If your child is showing signs of an autism spectrum disorder (ASD), a comprehensive psychological evaluation may be appropriate.

The symptoms your child displays can vary widely and may include difficulties with:

  • Engaging in back and forth conversations that include sharing interests, emotions, and changing facial expressions appropriate for the situation
  • Initiating social interactions
  • Using verbal and nonverbal behavior in order to facilitate communication
  • Understanding nonverbal communication
  • Adjusting behavior to suit the situation or social context
  • Demonstrating an interest in others
  • Displaying repetitive behavior
  • Adhering to routines in a ritualized manner
  • Over reacting or under reacting to sensory aspects of the environment
  • Demonstrating an unusual interest in sensory aspects of the environment

How is ASD diagnosed?

A variety of diagnostic measures are used when assessing autism spectrum disorders and the types of evaluations procedures utilized depend on the age, developmental level, and communication skills of the child. What does ASD testing include?

  • Clinical interviews (with you and your child/adolescent)
  • Consultation with professionals (teachers, other professionals working with your child/adolescent)
  • Direct measures of skills such as:
    • Intellectual skills
    • Academic skills
    • Speech and language skills
    • Motor coordination skills
    • Neurocognitive skills
    • Behavioral and emotional functioning
    • Adaptive behavior

What can ASD testing tell me about my child?

Testing clarifies whether or not an autism spectrum disorder accounts for your child’s difficulties. We also will provide recommendations to assist in educational and treatment planning that can help your child be more successful at home, in school, and with friends.

Additional information on evaluations of autism spectrum disorders (ASD)

Review this information packet on evaluation services for autism spectrum disorders at Inova Kellar Center.