Get a clearer next step for your child

If you’ve noticed developmental differences or have questions about autism, a brief online screener can help you decide whether it’s time to seek a professional evaluation.

Complete a no-cost online screener

The first step is completing a simple online autism screening tool that can be completed at home. Screeners can help identify your child's autism risk and give insight into whether further evaluation is needed.

  • No cost
  • Complete it at home in a few minutes
  • Not a diagnosis, but the right place to begin

If your child may benefit from professional care, we work with major insurance providers and can help verify your coverage:

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Find the right screener

#1 Rated ABA therapy in Dallas

ABC had been life changing for both us, and our child. They have been there every step of the way, from the initial testing/diagnosis, to daily check ins and updates at pick up. They helped us with insurance questions and issues, which are overwhelming all on their own. We’ve seen so many improvements in our little one. The therapists and everyone at the facility go above and beyond. I can’t recommend them enough!!

Jennifer Matson

The staff here is on point! I would highly recommend registering in this ABA program. Our son is 4 years old and has shown major improvement since he’s been enrolled (1.5 months). Never have had a bad experience, all of the therapists here are very good with all children from what I’ve witnessed. The director always greets us at the door at drop off and pick up with a very positive attitude. We have really enjoyed the warmth from this center! Our child has progressed very well in the little time that he has attended. Would rate 10 stars if possible! If you’re looking for a kind and compassionate environment for your children, would definitely consider ABC.

Mark Leonard Sr

Very happy with ABC and all the therapists. They are all so sweet and nice, always willing to help in any way they can. My son loves going to "school" everyday and loves his therapists so much. I always leave with a peace of mind knowing they are taking good care of him and as a parent, that is the most important thing. We are so lucky to be part of the ABC family. I cannot recommend this place enough, absolutely happy with everyone here.

Lyssa Urias

A simple first step without jumping to conclusions

A screener cannot diagnose autism or tell you everything about your child. It can help identify whether a full evaluation may be worth pursuing, so you can move forward with more clarity and confidence.

You know your child best. If something feels different, it’s okay to ask questions.

What happens after the screener?

1. Complete the questions

Answer a short set of questions about your child’s everyday behavior and development.

2. Review your result

Your result can help indicate whether further evaluation may be helpful. A higher-risk result is not an autism diagnosis.

3. Get help finding the right next step

If an evaluation is recommended—or you still have concerns—our team can help you understand your options and find care near you.

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How is autism diagnosed?

How is autism diagnosed?

The first signs of ASD typically appear before age 2. There is not currently a blood test, brain scan, or physical examination that can diagnose autism. Instead, a licensed professional, such as a pediatrician or child psychologist, can make an accurate diagnosis after observing a child’s behavior during a formal assessment. Learn more about how to get an autism diagnosis.

Diagnosing ASD involves several steps:

  1. Identification: Parents, caregivers, or doctors may begin to recognize signs of autism in a child’s behavior. Early signs may involve not making eye contact or not speaking.
  2. Screening: Parents or doctors can use screening tools, such as the M-CHAT-R or CAST, to see whether their child should receive a more formal evaluation.
  3. Developmental evaluation: A trained clinician or specialist completes an evaluation using directly administered, play-based tests. One commonly used test, the ADOS-2, is a gold-standard tool that can reliably identify ASD symptoms.
  4. Diagnosis: The child's doctor or psychologist will review all test results and data collected to determine if the child meets the criteria for an ASD diagnosis.
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Who can diagnose autism?

Who can diagnose autism?

In the U.S., autism is diagnosed by qualified medical and mental health professionals through a comprehensive evaluation. This process may include direct observation, developmental history, caregiver interviews, and standardized diagnostic tools to determine whether a child meets criteria for autism spectrum disorder. Many children can be evaluated as early as 18 months old.

Professionals who may diagnose autism include:

  • Developmental pediatricians
  • Child psychologists or neuropsychologists
  • Child psychiatrists
  • Pediatric neurologists

Board Certified Behavior Analysts® (BCBAs®) may support the evaluation process, but a formal autism diagnosis is typically made by one of the specialists listed above. Learn more about how to get an autism diagnosis.

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Does my child need an autism diagnosis before starting ABA therapy?

Does my child need an autism diagnosis before starting ABA therapy?

Yes! Your child will need a formal autism diagnosis before they can begin ABA therapy, receive insurance coverage, and access certain school programs. As a trusted ABA therapy provider, Action Behavior offers no-cost autism evaluations, including the ADOS-2, to help guide your next steps. Contact us today to learn more about the autism evaluation process.

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Autism Screeners in Dallas

How old is your child?

Great, we recommend the CAST Screener

Great, we recommend the M-CHAT-R Screener

Find top ABA therapy in Dallas, Texas

Top ABA Therapy near you available at Action Behavior Centers
1
4.5
(45 ratings)

Name

ABA Therapy, Home-based Care
0.5mi
—
Address Address Address
,
Brooklyn
,
NY
11211
Insurance:
Anthem, Cigna.. +12 more
Ages Served:
0 - 17 years old
Phone:
(512) 364-0006
View Center
(123) 333-4444
Contact Center
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Name

0.5mi
—
Address
,
Brooklyn
,
NY
11211
(512) 364-0006
View Center

Check Autism Therapy insurance coverage in Dallas

Insurance coverage for ABA therapy can vary by state and by health plan. Use the tool below to find state-specific insurance coverage for autism therapy in your area. Don’t see your insurance listed? Contact your local ABA center to verify in-network ABA coverage.

Please note: Medicaid is not accepted in Texas at this time.

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