Child and Adolescent Autism Assessment
Tailored, Affirming Evaluations: Autism assessments focus on strengths and challenges while embracing each child’s individuality.
Evidence-Based Tools: Comprehensive evaluations use ADOS-2, MIGDAS-2, BASC-3, and more to assess key developmental areas.
Collaborative Approach: Parent and teacher input ensures a complete picture of the child’s abilities and needs.
Targeted Interventions: Families receive guidance and connections to supports like Relationship Development Intervention (RDI).
The Power of Early Intervention
Phone/TEXT
Phone: 619-600-068
Text: 619-607-1230
At the Family Guidance and Therapy Center, we provide comprehensive autism diagnostic evaluations tailored to toddlers, preschoolers, school-age children, and teens. Our evaluations are designed to identify neurodevelopmental strengths and challenges while embracing a neurodiversity-affirming approach that values each child’s individuality and developmental stage.
We use a variety of evidence-based tools to ensure a thorough assessment, including the Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule, Second Edition (ADOS-2), and the Monteiro Interview Guidelines for Diagnosing the Autism Spectrum, Second Edition (MIGDAS-2). These tools evaluate communication, social interactions, play, and sensory experiences while creating a strengths-based understanding of your child. Emotional and behavioral health is assessed using tools like the Behavior Assessment System for Children, Third Edition (BASC-3), which evaluates social skills, adaptability, and internalizing and externalizing behaviors. Adaptive functioning is measured through the Vineland Adaptive Behavior Scales, Third Edition (Vineland-3), which looks at practical skills such as communication, daily living, and socialization.
We combine these evidence-based tools with a person-centered approach that focuses on children or teens strengths and abilities.
How We Can Help
To better understand cognitive abilities, we employ assessments such as the Kaufman Assessment Battery for Children (K-ABC) and the Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children, Fifth Edition (WISC-5), which provide insight into problem-solving, memory, and processing abilities. Parent input is integral to our evaluations, often guided by the Checklist for Autism Spectrum Disorder (CASD), which rates 30 potential symptoms of autism, ensuring a detailed understanding of your observations and concerns. For school-age children, we also gather insights from teachers using tools like the BASC-3 and Autism Spectrum Rating Scales (ASRS), which provide valuable information on how your child presents in academic and peer settings, including their interactions, learning styles, and social behaviors. All assessments include emotional and behavioral screening, adaptive functioning, cognitive ability evaluations, and structured observations. We also offer additional assessments for co-occurring conditions and differential diagnosis when needed.
Our goal is to provide clarity and guidance to help your child thrive. If a diagnosis is made, we’ll connect you with targeted interventions that align with your child’s needs, such as Relationship Development Intervention (RDI) and other autism spectrum treatments. By combining comprehensive assessments with a supportive and affirming approach, we empower families to help their children grow into their happiest, healthiest selves.
Telehealth Options
We make mental health support accessible through the convenience of telehealth services. Telehealth offers the same compassionate, high-quality care as in-person sessions, tailored to meet the needs of individuals, couples, and families. With flexible scheduling and the ability to access therapy from any device, telehealth ensures that getting the help you need is simple, convenient, and stress-free.