Screening and Diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) can sometimes be detected at 18 months of age or younger. By age 2, a diagnosis by any of our experienced professionals can be considered reliable. However, many children do not receive a final diagnosis until much older. Some people are not diagnosed until they are adolescents or adults. This delay means that people with ASD might not get the early help they need. A comprehensive evaluation, like the one offered at our multi-disciplinary center  can provide a diagnosis. 

Diagnosing children with ASD as early as possible is important to make sure children receive the services and supports they need to reach their full potential. A true comprehnsive evaluation to Diagnose Austism is necessary. 

Developmental Diagnosis

A brief test using a screening tool does not provide a diagnosis, but it can indicate whether a child is on the right development track or if a specialist should take a closer look. If the screening tool identifies an area of concern, a formal developmental evaluation may be needed. This formal evaluation, which is offered at BEYONDADHD by our doctors, is a more in-depth look at a child’s development and is usually done by a neuropsychologist, child psychologist,  neurologist and psychiatrist.

The specialist may observe the child give the child a structured test, ask the parents or caregivers questions, or ask them to fill out questionnaires. The results of this formal evaluation highlight your child’s strengths and challenges and can inform whether they meet criteria for a developmental diagnosis.

A diagnosis of ASD now includes several conditions that used to be diagnosed separately; autistic disorder. We can help you understand and navigate the diagnostic process.

The results of a formal developmental evaluation can also inform whether your child needs early intervention services. We are here for you.