Washington State offers a variety of services and support for individuals with disabilities, focusing on enhancing their quality of life and ensuring equal opportunities for all. These services are designed to assist individuals in various aspects of life, including education, employment, healthcare, and independent living. According to the Centers for Disease Control, in 2024 1,587,667 adults in Washington have a disability. This is equal to 27% or over 1 in 4 adults in Washington.
The state’s commitment to supporting individuals with disabilities is evident through its comprehensive range of programs and initiatives aimed at fostering inclusion and accessibility. These services are available to people with a wide range of disabilities, including physical, intellectual, developmental, and mental health conditions. The goal is to provide the necessary tools and resources to help individuals with disabilities lead fulfilling and independent lives.
Washington State offers educational programs that cater to the needs of students with disabilities, ensuring they receive the appropriate support and accommodations to succeed academically. Employment services are also available, helping individuals with disabilities find meaningful work and achieve financial independence. These services often include job training, placement assistance, and workplace accommodations.
Healthcare services in Washington are designed to address the specific needs of individuals with disabilities, providing access to medical care, therapies, and assistive technologies. Additionally, there are numerous programs aimed at supporting independent living, such as housing assistance, transportation services, and personal care support.
The state also prioritizes advocacy and legal support, ensuring that the rights of individuals with disabilities are protected and that they have access to the resources they need. Disability agencies and service organizations play a crucial role in delivering these services and advocating for the needs of the disabled community.
Outlined below are various disability agencies and service organizations in Washington that offer a wide range of resources and support for individuals with disabilities. These organizations work tirelessly to ensure that everyone has the opportunity to live a full and inclusive life.
Washington Disability Employment Services
Washington State Department of Social and Health Services (DSHS) provides a variety of employment services for individuals with disabilities, including vocational rehabilitation and job placement assistance.
Division of Vocational Rehabilitation (DVR) offers support to help individuals with disabilities prepare for, find, and retain employment, providing resources such as career counseling and job training.
WorkSource Washington is a statewide partnership of state, local, and nonprofit agencies that offers employment and training services to individuals, including those with disabilities, to help them achieve their career goals.
The Arc of Washington State advocates for and supports individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, offering programs and services that include employment support and job training.
Washington Vocational Services (WVS) provides employment services to individuals with disabilities, including job placement, training, and support to help them succeed in the workplace.
AtWork! is a nonprofit organization that provides customized employment services for people with disabilities, including job coaching, placement, and retention support.
Provail offers employment services to help individuals with disabilities find and retain meaningful employment, providing support such as job training, placement, and workplace accommodations.
Washington Independent Living Services
Center for Independence provides services to help individuals with disabilities live independently, offering resources such as independent living skills training, peer support, and advocacy.
Alliance of People with disAbilities offers a range of services to support independent living, including information and referral, independent living skills training, and peer support.
Disability Empowerment Center focuses on helping individuals with disabilities achieve independent living through services such as advocacy, peer support, and skills training.
SKIL Resource Center provides support for independent living, offering programs and services such as peer counseling, advocacy, and independent living skills training.
The Tenants Union of Washington State advocates for the housing rights of tenants, including those with disabilities, and provides resources and support for finding and maintaining accessible housing.
Seattle Housing Authority offers housing assistance programs that include accessible housing options for individuals with disabilities, ensuring they have safe and affordable places to live.
Housing Options for Students in Transition (HOST) provides housing assistance and support for students with disabilities, ensuring they have stable and accessible housing while pursuing their education.
Washington Rehabilitation Services
Washington State Department of Social and Health Services – Rehabilitation Services offers comprehensive rehabilitation services to help individuals with disabilities achieve their employment and independent living goals.
Goodwill of the Olympics & Rainier Region provides rehabilitation services including job training, placement, and support services to individuals with disabilities to help them gain meaningful employment.
Northwest Center offers a range of rehabilitation services, including vocational training, job placement, and support services for individuals with disabilities.
Easterseals Washington provides rehabilitation services such as physical therapy, occupational therapy, and speech therapy to individuals with disabilities to enhance their independence and quality of life.
Center for Pediatric Therapy offers rehabilitation services for children with disabilities, including physical, occupational, and speech therapy to support their development and independence.
PROVAIL provides rehabilitation services to individuals with disabilities, including assistive technology, occupational therapy, and speech therapy to help them achieve their goals.
Valley Medical Center – Rehabilitation Services offers a comprehensive range of rehabilitation services, including physical therapy, occupational therapy, and speech therapy for individuals with disabilities.
Washington Assistive Technology Services
Washington Assistive Technology Act Program (WATAP) provides access to assistive technology for individuals with disabilities, including device demonstrations, loans, and reutilization programs.
Access Technologies, Inc. offers a variety of assistive technology services, including assessments, training, and equipment loans to help individuals with disabilities improve their independence.
Bridge Disability Ministries provides assistive technology equipment and support to individuals with disabilities, helping them to achieve greater mobility and independence.
The Washington State School for the Blind (WSSB) Assistive Technology Center offers assistive technology resources and training to students with visual impairments to support their educational goals.
Washington Sensory Disabilities Services (WSDS) provides assistive technology services and support for individuals with sensory disabilities, including device loans and training.
Center for Independence – Assistive Technology offers assistive technology assessments, training, and equipment loans to help individuals with disabilities live independently.
Seattle Public Library – Library Equal Access Program (LEAP) provides access to assistive technology and training for individuals with disabilities to ensure equal access to library resources.
Washington 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.
The Washington Office of Disability Determination Services is responsible for making medical determinations for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) claims in Washington state.
The Washington Office of Workers’ Compensation handles claims and provides benefits for workers who are injured or become ill on the job, ensuring they receive appropriate medical care and financial support.
Washington State Department of Social and Health Services (DSHS) offers various financial assistance programs for individuals with disabilities, including Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) and Aged, Blind, or Disabled (ABD) cash assistance.
Washington Access Fund provides financial assistance through low-interest loans and grants for assistive technology and business equipment to individuals with disabilities.
Washington State Department of Veterans Affairs (WDVA) offers financial assistance programs specifically for veterans with disabilities, including pension benefits and assistance with obtaining federal benefits.
Housing Trust Fund provides financial assistance for affordable housing projects, including those that serve individuals with disabilities.
Emergency Food and Shelter Program (EFSP) offers financial assistance for emergency rent, mortgage, and utility payments to prevent homelessness among individuals with disabilities.
Seattle Foundation provides grants and financial support to nonprofit organizations that serve individuals with disabilities, helping to fund various assistance programs.
Washington State Housing Finance Commission offers financial assistance programs for homebuyers with disabilities, including down payment assistance and mortgage credit certificates.
Washington Disability Transportation Services
King County Metro Access Transportation provides door-to-door, shared-ride paratransit service for individuals with disabilities who are unable to use regular public transit services.
Sound Transit – Access Service offers paratransit services for people with disabilities within the Sound Transit service area, providing accessible transportation options.
Paratransit Services operates specialized transportation services for individuals with disabilities in several counties across Washington, including demand-response and scheduled transportation.
Hopelink Transportation offers a range of transportation services for individuals with disabilities, including non-emergency medical transportation and community van programs.
Spokane Transit Authority (STA) Paratransit provides paratransit services to eligible individuals with disabilities, offering door-to-door transportation within the Spokane Transit service area.
Everett Transit Paratransit offers paratransit services for individuals with disabilities in the Everett area, ensuring accessible transportation options.
Community Transit DART (Dial-A-Ride Transportation) provides paratransit services for individuals with disabilities who are unable to use regular bus services in Snohomish County.
BFT Dial-A-Ride offers demand-response transportation services for individuals with disabilities in the Benton and Franklin County areas, providing accessible travel options.
Washington Disability Childcare Services
Child Care Aware of Washington provides resources and referrals for families seeking child care services, including specialized options for children with disabilities.
Seattle Children’s Autism Center offers specialized child care programs and support services for children with autism and other developmental disabilities.
Easterseals Washington – Angle Lake Child Development Center provides inclusive child care services for children with and without disabilities, focusing on individualized care and support.
Boy & Girls Clubs of Washington State offers inclusive child care and after-school programs for children with disabilities, providing a supportive environment for all children.
Kindering Center offers specialized early intervention and inclusive child care services for children with developmental disabilities and delays.
Encompass Northwest provides inclusive child care and early learning services for children with disabilities, ensuring they receive the support they need in a nurturing environment.
Children’s Therapy Center offers specialized child care services and early intervention programs for children with disabilities, focusing on their developmental needs and support.
Childhaven provides therapeutic child care services for children with disabilities, focusing on trauma-informed care and individualized support.
Washington Disability Recreational Services
Outdoors for All Foundation offers adaptive and therapeutic recreation programs for children and adults with disabilities, including activities like cycling, kayaking, and skiing.
Special Olympics Washington provides year-round sports training and athletic competition for individuals with intellectual disabilities, promoting physical fitness and social inclusion.
Seattle Parks and Recreation Specialized Programs offers recreational activities and programs specifically designed for individuals with disabilities, including sports, arts, and social events.
Washington State Parks – Accessible Recreation provides accessible recreational opportunities in state parks, including accessible trails, campsites, and fishing areas.
Northwest Adaptive Sports offers adaptive sports programs for individuals with disabilities, including skiing, snowboarding, and cycling.
Skihawks Racing Team provides opportunities for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities to participate in alpine skiing and racing programs.
Pierce County Parks and Recreation Adaptive Recreation offers a variety of recreational activities for individuals with disabilities, including sports leagues, fitness classes, and social events.
Island Rec – Adaptive Recreation provides inclusive recreational programs for individuals with disabilities, including swimming, bowling, and arts and crafts.
Washington Disability Rights & Legal Services
Disability Rights Washington offers legal advocacy and representation for individuals with disabilities, focusing on protecting their rights and ensuring equal access to services and opportunities.
Northwest Justice Project provides free civil legal assistance to low-income individuals, including those with disabilities, addressing issues such as housing, employment, and public benefits.
Washington LawHelp offers legal information and resources for individuals with disabilities, covering topics such as disability rights, discrimination, and access to services.
Washington State Bar Association – Moderate Means Program connects individuals with disabilities to affordable legal services for civil matters, including family law, housing, and consumer issues.
TeamChild provides legal advocacy for youth with disabilities, focusing on issues such as education, juvenile justice, and access to mental health services.
Seattle Community Law Center offers legal services for individuals with disabilities, particularly in securing Social Security and other public benefits.
Solid Ground – Family Assistance Program provides legal assistance and advocacy for individuals with disabilities, helping them navigate issues related to housing, public benefits, and family law.
Northwest ADA Center offers legal information and technical assistance on the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) to individuals with disabilities, businesses, and government agencies.
Washington Support Groups for People with Disabilities
Brain Injury Alliance of Washington offers support groups for individuals with brain injuries and their families, providing a safe space for sharing experiences and resources.
Autism Society of Washington provides support groups for individuals with autism and their families, offering peer support, resources, and advocacy.
National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) Washington offers support groups for individuals with mental health conditions and their families, promoting recovery and providing emotional support.
Multiple Sclerosis Association of America – Washington Chapter provides support groups for individuals with multiple sclerosis and their families, offering a community for sharing information and coping strategies.
Washington State Fathers Network offers support groups for fathers of children with disabilities, providing emotional support, resources, and advocacy.
Spina Bifida Advocates of Washington State provides support groups for individuals with spina bifida and their families, fostering a supportive community and sharing valuable information.
Northwest Parkinson’s Foundation offers support groups for individuals with Parkinson’s disease and their caregivers, promoting mutual support and sharing of resources.
Parent to Parent (P2P) Washington provides support groups for parents of children with developmental disabilities or special healthcare needs, offering emotional support and practical advice.
Washington Disability Housing Assistance
Washington State Department of Commerce Housing Assistance Unit offers various programs to assist individuals with disabilities in finding and maintaining affordable housing, including rental assistance and supportive housing services.
Housing Resources Bainbridge provides housing assistance for individuals with disabilities, including affordable rental housing and support services to help maintain stable housing.
Tacoma Housing Authority offers housing assistance programs for individuals with disabilities, including accessible housing units and rental assistance programs.
Catholic Community Services of Western Washington provides housing assistance and support services for individuals with disabilities, including emergency housing and long-term affordable housing options.
Mercy Housing Northwest offers affordable and accessible housing options for individuals with disabilities, along with support services to promote independent living.
Compass Housing Alliance provides housing assistance and supportive services for individuals with disabilities, including emergency shelter, transitional housing, and permanent supportive housing.
LIHI – Low Income Housing Institute offers affordable housing options for individuals with disabilities, including supportive housing with on-site services to help residents maintain their housing and improve their quality of life.
Washington Disability Education Services
Washington State Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction (OSPI) Special Education provides resources and support for students with disabilities, including individualized education programs (IEPs) and specialized instructional services.
Washington Sensory Disabilities Services (WSDS) offers educational services for children with sensory disabilities, including vision and hearing support, resources, and training for educators.
Northwest School for Deaf and Hard-of-Hearing Children provides specialized education services for students who are deaf or hard-of-hearing, offering a bilingual learning environment.
Washington State School for the Blind (WSSB) offers educational programs and services for students with visual impairments, including specialized instruction and residential programs.
Special Education Technology Center (SETC) provides assistive technology resources and training for students with disabilities, supporting their educational needs and promoting accessibility.
The Haring Center for Inclusive Education at the University of Washington offers inclusive educational programs and research, focusing on improving education for students with disabilities.
Learning Disabilities Association of Washington (LDAWA) provides support and resources for students with learning disabilities, including tutoring, advocacy, and parent education.
PAVE (Partnerships for Action, Voices for Empowerment) offers support and resources for families of children with disabilities, including educational advocacy, training, and information on special education rights.
Washington Disability Healthcare Services
University of Washington Medical Center – Disability Resources for Students provides healthcare services and support for students with disabilities, ensuring they have access to necessary medical care and accommodations.
Seattle Children’s Hospital – Center for Children with Special Needs offers healthcare services for children with disabilities, including specialized medical care, therapy services, and family support.
Harborview Medical Center – Disability Health Services provides comprehensive healthcare services for individuals with disabilities, including primary care, specialty care, and rehabilitation services.
Swedish Medical Center – Rehabilitation Services offers healthcare and rehabilitation services for individuals with disabilities, including physical therapy, occupational therapy, and speech therapy.
Providence St. Peter Hospital – Disability Services provides healthcare services tailored to the needs of individuals with disabilities, including specialized medical care and support services.
MultiCare Health System – Disability Support Services offers healthcare services for individuals with disabilities, including accessible medical care, therapy services, and assistive technology.
Seattle-King County Public Health – Healthcare for the Homeless Network provides healthcare services for individuals with disabilities experiencing homelessness, offering medical care, mental health services, and substance abuse treatment.
Washington State Department of Health – Children with Special Health Care Needs Program offers healthcare services and support for children with disabilities, ensuring access to necessary medical care and resources.
Washington Vocational Training for People with Disabilities
Division of Vocational Rehabilitation (DVR) provides vocational training and employment services for individuals with disabilities, including job coaching, skills training, and placement assistance.
Goodwill of the Olympics & Rainier Region offers vocational training programs for individuals with disabilities, including job readiness training, skills development, and employment placement services.
Northwest Center provides vocational training and employment services for people with disabilities, including job skills training, career counseling, and on-the-job support.
Washington Vocational Services (WVS) offers customized vocational training programs for individuals with disabilities, focusing on job readiness, skills training, and employment support.
AtWork! provides vocational training and employment services for individuals with disabilities, including job coaching, skills training, and placement support.
Easterseals Washington offers vocational training programs for people with disabilities, including job readiness training, skills development, and employment support services.
PROVAIL provides vocational training and employment services for individuals with disabilities, including job coaching, skills training, and workplace accommodations.
Highline College – Workforce Education Services offers vocational training programs for individuals with disabilities, including career counseling, skills training, and job placement assistance.
Washington Mental Health Services for People with Disabilities
NAMI Washington offers mental health services for individuals with disabilities, including support groups, educational programs, and advocacy for mental health needs.
Washington State Department of Social and Health Services – Mental Health Services provides mental health services for individuals with disabilities, including counseling, crisis intervention, and support services.
Sound Health offers comprehensive mental health services for people with disabilities, including therapy, case management, and psychiatric services.
Compass Health provides mental health services for individuals with disabilities, including outpatient therapy, crisis stabilization, and integrated care.
Valley Cities Behavioral Health Care offers mental health services for people with disabilities, including counseling, psychiatric services, and substance use disorder treatment.
Sea Mar Community Health Centers provides mental health services for individuals with disabilities, including therapy, medication management, and integrated primary care.
Comprehensive Healthcare offers mental health services for people with disabilities, including individual and group therapy, crisis services, and case management.
Frontier Behavioral Health provides mental health services for individuals with disabilities, including counseling, psychiatric care, and crisis intervention.
Washington Vision Services for People with Disabilities
Washington State Department of Services for the Blind (DSB) provides a range of vision services for individuals with disabilities, including vocational rehabilitation, independent living skills training, and assistive technology support.
Seattle Lighthouse for the Blind offers vision services for people with visual impairments, including employment opportunities, skills training, and assistive technology.
Vision Loss Connections provides social and recreational programs, peer support, and resources for individuals with vision loss to help them maintain independence and quality of life.
Northwest Association for Blind Athletes (NWABA) offers sports and recreational programs specifically designed for individuals with visual impairments, promoting physical activity and social engagement.
Lions Low Vision Resource Center provides resources and support for individuals with low vision, including assistive devices, vision rehabilitation services, and peer support groups.
Seattle Public Library – Library Equal Access Program (LEAP) offers accessible reading materials, assistive technology, and specialized programs for individuals with visual impairments.
Washington Talking Book & Braille Library (WTBBL) provides free library services to individuals with visual impairments, including access to audiobooks, braille materials, and large print books.
UW Medicine Eye Institute offers comprehensive vision care services for individuals with disabilities, including low vision rehabilitation, specialized eye care, and access to assistive devices.
Washington Hearing Services for People with Disabilities
Hearing, Speech & Deaf Center (HSDC) provides a variety of hearing services for individuals with disabilities, including audiology services, hearing aids, speech therapy, and support for the Deaf and hard of hearing community.
Washington State Department of Social and Health Services – Office of the Deaf and Hard of Hearing (ODHH) offers services such as hearing aid assistance, telecommunications equipment distribution, and advocacy for individuals who are Deaf or hard of hearing.
Northwest School for Deaf and Hard-of-Hearing Children provides educational and support services for children who are Deaf or hard of hearing, including specialized instruction and resources.
Seattle Children’s Audiology offers comprehensive audiology services for children with hearing impairments, including hearing assessments, hearing aid fittings, and cochlear implant services.
Swedish Medical Center – Audiology Services provides hearing evaluations, hearing aid services, and auditory processing disorder evaluations for individuals with hearing impairments.
University of Washington Speech & Hearing Clinic offers a range of hearing services, including hearing assessments, hearing aid fittings, and auditory rehabilitation for individuals with hearing loss.
Spokane Ear, Nose & Throat Clinic provides audiology services, including hearing evaluations, hearing aid fittings, and balance assessments for individuals with hearing impairments.
Evergreen Speech & Hearing Clinic offers audiology services, including hearing evaluations, hearing aid fittings, and auditory processing evaluations for individuals with hearing disabilities.
Washington Speech & Language Services for People with Disabilities
Seattle Children’s Speech and Language Services offers comprehensive speech and language evaluations and therapy for children with disabilities, including individualized treatment plans.
University of Washington Speech & Hearing Clinic provides speech and language services for individuals with disabilities, including evaluations, therapy, and specialized programs for various communication disorders.
Evergreen Speech & Hearing Clinic offers speech and language therapy for individuals with disabilities, including assessments, individualized therapy plans, and specialized programs for speech and language development.
Children’s Therapy Center provides speech and language services for children with disabilities, including evaluations, therapy, and family support services.
Providence Speech and Hearing Services offers speech and language evaluations and therapy for individuals with disabilities, focusing on improving communication skills and overall quality of life.
Good Samaritan Hospital – Children’s Therapy Unit provides speech and language services for children with disabilities, including comprehensive evaluations and individualized therapy.
Northwest Center Kids – Early Intervention offers speech and language therapy as part of their early intervention services for young children with developmental delays and disabilities.
Valley Medical Center – Children’s Therapy provides speech and language services for children with disabilities, including assessments, therapy, and parent education programs.
Washington Autism Services
Seattle Children’s Autism Center offers comprehensive services for children with autism, including diagnosis, treatment, and support for families.
University of Washington Autism Center provides a range of services for individuals with autism, including diagnostic evaluations, therapy, and research-based interventions.
Northwest Autism Center offers services for individuals with autism and their families, including early intervention, therapy, and community support programs.
Washington Autism Alliance & Advocacy (WAAA) provides advocacy and support services for individuals with autism and their families, including help with accessing healthcare and educational resources.
Autism Society of Washington offers support groups, resources, and advocacy for individuals with autism and their families, promoting awareness and understanding of autism.
Families for Effective Autism Treatment (FEAT) of Washington provides support and resources for families of children with autism, including educational workshops, support groups, and therapy services.
The Arc of King County – Autism Services offers support and advocacy for individuals with autism and their families, including resources for navigating services and community programs.
Maxim Healthcare Services provides in-home autism services, including Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy, to support individuals with autism in developing essential skills.
Washington Early Intervention Services
Washington State Department of Children, Youth, and Families – Early Support for Infants and Toddlers (ESIT) provides early intervention services for children from birth to age three who have developmental delays or disabilities, offering family-centered services and supports.
Northwest Center Kids – Early Intervention offers early intervention services for young children with developmental delays and disabilities, including speech, occupational, and physical therapy.
Kindering Center provides early intervention services for infants and toddlers with developmental delays, offering a range of therapies and family support services.
Children’s Therapy Center offers early intervention services, including physical, occupational, and speech therapy for young children with disabilities, as well as family support programs.
Encompass Northwest – Early Intervention Services provides early intervention services for children with developmental delays, including therapy services, developmental screening, and family support.
Birth to Three Developmental Center offers early intervention services for infants and toddlers with developmental delays and disabilities, including therapy, family education, and support services.
Skagit Preschool and Resource Center (SPARC) provides early intervention services for children with developmental delays, offering therapies, developmental screenings, and family support programs.
Boy & Girls Clubs of Washington State – Early Learning Programs offers early intervention services as part of their early learning programs, providing support and developmental services for young children with disabilities.