Special Needs Planning with Consolidated Planning Group

40 Episodes
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By: Consolidated Planning Group

Do you have a Loved one with special needs? Tune in for expert advice on future care and planning for all families, including special needs. We are domiciled in Texas and serve all families across the United States. #SpecialNeedsplanning #FamilySupport #Podcast #FuturePlanning #FinancialAdvice”Schedule a FREE Zoom Consult: https://www.consolidatedplanninggroup.com/form-once!Email: [email protected]: 281-690-6006

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Attorney Jennifer Coulter - Medicaid Estate Recovery - How To Avoid The Medicaid Trap!
Attorney Jennifer Coulter - Medicaid Estate Recovery - How To Avoid The Medicaid Trap! episode artwork
#201
Today at 9:10 PM

It seemed bogus, but it is real - your state may try to come after your money when your loved one passes away. You won't want to miss this discussion with Special Needs Attorney Jennifer Coulter as she explains how states seek to recoup costs associated with long-term care services provided to Medicaid beneficiaries after their passing. You’ll learn about the Medicaid Estate Recovery Program and its requirements, including how it affects assets that go through probate and those that do not. You will also learn the things you can do to protect your assets! 👋 Thanks for watching! Learn...


Caring for Loved Ones with Disabilities Life Care Managers
Caring for Loved Ones with Disabilities Life Care Managers episode artwork
#200
08/28/2026

As a parent of a child with special needs, you know there are many decisions to be made as it relates to the future of your family member with special needs. Considerations such as managing a complex health care concerns, future care options, and working with client service providers are challenging. Join Kristin Martinelli from Mir Care Consultants as she talks about the role of "Life Care Managers." You will learn how they provide assessments and care plan development for meeting the medical, psychological and social challenges of their clients. 👋 Thanks for watching! Learn more about our services at 🌐 www.co...


Educational Options Beyond High School For Students With Special Needs
Educational Options Beyond High School For Students With Special Needs episode artwork
#199
08/21/2026

Are you looking for an educational experience after high school for your child with special needs? If you are reviewing options related to academics, vocational opportunities, and other transition paths, this webinar is for you! Deciding on the best option for a student who is neurodiverse or has a disability when transitioning out of high school, is challenging. We can help! Join us as we explain how to successfully plan for your future.

👋 Thanks for watching! Learn more about our services at

🌐 www.consolidatedplanninggroup.com

📞 Call us at: 281-690-1177

📧 Email: Contact@cpgc...


Government Benefits 101 - Understanding SSI and Medicaid, SSDI and Medicare
Government Benefits 101 - Understanding SSI and Medicaid, SSDI and Medicare episode artwork
#198
08/18/2026

In this session, we will review SSI & Medicaid, SSDI & Medicare, and Childhood Disability Benefits. We will review when and how to apply, how to be prepared for your appointment, and how to maintain eligibility going forward. You will learn how to maximize benefits for your family. Many of our children with disabilities do not qualify for SSI & Medicaid as minors. The landscape changes when they turn 18. Whether you are already getting benefits and aren't sure if your benefits are maximized or you need guidance on how to get started, this session is for you. Join us as we explain...


Building a Future Without Limits: My Possibilities and Our Mission
Building a Future Without Limits: My Possibilities and Our Mission episode artwork
#197
04/14/2026

Join us for an engaging and informative presentation about My Possibilities, a pioneering organization dedicated to providing continuing education, vocational training, and life enrichment programs for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD).

In this session, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of our mission, the innovative programs we offer, and the impact we’re making in the lives of our HIPsters (Hugely Important People). We’ll explore how My Possibilities empowers individuals to achieve greater independence, develop meaningful skills, and participate fully in their communities.

Whether you’re a community member, potential partner, or simply c...


Family Opportunity Mortgage - How It Works, Who Qualifies, And Why It Matters
Family Opportunity Mortgage - How It Works, Who Qualifies, And Why It Matters episode artwork
#196
04/14/2026

You may not have heard of the Family Opportunity Mortgage that enables you to purchase a home for a disabled child without paying second home or investment property rates.

Join this webinar to hear from JoAnn Cooper from Nationwide Lending Partners and discover a new way to provide for your family's housing needs.


How is Autism Evaluated? What to Expect and When is it Needed with Dr. Lindsay Asawa
How is Autism Evaluated? What to Expect and When is it Needed with Dr. Lindsay Asawa episode artwork
#195
04/14/2026

Many parents wonder if their child's development is on track and what behaviors are typical. Every child is different and it can be tough to know when to be concerned and when to let things go. Join us to learn more about when an Autism evaluation may be helpful for a child, teen, or adult. Dr. Lindsay Asawa from Beautiful Brain Psychological Services will explain the evaluation process and what to expect from an Autism evaluation.


Parenting Burnout: A Battle Plan for Prevention and Rejuvenation
 Parenting Burnout: A Battle Plan for Prevention and Rejuvenation episode artwork
#194
11/19/2025

With Ryan Roberts, CEO of Level-Up Life and a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor


Government Benefits 101 - Understanding SSI and Medicaid, SSDI and Medicare as well as Childhood Disability Benefits
Government Benefits 101 - Understanding SSI and Medicaid, SSDI and Medicare as well as Childhood Disability Benefits episode artwork
#193
11/19/2025

In this session, we will review SSI & Medicaid, SSDI & Medicare, and Childhood Disability Benefits. We will review when and how to apply, how to be prepared for your appointment, and how to maintain eligibility going forward. You will learn how to maximize benefits for your family. Many of our children with disabilities do not qualify for SSI & Medicaid as minors. The landscape changes when they turn 18. Whether you are already getting benefits and aren't sure if your benefits are maximized or you need guidance on how to get started, this session is for you. Join us as we explain...


Children with Special Needs and Divorce: What a Texas Parent Needs to Know
Children with Special Needs and Divorce:  What a Texas Parent Needs to Know episode artwork
#192
09/12/2025

Divorce and child support are legally complex and emotionally challenging issues on their own. When these issues involve children with special needs, parents must be even more mindful to ensure that their children are protected. If these special considerations are not appropriately addressed, it could be disastrous for the children with special needs. Join this webinar as Board Certified Family Law Attorney Mike Day addresses how parents can best protect their children with special needs in the midst of litigating a divorce or child support dispute. In addition, Mary Ann Hughes, Certified Special Needs Divorce Coach and founder of...


The Resistant Pre-Teen And Teen Learner: How To Launch Successfully!
The Resistant Pre-Teen  And Teen Learner:  How To Launch Successfully! episode artwork
#191
09/11/2025

Is your child struggling with academics? Hating school? Unfocused? Unmotivated? Battling homework? Are you concerned about how your highschooler will develop adulting skills and be successful after high school? All students want to learn and be successful! But many times parents are using the wrong strategies to motivate the struggling and resistant student in their home. If you're not getting the results you want, you are using the wrong strategies. Join this webinar to learn from Learning and Behavior Therapist Elizabeth Sharpe, M.Ed., as she shares strategies that will motivate your student and increase hope for you and...


Why Do I Need A Special Education Advocate to Understand The IEP Process And My Rights As A Parent?
Why Do I Need A Special Education Advocate to Understand The IEP Process And My Rights As A Parent? episode artwork
#190
09/10/2025

Join this webinar to hear from Special Education Advocate Tenika Combs, Founder of Got Advocacy. She will help you understand the importance of your rights as a parent, the ARD process, and help you get equipped for this school year. Whatever stage your child is in, whether transitioning into special education for the first time or transitioning out of special education, this talk is for you!


Government Benefits 101 - Understanding SSI and Medicaid, SSDI and Medicare
Government Benefits 101 - Understanding SSI and Medicaid, SSDI and Medicare episode artwork
#189
09/07/2025

In this session, we will review SSI & Medicaid, SSDI & Medicare, and Childhood Disability Benefits. We will review when and how to apply, how to be prepared for your appointment, and how to maintain eligibility going forward. You will learn how to maximize benefits for your family. Many of our children with disabilities do not qualify for SSI & Medicaid as minors. The landscape changes when they turn 18. Whether you are already getting benefits and aren't sure if your benefits are maximized or you need guidance on how to get started, this session is for you. Join us as we explain...


A Blueprint for Successful Transition to Adulthood for the Child with ADD/ADHD
A Blueprint for Successful Transition to Adulthood for the Child with ADD/ADHD episode artwork
#188
09/06/2025

This presentation provides the tools for the parents to lay the groundwork for developing a High School Transition Plan for College, Employment and Independent Living in Adulthood. With a special focus on the struggles of individuals with ADD or ADHD, Louis Geigerman will answer your questions and provide a vision for the future.


Should I Open an ABLE Account?
Should I Open an ABLE Account? episode artwork
#187
09/06/2025

There are many decisions to be made as you prepare for the future of your special needs family member. Living with a disability is often associated with significant costs. That’s why individuals and families should consider contributing to an ABLE account. ABLE accounts offer tax-advantaged savings that can fund disability expenses. Join this webinar to learn why you may want to open your ABLE account before the new year!


Enabling Adults Living With a Disability to Spend Their Own Money and Increase Their Independence
Enabling Adults Living With a Disability to Spend Their Own Money and Increase Their Independence episode artwork
#186
09/05/2025

An important part of special needs planning is protecting your loved one from financial abuse. A True Link card is a prepaid, reloadable Visa debit card designed to help people who may be at risk of exploitation or financial abuse – including adults with disabilities – manage their money. The True Link Visa Card, that helps families protect the finances and independence of the people they support. Join this webinar to hear from Peter Wall, Director of Fiduciary Services, at True Link financial, as he explains the benefits of this unique debit card including: Help Give Financial Independence and Keep Track of S...


Have You Heard about the Family Opportunity Mortgage? For Your Loved One With A Disability?
Have You Heard about the Family Opportunity Mortgage? For Your Loved One With A Disability? episode artwork
#185
09/05/2025

Join this webinar to hear from Dwayne Graham, Branch Manager at New American Funding, as he tells us about a little-known mortgage product, the Family Opportunity Mortgage. This mortgage is a unique product for families considering purchasing a home for a loved one with a disability. You will learn why this is a better option for your family and how it compares with other lending options.


Why do I need a Special Needs Attorney AND a Special Needs Planner?
Why do I need a Special Needs Attorney AND a Special Needs Planner? episode artwork
#184
09/04/2025

What is the boundary between them and what do they both do for my family? As a parent of a child with special needs, you know there are many decisions to be made as it relates to the future of your special needs family member. Considerations such as transitioning, future care options, and preservation of benefit eligibility are a few items that require intentional evaluation. Some decisions require legal preparation and some require Planning arrangements. These are especially important if you have a child who may need care for the rest of their life. During this webinar we will...


Houston Middle and High Schools To Support The Special Needs Student - A Panel Webinar
Houston Middle and High Schools To Support The Special Needs Student - A Panel Webinar episode artwork
#183
09/04/2025

Are you considering a non-traditional school designed for students who have learning concerns and need additional support to meet their needs? Join our panel webinar and hear from several Houston, Texas middle and high schools designed especially for a child with who learns differently.


Growing Up Non-Autistic with an Autistic Sibling - How To Avoid The Loss While Celebrating The Wins!
Growing Up Non-Autistic with an Autistic Sibling - How To Avoid The Loss While Celebrating The Wins! episode artwork
#182
09/04/2025

Consideration of the non-autistic sibling is important as we consider the well-being of a family with a child diagnosed with autism. Sometimes, hidden struggles result in anxiety, anger, and stress. Let's examine the loss of independence, possible embarrassment, and perceived unfairness while also recognizing the abundance of caring, compassionate, and independent character traits of non-autistic children! As a young neurodivergent adult, our speaker, Armando Bernal will present his unique view and offer possible ways to improve your family dynamics.


Person Centered Planning - What It Is And How it Can Help My Family
Person Centered Planning - What It Is And How it Can Help My Family episode artwork
#181
09/04/2025

Do you have a son or daughter with a disability who is transitioning from school to their community? Person Centered Planning may help you! This problem-solving process is especially helpful for someone with a disability who wants to plan for the life they want! Join this webinar to learn from Jeff Garrison-Tate, CEO and Founder of Better Lives as he explains Person Centered Practices and how it can help your family.


The Aggressive and Challenging Child: Why Traditional Discipline Strategies Do Not Work
The Aggressive and Challenging Child:  Why Traditional Discipline Strategies Do Not Work episode artwork
#180
09/03/2025

Are you frustrated and tired of not seeing the behavior change you want in your child? Do you feel you have tried everything with little or no results? Join us as Elizabeth Sharpe, Learning and Behavior Therapist, sheds light on why traditional methods of disciplining and many traditional therapies do not work on some neurodivergent children.


Special Needs Planning - Key Steps to Transition Success
Special Needs Planning - Key Steps to Transition Success episode artwork
#179
09/03/2025

As a parent of a child with special needs, you know there are many decisions to be made as it relates to the future of your family member with special needs. Considerations such as transitioning, future care options, and preservation of benefit eligibility are a few items that require intentional evaluation. These are especially important if you have a child who may need care for the rest of their life. Join us as we explain how to successfully plan for your future.


Transitions - Tips for Launching Your Special Needs Teen into Adulthood
Transitions - Tips for Launching Your Special Needs Teen into Adulthood episode artwork
#178
09/03/2025

As children with special needs transition to the teen and young adult years, their needs change significantly. You can prepare your child and yourselves for a successful transition to independence. Join us to learn the key steps you can take to make the transition as smooth as possible!


Dr. Lindsay Asawa - Managing Social Anxiety in Children and Teens
Dr. Lindsay Asawa - Managing Social Anxiety in Children and Teens episode artwork
#177
01/24/2025

Does your child or teen shy away from social situations, avoid talking to others, or worry too much about what their peers think of them? Shyness is common in children, and teens can be self-conscious, but if we allow social anxiety to linger and grow it can have a serious impact on daily life and happiness. Dr. Lindsay Asawa, licensed clinical psychologist and owner of Beautiful Brain Psychological Services, will share information about how social anxiety develops, treatments and strategies that work, and ways that parents can be supportive.


Attorney Jennifer Coulter - Advanced Issues in Special Needs Trust Planning
Attorney Jennifer Coulter - Advanced Issues in Special Needs Trust Planning episode artwork
#176
01/23/2025

Join this webinar to hear from Special Needs Attorney Coulter as she answers questions from our participants on the uses and limitations of Special Needs Trusts in the context of DAC benefits, including how such trusts can be used differently than for beneficiaries receiving SSI benefits. She will provide overarching principals and distinguish between the various limitations based on programs being received.

A partner at Townsend Allala, Coulter & Kludt, Attorney Coulter's own personal journey following an illness which caused blindness gives her a unique perspective as an attorney in the special needs community. You won't want to...


Attorney Melissa Donovan - Do I Need Guardianship?
Attorney Melissa Donovan - Do I Need Guardianship? episode artwork
#175
01/23/2025

As a parent of a child with special needs, you know there are many decisions to be made as it relates to the future of your special needs family member. What do you do when your loved one cannot care for themselves? Is Guardianship the right answer? We all want our loved ones to live meaningful lives but sometimes they lack the capacity to do so independently. Join Special Needs Attorney Melissa Donovan as she offers guidance on this important topic.


Special Needs Planning - Key Steps to Transition Success
Special Needs Planning - Key Steps to Transition Success episode artwork
#174
01/16/2025

As a parent of a child with special needs, you know there are many decisions to be made as it relates to the future of your family member with special needs. Considerations such as transitioning, future care options, and preservation of benefit eligibility are a few items that require intentional evaluation. These are especially important if you have a child who may need care for the rest of their life. Join us as we explain how to successfully plan for your future.


Attorney Tresi Weeks - The Special Needs Trust
Attorney Tresi Weeks - The Special Needs Trust episode artwork
#173
01/15/2025

As a parent of a child with special needs, you know there are many decisions to be made as it relates to the future of your special needs family member. The decision about inheritance and how to fund a disabled child's future after you are gone is very important. A Special Needs Trust is a valuable resource for many families. Join us as Special Needs Attorney Tresi Weeks discusses the Special Needs Trust and how to successfully plan for your future.


Special Needs Planning - Medicaid Waivers, SSI Eligibility, and Preserving Benefits
Special Needs Planning - Medicaid Waivers, SSI Eligibility, and Preserving Benefits episode artwork
#172
01/15/2025

There are many decisions to be made as you prepare for the future of your special needs family member. Living with a disability is often associated with significant costs. That’s why families should understand Medicaid Waivers (specifically the Texas IDD Service System), SSI eligibility, and the importance of preserving benefits. Join us as we explain how to successfully plan for your future.


Special Needs Planning - Key Steps to Transition Success
Special Needs Planning - Key Steps to Transition Success episode artwork
#171
11/15/2024

As a parent of a child with special needs, you know there are many decisions to be made as it relates to the future of your family member with special needs. Considerations such as transitioning, future care options, and preservation of benefit eligibility are a few items that require intentional evaluation. These are especially important if you have a child who may need care for the rest of their life. Join us as we explain how to successfully plan for your future.


Government Benefits 101
Government Benefits 101 episode artwork
#170
11/15/2024

In this session, we will review SSI & Medicaid, SSDI & Medicare, and Childhood Disability Benefits. We will review when and how to apply, how to be prepared for your appointment, and how to maintain eligibility going forward. You will learn how to maximize benefits for your family. Many of our children with disabilities do not qualify for SSI & Medicaid as minors. The landscape changes when they turn 18. Whether you are already getting benefits and aren't sure if your benefits are maximized or you need guidance on how to get started, this session is for you. Join us as we explain...


What Do I Need To Know About The HCS Waiver? A Panel Webinar
What Do I Need To Know About The HCS Waiver? A Panel Webinar episode artwork
#169
11/15/2024

HCS (Home and Community Services) is a Medicaid waiver program that supplies services and support to Texans with an intellectual disability (ID) or a related condition so that they can live in the community. If you have received the HCS waiver, you may have many questions. When you are contacted by LIDDA, you may still be confused. If so, this webinar is for you! There are three types of locations available to you: Own Home Family Home, Host Home, and Residential Living. During this webinar, HCS providers will answer these questions: Which home location is best for me? (Own...


The Challenges of ADD/ADHD and Mental Illness - How To Access Help In Your Community
The Challenges of ADD/ADHD and Mental Illness - How To Access Help In Your Community episode artwork
#168
11/15/2024

As a parent of a child with ADD/ADHD, you know there are often other associated conditions related to a mental illness. Major depression, PTSD, anorexia nervosa, and suicide attempts are all linked to ADHD. It is important to know what supports, services, and treatment options are available to your family. Our speaker is NAMI Greater Houston Executive Director Angelina Hudson. NAMI, the National Alliance on Mental Illness, is the nation's largest grassroots mental health organization dedicated to building better lives for the millions of Americans affected by mental illness. Join this webinar to learn how your family can...


Special Olympics Texas: Opportunities For Your Child and Next Steps!
Special Olympics Texas:  Opportunities For Your Child and Next Steps! episode artwork
#167
11/14/2024

Join this webinar to hear from Kelsey George, Director of School Community Partnership Integration with Special Olympics Texas. Also, enjoy hearing from Special Olympics Texas athlete Shelby Day and parents Kari and Steve. In this webinar you will learn about Special Olympics Texas sports, joining a team, developing skills, and creating friendships. You will hear directly from an athlete and family about their experience and learn why Special Olympics Texas has impacted their lives! You won't want to miss this webinar to learn how you can get involved in your local area!


Let’s Learn About Texas Workforce Solutions Vocational Rehabilitation Services
Let’s Learn About Texas Workforce Solutions Vocational Rehabilitation Services episode artwork
#166
10/27/2024

Do you have a young adult who would like to prepare for a career and learn to become independent? Were you aware that Texas Workforce, through the Vocational Rehabilitation Division, provides Transition Services for students ages 14-22 by focusing on providing Pre-Employment Transition Services such as career exploration and self-advocacy to name a few. Join our webinar to learn more about Vocational Rehabilitation Services and how to get connected.


The Resistant Pre-Teen And Teen Learner: How To Launch Successfully!
The Resistant Pre-Teen  And Teen Learner:  How To Launch Successfully! episode artwork
#165
10/26/2024

Is your child struggling with academics? Hating school? Unfocused? Unmotivated? Battling homework? Are you concerned about how your high schooler will develop adulting skills and be successful after high school? All students want to learn and be successful! But many times parents are using the wrong strategies to motivate the struggling and resistant student in their home. You are using the wrong strategies if you're not getting the desired results. Join this webinar to learn from Learning and Behavior Therapist Elizabeth Sharpe, M.Ed., as she shares strategies that will motivate your student and increase hope for you and...


Special Education - What Is It Anyway?
Special Education - What Is It Anyway? episode artwork
#164
10/25/2024

Join this webinar with Shana Halvorsen from EmpowerED. Shana is a special education advocate for families and a council member for the Texas Council for Developmental Disabilities. Additionally she is an executive function coach, former attorney, certified high school teacher, and a neurodiverse Mom of a student with disabilities. If you are new to special education, wondering about your rights, or just confused by all of the acronyms on your IEP, you won't want to miss this webinar!


Guardianship and Alternatives with Special Needs Attorney Alison Packard
Guardianship and Alternatives with Special Needs Attorney Alison Packard episode artwork
#163
10/24/2024

Once a child with special needs becomes a legal adult, how does a parent continue to protect and make decisions for that child? During this webinar we will be joined by Special Needs Attorney Alison Packard to discuss the guardianship option as well as alternatives to the guardianship such as powers of attorney, supported decision-making agreements, special needs trusts, and representative payees. You will learn factors to consider in determining the best course of action for a disabled adult child and will receive an overview of the guardianship process in Texas, including the timeline, court procedures, options for limited...


Let's Learn About Special Needs Planning!
Let's Learn About Special Needs Planning! episode artwork
#162
10/03/2024

Enjoy this recording as Allison Schaberg, owner of Consolidated Planning Group, helps special needs families understand how to plan for the future.

Consolidated Planning Group is a holistic, independent financial planning firm that provides advice, analysis, education, and financial planning services for families with special needs loved ones.