Let’s celebrate your child’s uniqueness…
Testing for Autism in Irvine, CA
How can I support and celebrate my child’s unique neurological differences?
Autism.
Approximately 1 in 44 kids have been diagnosed with autism. It is more common in boys compared to girls (4:1 ratio). But what is autism? It has typically been thought of as a developmental neurological disorder primarily involving social communication skills and social interaction. Kids or adults with autism may have restricted and repetitive patterns of behaviors, activities, or interests.
We are now moving past seeing autism as a disorder and embracing an attitude of “neurodiversity” in which we celebrate every individual’s brain as being different. In this paradigm, we see the autistic brain as having differences to be embraced rather than a disorder to be cured. Just as diversity in nature increases the quality of life for every being, diverse brains contribute to the most meaningful and evolved society. This doesn’t mean that autistic people don't need accommodations or interventions. They absolutely need and deserve various accommodations and interventions. However, we see their differences as unique and build on their strengths to create the highest quality of life.
How do you know if your child has autism? Psychological testing.
Psychological testing is necessary to diagnose autism
How do you diagnose autism with testing?
Testing for autism involves several pieces. We always begin with a parent interview to gain a comprehensive understanding of the child's history and overall picture within their context and culture.
Next, parents, teachers, and possibly the client fill out objective behavior rating scales. There is typically a general behavior rating scale, such as the BASC-3, that measures a wide range of behavioral and emotional strengths as compared to same-age peers. Such a broad measure also screens for various issues such as ADHD, depression, anxiety, conduct problems, relations with parents, and thought disorder. There are also more specific objective rating scales that focus more specifically on autistic tendencies and behaviors.
What is ADOS-2 testing? ADOS is thought of as the gold standard for diagnosing autism. It is a standardized assessment tool that involves semi-structured play and various activities to assess communication, social interaction, facial expression, gesturing, and emotional insight. It takes about an hour.
What is MIGDAS-2 testing? MIGDAS-2 is similar to ADOS-2, but it is more sensory-focused and verbal. This is recommended instead of ADOS-2, depending on the age of the client and the questions being addressed. During the clinical interview, we decide which tests are better suited to meet your needs.
What other tools are used in a comprehensive psychological assessment? More comprehensive testing can involve an IQ test, achievement testing, as well as testing in learning, memory, language, and executive functioning. In the clinical interview, parents work together with the evaluator to determine the most strategic test battery for the child.
Do you do testing for adults? Yes, autism testing is available for any age.
Testing for autism can help your child…
explore their unique abilities and challenges
tease out other disorders such as ADHD and emotional issues that can also cause difficulties in social and emotional functioning
obtain a specific plan for growth and development
attain accommodations for school and standardized tests
receive appropriate interventions in the school environment
Frequently asked questions about autism testing
FAQs
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The quickest and easiest way to get started is to set up the initial parent interview (or adult client interview) by clicking the "Schedule Now" button, located here and on the home page. You will be directed to a client portal, where you will have access to my schedule. Forms will be designated to your account, including a child intake form. It is very helpful if you are able to fill this out before the initial parent interview, as it will allow me to make the best use of our time.
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We will figure this out together in the initial parent interview.
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Psychological testing is billed at $300 per hour. The initial interview is $500.
The typical battery for autism includes a parent interview (diagnostic interview $500), a child interview, rating scales (parent, teacher, child), ADOS2 (or MIGDAS for most adults), and IQ testing.
These tests, along with the scoring, interpreting, report writing, and 60-minute feedback session, are typically $3500.
Additional testing (i.e., TOVA, achievement tests, neuropsychological tests) is billed at an additional $300 per hour.
During the initial interview, we will determine the number and type of tests to best meet your needs.
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The initial parent interview (diagnostic interview) takes 1 hour. Behavior rating scales take approximately 20 minutes. ADOS-2 (or MIGDAS for adults) takes approximately 1 hour. IQ testing takes 60-90 minutes.
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Yes, testing is available for any age. The specific tests often change for adults. We will determine the specific tests during the initial interview.