Autism Evaluations & Diagnostic Support
You've noticed the signs. You've completed an online screener that said your child may be at risk for autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Now what?At Action Behavior Centers, we offer two types of autism evaluations to help families navigate their next steps: the Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule, Second Edition (ADOS-2) and the Initial Diagnostic Evaluation (IDE). Both are designed to support the diagnostic process and open the door to early intervention services like applied behavior analysis (ABA) therapy.
What are the steps in the autism diagnostic process?
Wondering how to test for autism or where to begin an early autism evaluation? Here's what the process looks like at ABC.
1. 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.
2. Schedule an autism evaluation
The next step is an in-person or telehealth evaluation. Children are also often referred for an evaluation after concerns come up at a pediatrician visit. Depending on your region and your child's needs, this may be an ADOS-2 or an Initial Diagnostic Evaluation (IDE).
3. Review results
After the evaluation, results are shared with your child's pediatrician or specialist. If your child completed an ADOS-2, we compile the results into a summary that goes directly to your child's doctor. If your child completed an IDE, a licensed psychologist will review findings with you directly.
4. Confirm diagnosis
Based on a combination of evaluation results, parent questionnaires, and your child's developmental history, your doctor or psychologist will determine whether your child meets the criteria for autism spectrum disorder. You'll receive guidance on what the diagnosis means and what comes next.
Why an autism diagnosis matters
Early diagnosis opens the door to early intervention, and early intervention has been shown to support better long-term outcomes for autistic children.1 Many families find that having a diagnosis brings clarity and opens doors to a support system they didn't have before.
A diagnosis is often required before a child can:
- Access evidence-based autism services like ABA therapy
- Receive insurance coverage for autism treatment
Qualify for special education support and school accommodations
A few things to know about the ADOS-2 at ABC:
- Offered at no cost as a community benefit
- Designed for children ages 18 months to 6 years old
- Results are shared with your child's doctor, not given as a standalone diagnosis
- Availability varies by location
A few things to know about the IDE at ABC:
- Billed to insurance
- Offered in-center or via telehealth
- A psychologist walks you through the findings and explains whether your child meets the criteria for an autism diagnosis
- You'll receive a written diagnostic report to share with other providers
- Availability varies by location
What’s the difference between an IDE and the ADOS-2?
Both evaluations are rooted in best practices and designed to support early identification of autism. Here's a simple breakdown to help you understand the difference. Not sure which evaluation makes sense for your child? Contact us, and we can help!
IDE
- Conducted by licensed psychologist
- Billed to insurance
- Get a formal diagnosis with a written report
- Ages vary by location
- Conducted in-center or telehealth
ADOS-2
- Conducted by trained ABC clinician
- No cost
- Get a summary sent to your child's doctor
- For ages 18 months to 6 years
- Conducted in-center
Frequently asked questions about autism testing
View all FAQs
Who can diagnose autism?
How long does the autism evaluation process take?
What happens after my child is diagnosed with autism?
