Where Can I Get My Child Evaluated for Autism?

Original post date of 8/4/2023. Updated on 7/22/2024.

As parents, ensuring the well-being and optimal development of our children is a top priority. When a child shows signs of developmental delays or atypical behaviors, it’s natural to feel concerned. Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is one of the conditions that can impact a child’s social skills, communication, and behavior. Early diagnosis and intervention are crucial for improving outcomes. If you suspect your child may have autism, it’s important to know where to get them evaluated.

Why Get Your Child Evaluated for Autism?

Obtaining an official autism diagnosis for your child is essential for several reasons. It provides a clear understanding of your child’s unique needs and challenges, empowering you to make informed treatment and educational strategies decisions. An autism diagnosis also enables access to specialized services and resources.

Many support systems, educational programs, and therapeutic interventions are specifically designed to cater to individuals on the autism spectrum. With a formal diagnosis, you can better access these valuable resources. Additionally, an official diagnosis facilitates eligibility for governmental assistance and disability benefits. These benefits can significantly alleviate the financial burden of seeking appropriate therapies for your child’s developmental needs.

Recognizing the Need for an Autism Evaluation

Recognizing the signs of autism in your child can be challenging, especially since children develop at different rates. However, there are some common signs to look out for, including:

• Delayed Speech and Language Skills: Children with autism may have difficulty speaking or may not speak at all. They might also need help understanding language or using words correctly.
• Social Challenges: These can include avoiding eye contact, not responding to their name, difficulty understanding others’ feelings, and trouble making friends.
• Repetitive Behaviors: This includes repetitive movements like hand-flapping, rocking, or spinning objects. They may also engage in the same activities repeatedly.
• Sensory Sensitivities: Children with autism might be overly sensitive to sounds, lights, textures, or smells. They may also have unusual reactions to sensory experiences.

Where Can I Get My Child Evaluated for Autism

There are several places where you can get your child evaluated for autism. Each option has its advantages, and the best choice depends on your location, healthcare coverage, and specific needs. Here are some of the most common places.

Primary Care Physician or Pediatrician

The first point of contact for most parents is their child’s primary care physician or pediatrician. Pediatricians are trained to recognize the early signs of autism and can conduct initial screenings. During a routine well-child visit, you can express your concerns and share your observations. The pediatrician may use standardized screening tools, such as the Modified Checklist for Autism in Toddlers (M-CHAT), to assess your child’s development.

If the screening indicates potential signs of autism, the pediatrician will likely refer you to a specialist for a comprehensive evaluation.

Developmental Pediatricians

Developmental pediatricians are medical doctors with specialized training in child development and developmental disorders, including autism. They conduct thorough evaluations, which may involve a detailed medical history, developmental assessments, and behavioral observations. Developmental pediatricians often work in multidisciplinary teams that include psychologists, speech therapists, and occupational therapists to provide a comprehensive assessment.

Child Psychologists and Psychiatrists

Child psychologists and psychiatrists are also key professionals in the evaluation of autism. They are trained to assess cognitive, emotional, and behavioral aspects of development. These specialists use various diagnostic tools and standardized tests to evaluate your child’s social skills, communication abilities, and behavior patterns.

Autism Centers and Clinics

Many hospitals and academic medical centers have specialized autism centers or clinics dedicated to diagnosing and treating autism. These centers often provide multidisciplinary evaluations conducted by a team of professionals, including developmental pediatricians, psychologists, speech therapists, and occupational therapists. Autism centers offer a comprehensive approach, ensuring that all aspects of your child’s development are thoroughly assessed.

Early Intervention Programs

Early intervention programs are designed for children from birth to age three who have developmental delays or disabilities. These programs offer free or low-cost evaluations and services. In the United States, early intervention services are provided through the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) Part C. To access these services, you can contact your state’s early intervention program and request an evaluation. If your child qualifies, they will receive an Individualized Family Service Plan (IFSP) outlining the services they need.

Schools and Educational Services

If your child is of school age, you can request an evaluation through your local school district. Public schools are required by law to provide evaluations and services for children with disabilities under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). You can request an evaluation in writing, and the school district will conduct assessments to determine if your child qualifies for special education services. If eligible, the school will develop an Individualized Education Program (IEP) tailored to your child’s needs.

ABA Therapy After an Autism Evaluation

After an autism diagnosis, one of the most effective and widely recommended treatments is Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy. ABA therapy is a science-based approach that focuses on understanding and improving specific behaviors. It is tailored to each child’s unique needs and aims to enhance social, communication, and learning skills through positive reinforcement.

ABA therapy services have been extensively researched and shown to produce significant improvements in various areas, including:

• Communication Skills: Enhancing both verbal and non-verbal communication abilities.
• Social Skills: Promoting positive interactions with peers and adults.
• Academic Skills: Improving learning and performance in school settings.
• Daily Living Skills: Teaching essential life skills such as dressing, eating, and hygiene.
• Behavior Management: Reducing problematic behaviors and promoting positive behavior changes

Get Started with ABA Therapy at Empower Behavioral Health

At Empower Behavioral Health, we specialize in providing high-quality ABA therapy to support your child’s development and help them thrive. If your child has been evaluated and diagnosed with autism, our team of certified and experienced therapists is ready to create a personalized treatment plan tailored to their unique needs. Don’t wait to give your child the support they need to reach their full potential. Contact Empower Behavioral Health today to learn more about our ABA therapy services.