nursing homes to community-based living arrangements.
The Jackson Center for Independent Living in Jackson provides services to individuals in several counties, focusing on skills training, peer support, advocacy, and transition services to enhance independent living.
In addition to these CILs, the Statewide Independent Living Council of Tennessee (SILC) collaborates with various agencies and organizations to promote independent living across the state. SILC supports the development of independent living plans and advocates for policies that benefit individuals with disabilities.
These centers and organizations are integral in providing the necessary support and resources to help individuals with disabilities in Tennessee live independently and thrive in their communities.
Tennessee Rehabilitation Services
In Tennessee, several state and non-profit organizations provide comprehensive disability rehabilitation services aimed at supporting individuals with disabilities to achieve greater independence and employment opportunities.
The Tennessee Vocational Rehabilitation Program is a significant state-operated service that helps individuals with disabilities prepare for, secure, retain, or regain employment. Services are tailored to each individual’s strengths and career goals, and they include comprehensive vocational evaluations, job training, and support services. The program operates through various centers, including the Tennessee Rehabilitation Center in Smyrna and multiple Community Tennessee Rehabilitation Centers.
Disability Rights Tennessee provides advocacy and support services to ensure that individuals with disabilities receive the vocational rehabilitation services they need. Their Client Assistance Program (CAP) offers help with concerns or difficulties related to applying for or receiving vocational rehabilitation services.
The Tennessee Technology Access Program (TTAP) is a statewide program designed to increase access to and acquisition of assistive technology devices and services for individuals with disabilities. TTAP provides evaluations, device demonstrations, and training to help individuals enhance their independence and job performance.
The Tennessee Rehabilitation Center (TRC) in Smyrna is a state-operated comprehensive rehabilitation facility that offers career and technical education, vocational skills training, and independent living skills instruction. TRC-Smyrna helps individuals prepare for competitive integrated employment and greater independence in their communities.
These organizations are crucial in providing the necessary rehabilitation services and support for individuals with disabilities in Tennessee, helping them achieve their employment and independence goals.
Tennessee Assistive Technology Services
In Tennessee, several state and non-profit organizations provide assistive technology services to help individuals with disabilities lead more independent and fulfilling lives.
Spark, formerly known as the East Tennessee Technology Access Center, is a non-profit organization based in Knoxville that offers a wide range of assistive technology services. These include device demonstrations, equipment loans, workplace accommodations, and customized technology solutions. They focus on helping individuals perform functions that might otherwise be difficult, using both low-tech and high-tech devices.
Tennessee Disability Pathfinder, a project of the Vanderbilt Kennedy Center, provides a platform called Tennessee Tech Connect. This resource helps individuals with disabilities find appropriate assistive and enabling technologies to support communication, employment, daily activities, and more. The platform connects users with various agencies across Tennessee that offer these technologies.
The Tennessee Association for Assistive Technology (TAAT) is a professional association dedicated to assistive technology providers in Tennessee. TAAT offers professional development, support services, and an annual conference to keep educators, therapists, and families informed about the latest innovations in assistive technology.
The STAR Center is another key organization that provides assistive technology services across Tennessee. Founded to support individuals with disabilities, the STAR Center offers evaluations, training, and recommendations to help clients overcome barriers through adaptive and rehabilitative devices.
These organizations are integral in providing assistive technology services and support, ensuring that individuals with disabilities in Tennessee can access the tools they need for greater independence and improved quality of life.
Tennessee Disability Financial Assistance Services
The Social Security Administration offers comprehensive information on disability benefits, including how to apply, eligibility requirements, and the types of benefits available. Supplemental Security Income (SSI) is a federal program that provides financial assistance to individuals who are aged, blind, or disabled and have limited income and resources. Use the Social Security Field Office locator to find a location near you or call toll-free: 1-800-772-1213 between 8:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m. local time, Monday through Friday. If you’re deaf or hard of hearing and use TTY equipment, you can call their TTY number at 1-800-325-0778.
In Tennessee, several state and non-profit programs offer financial assistance specifically for individuals with disabilities. Here are some key options:
The Tennessee Disability Determination Services office is responsible for making medical eligibility decisions for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) in Tennessee.
The Tennessee Bureau of Workers’ Compensation handles claims, disputes, and provides resources related to workers’ compensation for employees and employers in the state.
Families First (TANF): This program provides temporary cash assistance, transportation, child care assistance, educational supports, job training, and other support services to needy families with children. The program aims to support economic self-sufficiency by promoting job preparation, work, and marriage.
ABLE TN: The Achieving a Better Life Experience (ABLE) program allows individuals with disabilities to save money in tax-advantaged accounts for disability-related expenses without affecting their eligibility for federal benefits. Qualified expenses can include education, housing, transportation, health, prevention and wellness, employment training and support, assistive technology, and more.
TennCare CHOICES: This program provides long-term services and supports to elderly adults and adults with physical disabilities. Services include home and community-based services, as well as care in nursing facilities. Financial assistance is provided to cover these necessary services and supports to help individuals live as independently as possible.
Community Services Block Grant (CSBG): Administered by the Tennessee Department of Human Services, the CSBG program offers financial assistance for low-income individuals, including those with disabilities, to address the causes and conditions of poverty. This can include help with housing, nutrition, employment, and education.
RHA Health Services: Through the TennCare CHOICES program, RHA Health Services provides home and community-based personal care, attendant care, and respite services for adults with physical disabilities and seniors. These services are aimed at helping individuals maintain their independence and quality of life in the community.
These programs collectively help to provide financial stability and support to individuals with disabilities, ensuring they can access necessary resources and live independently. For more detailed information on each program, you can visit their respective websites.
Tennessee Disability Transportation Services
In Tennessee, several organizations provide disability transportation services to support individuals with disabilities in accessing essential destinations like healthcare, employment, and education.
The Office of Mobility and Accessible Transportation, created under the Tennessee Accessible Transportation and Mobility Act of 2020, aims to expand and improve accessible transportation across the state. They provide resources, expertise, and a strategic plan to enhance mobility options for seniors and individuals with disabilities.
WeGo Access offers a publicly funded paratransit service in Davidson County. This service provides door-to-door transportation for individuals with disabilities who are unable to use the regular fixed-route transit service. They also offer an on-demand service that can be booked with as little as 15 minutes’ notice.
PrimeCare Transport in Nashville provides non-emergency medical transportation services for wheelchair-bound and ambulatory individuals. They cater to various needs, including medical appointments, dialysis, rehabilitation, and leisure activities, ensuring safe and comfortable transport for their clients.
The Tennessee Association of Human Resource Agencies (TAHRA) offers a range of transportation services, including rural public transit, which prioritizes elderly, handicapped, and economically disadvantaged residents with medical needs. They provide deviated, fixed route, and demand-response services across the state.
ENS Transport specializes in wheelchair transportation services in Chattanooga, Knoxville, Nashville, and surrounding areas. They provide reliable and secure transportation for medical and personal appointments, ensuring that wheelchair-bound passengers can travel comfortably and safely.
These services collectively ensure that individuals with disabilities in Tennessee have access to reliable and accessible transportation options.
Tennessee Disability Childcare Services
In Tennessee, several disability child care services are available to support families with children who have disabilities:
Children’s Special Services (CSS) Program: This program provides comprehensive medical care for children with chronic physical disabilities from birth to 21 years of age. CSS offers diagnostic, medical, surgical, dental, and rehabilitation treatment services. It also includes transition planning services for youth aged 14 and older.
Tennessee’s Early Intervention System (TEIS): TEIS provides early intervention services to infants and toddlers with disabilities or developmental delays from birth until the start of the school year following the child’s fourth birthday. Services include developmental therapy, speech therapy, physical therapy, and occupational therapy.
Smart Steps Child Care Assistance Program: This program offers financial assistance for child care to low-income families with children under age 13, including children with disabilities. It aims to help parents maintain employment or attend educational programs by subsidizing child care costs.
Family Voices of Tennessee: A program of the Tennessee Disability Coalition, Family Voices provides emotional and educational support to families of children with special healthcare needs, chronic illnesses, or disabilities. They connect families with resources, offer peer support, and provide advocacy training.
Easterseals Tennessee Camp: This camp provides inclusive recreational activities for children with disabilities. It offers a supportive environment where children can participate in traditional camp activities adapted to meet their needs.
KidCentral TN: This comprehensive resource provides information on various programs and services available to children with disabilities in Tennessee, including child care services, health care, education, and more.
These programs and resources are designed to help families access quality care and support for their children with disabilities, ensuring they receive the necessary services to thrive.
Tennessee Disability Recreational Services
In Tennessee, there are several organizations that provide recreational services for individuals with disabilities, offering a variety of programs designed to promote physical activity, social interaction, and overall well-being.
Tennessee Adaptive Sports offers adaptive sports and recreational opportunities for individuals with disabilities. They provide resources and information on various sports and recreational activities, helping individuals find programs and events that match their interests and abilities.
Metro Parks disABILITIES Programs in Nashville has been offering supervised recreation programs for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities for over 40 years. They provide a wide range of activities at various community centers and recreation facilities, promoting inclusivity and active lifestyles.
Chattanooga Therapeutic Recreation Services offers programs aimed at enhancing the physical, cognitive, and social abilities of individuals with disabilities. Their programs include fitness activities, arts and crafts, outdoor adventures, and social events, all designed to build confidence and improve quality of life.
Thrive Memphis, formerly known as The Exceptional Foundation of West Tennessee, provides social and recreational experiences for individuals with intellectual disabilities. They offer a holistic programming approach in a safe, welcoming environment, including summer camps and ongoing recreational activities.
These organizations collectively contribute to creating inclusive environments where individuals with disabilities can engage in recreational activities, build social connections, and enjoy a higher quality of life.
Tennessee Disability Rights & Legal Services
In Tennessee, several organizations provide legal services specifically for individuals with disabilities, offering advocacy, support, and representation in various legal matters:
Disability Rights Tennessee (DRT) is a nonprofit organization that offers free legal advocacy services to protect the rights of individuals with disabilities in Tennessee. DRT focuses on issues such as abuse and neglect, discrimination in employment, housing, and access to public and private services.
Tennessee Justice Center provides legal assistance to help Tennesseans with disabilities meet their basic needs and advocate for systemic changes. They focus on healthcare access, disability rights, and social services to ensure individuals can live independently and with dignity.
Disability Law & Advocacy Center of Tennessee, part of the Tennessee Alliance for Legal Services, advocates for the rights of individuals with disabilities, ensuring they have equal opportunities and access to necessary resources and services. They provide information and resources to help navigate legal challenges related to disability.
Legal Aid Society of Middle Tennessee and the Cumberlands offers free legal help for low-income individuals, including those with disabilities. They handle cases related to housing, public benefits, healthcare, and family issues, ensuring that individuals with disabilities receive the support and representation they need.
Legal Aid of East Tennessee provides legal assistance to individuals with disabilities in areas such as housing, employment, and public benefits. They offer advocacy and legal representation to ensure the rights of individuals with disabilities are protected.
West Tennessee Legal Services offers legal services to low-income individuals, including those with disabilities. Their services cover a wide range of legal issues, including disability rights, housing, and access to public benefits.
Tennessee Support Groups for People with Disabilities
In Tennessee, there are several support groups available for individuals with disabilities, offering various forms of assistance, advocacy, and community engagement:
disABILITY Resource Center (dRC): Located in Knoxville, the dRC provides services, support, and advocacy to people with disabilities. They aim to empower individuals to live independently and participate actively in their communities. The center offers group trainings, resources, and a supportive environment for peer interaction.
Tennessee Disability Pathfinder: This comprehensive resource provides information and support for individuals with disabilities and their families. It includes a directory of services, community events, and trainings to help connect individuals with the support they need across the state.
The Arc Tennessee: This organization provides a variety of support groups and advocacy services for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. They focus on empowering individuals and their families to actively participate in the community, offering programs like People First Tennessee and the Peer Support Academy.
People First Tennessee: A statewide disability rights organization led by self-advocates, People First focuses on empowering individuals with disabilities to address issues of equality and inclusion. They offer a platform for self-advocates to connect, support each other, and engage in advocacy efforts.
These support groups and organizations play a crucial role in providing the necessary resources and community connections to help individuals with disabilities lead fulfilling lives. For more information, you can visit their respective websites.
Tennessee Disability Housing Assistance
In Tennessee, several programs offer housing assistance specifically for individuals with disabilities, providing resources to improve accessibility, affordability, and overall living conditions:
Tennessee Housing Development Agency (THDA) : THDA provides several programs to support individuals with disabilities, including the Home Modifications and Ramps Program, which helps make homes more accessible by installing ramps, widening doorways, and adding grab bars. They also offer the Emergency Repair Program (ERP) for urgent home repairs and the Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP) to help reduce energy costs for low-income families, including those with disabilities.
TNHousingSearch.org : This resource helps individuals with disabilities find rental housing that meets their specific needs. Users can search for properties based on various accessibility features, ensuring they find suitable and affordable housing.
Housing & Homeless Services : Operated by the Tennessee Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services, this program supports the housing needs of individuals with mental illnesses. They offer initiatives like the Creating Homes Initiative (CHI) and Projects for Assistance in Transition from Homelessness (PATH) to provide stable housing options.
United Cerebral Palsy of Middle Tennessee : This organization administers the Home Modifications and Ramps Program funded by THDA, helping individuals with disabilities make necessary modifications to their homes for improved accessibility and safety.
Disability Rights Tennessee : They provide advocacy and assistance to ensure individuals with disabilities have equal access to housing. They address issues related to housing discrimination and work to secure fair housing rights.
Metropolitan Development and Housing Agency (MDHA) : MDHA administers Housing Choice Voucher programs, including Section 8, to help low-income individuals and families, including those with disabilities, afford safe and decent housing in the private market.
These programs collectively help to address the housing needs of individuals with disabilities in Tennessee, providing essential support and ensuring accessible and affordable housing options.
Tennessee Disability Education Services
In Tennessee, there are several educational services dedicated to supporting students with disabilities. These programs offer a range of resources and assistance to ensure that all students have access to quality education tailored to their needs.
Tennessee Department of Education – Special Education: This department promotes educational services and programs for students with special education needs across Tennessee. They provide systematic planning, implementation, tracking, and accountability to ensure high-quality education for all students with disabilities.
Tennessee Early Intervention System (TEIS): TEIS offers early intervention services for infants and toddlers with disabilities or developmental delays from birth until the start of the school year following their fourth birthday. The program focuses on enhancing development and preparing children for future educational settings.
TNSTEP: TNSTEP (Tennessee’s Special Education Support & Training for Parents) is dedicated to helping families navigate the special education system. They provide workshops, training, and resources to support parents and caregivers in understanding and participating in the development of their child’s Individualized Education Program (IEP).
Tennessee State University – Office of Disability Services: TSU’s Office of Disability Services provides accommodations and support to ensure that students with disabilities have equal access to academic programs and campus activities. They offer various resources, including academic adjustments, assistive technology, and training for faculty and staff.
Tennessee Tech University – Accessible Education Center: The Accessible Education Center at Tennessee Tech University ensures that students with disabilities have equal access to academic and physical environments. They provide academic adjustments, assistive technology, and other resources to support students’ educational pursuits.
These services collectively work to provide comprehensive support for students with disabilities, ensuring they receive the necessary resources and accommodations to succeed academically and beyond.
Tennessee Disability Healthcare Services
In Tennessee, several healthcare services are specifically tailored to support individuals with disabilities. These services provide comprehensive care and assistance to ensure that all health needs are met effectively.
TennCare CHOICES: This program offers long-term services and supports for older adults (age 65 and older) and adults with physical disabilities (age 21 and older). It provides home and community-based services to help individuals live independently and stay involved in their communities. Services include personal care, attendant care, and respite care.
RHA Health Services: RHA provides a broad range of healthcare services for adults with disabilities through the TennCare CHOICES program. Their services include supported and independent living, family-model residential supports, intermediate care facilities, and day and employment supports, all designed to meet the individual needs of people with disabilities.
Tennessee State Health Insurance Assistance Program (TN SHIP): TN SHIP offers free, unbiased counseling and assistance to Medicare-eligible individuals, including those with disabilities. The program helps with understanding Medicare benefits, navigating the healthcare system, and finding the right health insurance plans.
Disability Rights Tennessee: This organization provides advocacy and assistance to ensure that individuals with disabilities have access to necessary healthcare services. They address issues such as healthcare discrimination and accessibility, helping to secure proper medical care and support for their clients.
Tennessee Department of Health – Division of Health Care Facilities: This division ensures the quality and safety of healthcare facilities across the state. They handle complaints and issues related to licensed and certified facilities, ensuring that individuals with disabilities receive appropriate care in compliant healthcare environments.
These programs and services collectively ensure that individuals with disabilities in Tennessee have access to comprehensive healthcare, enabling them to lead healthier and more independent lives.
Tennessee Vocational Training for People with Disabilities
In Tennessee, several vocational training programs are available to support individuals with disabilities in achieving competitive, integrated employment. Here are some key programs:
Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) Program: The VR program offers a range of individualized services designed to help people with disabilities prepare for, secure, retain, or regain employment. Services include career counseling, job training, assistive technology, and support services tailored to each individual’s strengths, abilities, and career goals.
Tennessee Rehabilitation Center (TRC) – Smyrna: TRC-Smyrna provides career and technical education to individuals with disabilities, offering comprehensive vocational evaluation, skills training, and support services to prepare clients for employment and greater independence.
Pre-Employment Transition Services (Pre-ETS): This program targets students with disabilities aged 14-22, providing early work experiences, career exploration, and skills training to facilitate a smooth transition from school to the workforce. Services are offered in collaboration with school systems and community providers across the state.
Workforce Development Program for Individuals with Disabilities: Also known as the Vocational Rehabilitation Program, this initiative offers job counseling, work experiences, training, and education opportunities to help individuals with disabilities maximize their career potential and integrate into their communities.
Project SEARCH: This program provides real-life work experiences combined with training in employability and independent living skills to help youth with significant disabilities make successful transitions from school to productive adult life.
These programs collectively provide essential support and training to help individuals with disabilities in Tennessee achieve meaningful employment and greater independence.
Tennessee Mental Health Services for People with Disabilities
In Tennessee, there are several mental health services specifically designed to support individuals with disabilities. These services offer a range of programs to address mental health needs and promote overall well-being:
Tennessee Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services (TDMHSAS) : This department administers a wide array of mental health services, including crisis services, peer recovery services, and support for individuals with co-occurring disorders. They provide community-based programs, housing support, and crisis intervention to ensure individuals receive comprehensive care.
TN START Assessment and Stabilization Teams (TN START AST) : These teams are specifically designed to support individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities who have complex behavioral or mental health needs. TN START AST offers crisis response, stabilization planning, clinical consultation, and training to prevent and manage behavioral crises effectively.
Mental Health America of the Mid-South : This organization connects individuals with specialized mental health and wellness resources. They offer programs and services to address various mental health conditions and promote recovery and resilience.
National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) Tennessee : NAMI Tennessee provides support, education, and advocacy for individuals with mental illnesses and their families. They offer peer support groups, educational programs, and resources to help individuals manage their mental health conditions.
Tennessee Mental Health Consumers’ Association (TMHCA) : TMHCA offers peer counseling, Wellness Recovery Action Plan (WRAP®), and various training programs. They focus on empowering individuals with mental health conditions to achieve their recovery goals through education and support.
These organizations and programs provide essential mental health services to individuals with disabilities, ensuring they have access to the support they need to lead fulfilling lives.
Tennessee Vision Services for People with Disabilities
In Tennessee, there are several vision services available to support individuals with disabilities. These services provide comprehensive assistance to ensure that people with visual impairments can achieve greater independence and improve their quality of life:
Tennessee Services for the Blind and Visually Impaired (TSBVI): This state agency offers a range of services including vocational rehabilitation, independent living services, and specialized services for children and older adults. TSBVI provides training in orientation and mobility, personal adjustment, and assistive technology to help individuals maximize their potential and live independently.
Blind and Visually Impaired Services: This program under the Tennessee Department of Human Services offers vocational rehabilitation, independent living services, and a Newsline for the Blind. It aims to assist individuals in achieving employment, improving daily living skills, and accessing information through various support services.
STAR Center: Located in Jackson, the STAR Center provides a variety of services including vision rehabilitation, orientation and mobility training, and assistive technology. They work to improve daily living for people with low vision and blindness, offering personalized support and resources.
Clovernook Center for the Blind and Visually Impaired: Based in Memphis, this center offers comprehensive training in orientation, mobility, and independent living. They also provide vocational training, job placement services, and counseling to help individuals with visual impairments become self-sufficient and active participants in their communities.
Meritan: Meritan offers courses on orientation skills, mobility skills, and Braille, as well as training in daily living activities such as cooking, cleaning, and managing money. They work with people of all ages and provide support to help individuals with vision impairments live independently.
These organizations and programs provide essential services and support to individuals with visual impairments, helping them to achieve independence and improve their overall quality of life.
Tennessee Hearing Services for People with Disabilities
In Tennessee, several organizations offer specialized hearing services for individuals with disabilities. These services are designed to support those who are deaf, hard of hearing, or deaf-blind, providing a range of resources from vocational training to interpreting services.
Tennessee Department of Human Services – Deaf, Deaf-Blind, and Hard of Hearing Services: This program offers specialized vocational rehabilitation services, including guidance and counseling, vocational training, post-secondary education, and interpreting services to help individuals enter, retain, or return to competitive employment.
Tennessee Council for the Deaf, Deaf-Blind, and Hard of Hearing: This council advocates for culturally appropriate services and coordinates public awareness efforts. They work with various service providers across the state to ensure individuals receive the necessary support and resources.
Bridges for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing: With locations in Nashville and Memphis, Bridges provides interpreting services, education, outreach, case management, advocacy, and referral services for individuals who are deaf, hard of hearing, or deaf-blind.
Knoxville Center of the Deaf: This center offers interpreting services, job placement and retention services, and American Sign Language (ASL) classes to support individuals in the Knoxville area.
Deaf Connect of the Mid-South: Serving the Memphis area, Deaf Connect offers sign-language interpreting, sign language classes, and advocacy and assistance in various areas including employment and education.
Partnership for Families, Children, and Adults: Located in Chattanooga, this organization provides interpreting services, job placement, retention services, and ASL classes to support the deaf and hard of hearing community.
These organizations collectively offer comprehensive support to individuals with hearing impairments, ensuring they have access to necessary resources and services to live independently and participate fully in their communities.
Tennessee Speech & Language Services for People with Disabilities
In Tennessee, several organizations provide speech and language services tailored for individuals with disabilities. These services ensure that people with communication impairments receive the support they need to enhance their abilities and improve their quality of life.
Tennessee Department of Education – Speech-Language Services: The department offers comprehensive speech-language pathology services within the school system. These services address communication needs for students with speech or language impairments, including articulation, fluency, voice, and language-based literacy skills. They aim to provide these services in the least restrictive environment to support academic and social success.
Vanderbilt Bill Wilkerson Center: This center offers a wide range of speech and language services for adults, including evaluations, treatment for cognitive and communication disorders, stuttering therapy, and swallowing assessments. They provide specialized care for conditions resulting from neurological issues, brain injuries, strokes, and other illnesses.
SRVS – Speech-Language Therapy: SRVS offers speech-language therapy services that include screenings, evaluations, and personalized treatment plans for individuals facing communication challenges. Their services are designed to help both children and adults improve their speech, language, and communication skills.
Tennessee Early Intervention System (TEIS): TEIS provides early intervention services for infants and toddlers with disabilities, including speech and language therapy. These services help young children develop critical communication skills from an early age, supporting their overall development and readiness for school.
These organizations collectively offer crucial support for individuals with speech and language impairments, ensuring they have access to the necessary resources to improve their communication skills and enhance their overall quality of life.
Tennessee Autism Services
In Tennessee, various organizations provide specialized autism services aimed at supporting individuals with autism and their families. Here are some key resources available in the state:
Autism Tennessee: This organization offers support, education, and advocacy for the autism community in Middle Tennessee. Services include a HELPline for immediate assistance, educational workshops, and community outreach programs to support individuals with autism and their families.
Autism Speaks: Provides a wide range of resources including information on local services, support for newly diagnosed individuals, and access to the Autism Response Team, which helps families navigate available resources and services. They also offer Caregiver Skills Training (CST) to help caregivers support individuals with autism effectively.
Vanderbilt TRIAD (Treatment and Research Institute for Autism Spectrum Disorders): This program offers a variety of services including diagnostic evaluations, early intervention services, family workshops, and online training sessions. TRIAD works to connect families with community resources and provide evidence-based practices to support individuals with autism.
Breakthrough Corporation: Based in Knoxville, this organization provides therapeutic services such as speech therapy, occupational therapy, behavior therapy, and social skills groups. They also offer community employment services and independent living support for adults with autism.
Autism Society of East Tennessee: This organization provides educational resources, support groups, and advocacy for individuals with autism and their families. They offer a comprehensive resource database, annual conferences, and various social and supportive programs to promote inclusion and empowerment.
These organizations are dedicated to improving the lives of individuals with autism by offering a range of services from early intervention to adult support, ensuring that individuals across Tennessee receive the necessary care and resources.
Tennessee Early Intervention Services
In Tennessee, several early intervention services are available to support infants and young children with developmental delays or disabilities. Here are some key programs:
Tennessee Early Intervention System (TEIS): TEIS is a voluntary program that provides therapy and other services at no cost to families. It supports children from birth to three years old with developmental delays or disabilities, offering services such as speech therapy, physical therapy, and occupational therapy to help prepare children for school.
Vanderbilt TRIAD : In collaboration with TEIS, TRIAD offers training and consultation to families of children currently enrolled in TEIS. They provide telemedicine-based family support services and professional development opportunities for early intervention providers.
Emory Valley Center : This center provides in-home early intervention services for children up to five years old with developmental delays. They work in partnership with TEIS to offer support and developmental assistance in a 14-county region in East Tennessee.
Early Connections Network : This network provides early intervention services aimed at helping children with developmental delays or disabilities reach their full potential. Services include developmental screenings, personalized intervention plans, and family support.
Sumner County Early Intervention Services : This program offers early intervention services through Early Head Start, which includes inclusive options for children with special needs. Services are provided at no cost to parents and aim to support children’s developmental and educational progress.
These programs collectively ensure that children with developmental delays or disabilities in Tennessee receive the necessary early intervention services to support their growth and development.