Our patient navigators are here for you!

The patient navigator will be the first person you interact with when starting to receive services at CAN. You can think of them as your GPS for the autism world.

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what does a patient navigator do?

Patient Navigation

Manage Patient Referrals and Evaluation Requests

After our patient navigators receive and process your referral, you will be connected to the appropriate clinic for scheduling. Our patient navigators may be receiving a call from our patient navigators for further information in order to process your referral.

Patient Navigation

Coordinate Care

After receiving an autism spectrum disorder (ASD) or related diagnosis, there are many different supports that may be put in place. The patient navigator can point you to appropriate healthcare providers within the UFHealth system and in the community. This can include many different professionals, such as psychologists, psychiatrists, occupational therapists, speech therapists, physical therapists, behavior analysts, specialty doctors, and many others. The patient navigator can also direct you to community rehabilitation (occupational therapy, speech therapy, and physical therapy) and/or applied behavior analysis (ABA) therapy providers.

Patient Navigation

Working Together as a Team

The patient navigator is an important part of the team of specialists involved in the care of a patient on the autism spectrum. They help professionals from different fields to communicate and collaborate on patients' care.

Patient Navigation

Patient Resources

The patient navigators are here to assist with the recommended resources for individuals on the autism spectrum.

Patient Navigation Frequently Asked QUestions

How do I get a referral for services at CAN?

If you are concerned about you or your child having ASD, discuss these concerns with the appropriate primary care provider. If they believe an autism evaluation or other services are appropriate, they will provide a referral for services at CAN.

Is there an age limit to patient navigation services?

No, patient navigation services are available throughout the life span for those who are diagnosed with ASD or suspected to be on the autism spectrum.

Does a patient navigator only help me receive an evaluation?

No, your patient navigator is here to help you navigate you or your child’s plan of care for ASD. They coordinate with you, CAN providers, and other healthcare providers within UFHealth to create a plan of care that will aim to meet all of your or your child’s needs.

Contact a Patient Navigator


Phone: (352) 733-1030
Fax: (352) 627-4163

Make an Appointment with Patient Navigator Mary Kleckner


Contact your patient navigator to make an appointment for patient navigation. To request an appointment with a patient navigator, please call (352) 627-4163 and request patient navigation services.”

Mary Kleckner

Certified Spanish Language Interpreter

Make an Appointment with Patient Navigator Linda Petrossian


Contact your patient navigator to make an appointment for patient navigation. To request an appointment with a patient navigator, please call (352) 627-4163 and request patient navigation services.”

Linda Petrossian