FAQs about the Family Empowermenmt Scholarship for Students with Unique Abilities
At Herrera Psychology, we understand that families often have questions about how the Family Empowerment Scholarship for Students with Unique Abilities (FES-UA) works. Below, we’ve answered some of the most common questions we hear from parents.
What is the FES-UA Scholarship?
The Family Empowerment Scholarship for Students with Unique Abilities (FES-UA) is a Florida program that provides families with an Education Savings Account (ESA) to fund a customized education plan for their child with special needs.
Who qualifies for the scholarship?
Your child may qualify if they:
Are a Florida resident (or dependent of an active-duty service member with PCS orders to Florida)
Are age 3 through grade 12
Have an IEP or a formal diagnosis of a qualifying disability (such as autism, ADHD, Down syndrome, cerebral palsy, or other eligible conditions)
How much funding does my child receive?
The average award is around $10,000 per year, with higher amounts available for students with greater levels of need. Funds are deposited quarterly into your ESA.
What can the scholarship funds be used for?
Funds may cover a wide range of services and supports, including:
Therapy services (speech, occupational, physical, ABA, counseling, etc.)
Private school tuition or tutoring
Homeschool curriculum and instructional materials
Assistive technology and educational tools
Specialized services and evaluations
How do I apply?
Families apply through one of two approved Scholarship Funding Organizations:
Step Up For Students
AAA Scholarship Foundation
You’ll need to submit documentation such as proof of residency, your child’s age, and either an IEP or qualifying diagnosis.
How do I use my funds with Herrera Psychology?
Because Herrera Psychology is an approved FES-UA provider, you can apply scholarship funds directly toward therapy, testing, and support services with us. We make billing as simple as possible—either through direct billing or reimbursement support.
Do I need to reapply each year?
Yes. The scholarship must be renewed annually with updated documentation, so families should plan to reapply before the posted deadlines.
Can Herrera Psychology help me understand what services are covered?
Absolutely! Our administrative team is experienced in guiding families through the process. We’ll help you make the most of your scholarship benefits while focusing on your child’s progress and well-being.
Still Have Questions?
We’re here to help! Contact us today
FAQs about FES Scholarships and Therapy at Herrera Psychology
Does the FES Scholarship cover therapy?
The Family Empowerment Scholarship for Students with Unique Abilities (FES-UA) allows families to use scholarship funds for approved educational and therapeutic services — including group therapy and individual therapy services.
Are you an approved FES provider?
Yes! Herrera Psychology is an approved FES-UA provider, and all of our therapy groups and services qualify for funding through this scholarship.
What services or groups can I use the scholarship for?
You can use FES-UA funds to cover:
Summer therapy groups (Anxiety Relief Lab, Resilience Lab, Friendship Lab, Superpower Lab, Athlete’s Mind)
Certain individual therapy services (ask us for details)
How do I use my FES funds for therapy?
Once you are approved and have an account:
You select Herrera Psychology as your provider.
You request funding through your portal.
We confirm your registration and apply the funds.
Are there any out-of-pocket costs?
In most cases, if your child is approved for FES-UA and the group or service is eligible, the entire fee is covered. If you have any questions about coverage, we are happy to help you check!
Does the scholarship cover individual therapy?
Yes — FES-UA funds can also be used for eligible individual therapy sessions. Contact us for more details on which services qualify.
Who can I contact for more information?
Contact us here at Herrera Psychology! Call us or email us or just hit the button below to go to the contact page and you can leave us a message.
813-395-9049
We are happy to answer any questions and help you get started!