Autism Diagnosis
Autism Testing & Diagnosis
Before diving into ABA (Applied Behavior Analysis) therapy, it’s important to ensure your child has an official autism diagnosis. Here at ABA Centers of Washington, we make the process easy with screening, testing, and diagnosis for autism. When you see the telltale signs of autism, such as developmental challenges or struggles with communication, our team can help your family decide the next steps.
If you’ve been researching how to get an autism diagnosis, you may have noticed that it can be lengthy, taking months or even years to get an official test and diagnosis. We’re on a mission to make it easier for you. We’ve put in the effort and resources to speed up the autism diagnosis process and get your child what they need.
Contact Us Today with No Obligation
Reach out and schedule an initial autism testing consultation. We are here to listen attentively to your concerns, ask the right questions, and reach the proper diagnosis. Additionally, we will verify any applicable insurance benefits and explore appointment options with you.
Analysis & Evaluation
Following your autism diagnosis appointment, our medical specialists will diligently examine the results from the testing session, a process that generally requires one to two weeks.
Preliminary Assessment
Our clinical team will meet with you and your child during your appointment. The evaluation entails play-based activities in a welcoming environment and utilizing ADOS-2, the current industry standard for autism assessment. The comprehensive autism screening appointment encompasses various components and typically takes two to four hours.
Autism Diagnosis Report
We will share our findings and inform you of any diagnoses during a subsequent appointment. This process includes providing a written report and offering care recommendations. At ABA Centers of Washington, your child’s comfort is our top priority, and we allocate ample time and support to discuss the results thoroughly.
Autism Testing: How Diagnosis Happens
An Autism Spectrum Disorder diagnosis does not happen through a medical test; the diagnosis relies on a comprehensive examination of a child’s developmental history and behavior.
For ensuring a successful and independent life, early intervention is paramount for children with autism, especially those between the ages of 2 and 5. This intervention guarantees that they receive the appropriate therapy and support.
Studies indicate that one out of every four children under 6 is at risk of experiencing developmental delays or disabilities. We recommend screening if you have noticed any delays in your child’s development. Medical professionals conduct these screenings at 9, 18, and 30 months. If development challenges persist, undergoing a development screening at 24 months is advisable.
During your child’s developmental screening, in most cases, you will complete a questionnaire regarding your child’s history and behaviors. Sometimes, the child may also complete a short test. These mini-evaluations act as data to comprehend patterns or deficits in development, including:
- Movement
- Behavior
- Thinking
- Emotions
- Language
If, following this screening, you believe your child might have autism, we can assist you with autism testing and diagnosis. The testing methods employed to diagnose autism are:
- The Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule (ADOS-2): This analyzes your child’s patterns, paying close attention to repetitive behavior, play, communication, and social skills.
- The Autism Diagnostic Interview-Revised test: A conversation between you and an expert to better understand your concerns and your child’s behavior.
- The Childhood Autism Rating Scale, Second Edition: This 15-question test helps determine whether your child may have a condition other than autism. This test is crucial, as behaviors observed in autism can also occur in other conditions, such as ADHD.
- Any additional assessments that can help clarify an autism diagnosis involving your child’s problem-solving, motor skills, hearing, language mastery, and vision.
Start Your Child’s ABA Journey with the Industry’s Top Support
Testing and autism diagnosis are essential, but they are only the first steps to better outcomes for individuals experiencing neurodiversity. ABA therapy can be a transformative undertaking that leaves many caregivers and parents astounded by their child’s progress in daily living.
You can depend on ABA Centers of Washington to facilitate a positive diagnostic experience for your child and family. For more information about ASD services with us, including testing, diagnosis, and ABA therapy, call us at (877) 554-0710.
