Elements of the Autism Assessment Process
Intervention and therapy play a crucial role in helping individuals with Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) reach their full potential. Effective support begins with an accurate, comprehensive autism assessment.
At the Center for Behavioral Health at Woods, we assess people from one year of age to adulthood for autism.
The process varies according to the individual’s age, but it always involves a variety of trusted tools, proven strategies, and expert professionals. Our goal is always to achieve the most accurate, holistic assessment possible, so people with autism receive the intervention and support they need to thrive
The Autism Assessment Process: 6 Elements
While individuals of any age may be assessed for autism, assessment most often takes place early in life.
Indeed, ASD can sometimes be detected at 18 months of age or younger. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends all children be screened specifically for ASD at their regular 18-month and 24-month well-child visits.
A focused autism assessment usually begins with a medical doctor giving a referral to a child psychologist or clinical psychologist, child psychiatrist, or another qualified professional.
Gathering Information
One of the first steps in autism assessment is gathering information from caregivers and family members about the individual’s developmental history. This information includes such milestones as when the individual started crawling, walking, or speaking.
Gathering information about the individual’s social communication skills is also important. The clinician will want to know how the individual interacts with others, verbally and non-verbally, and about challenges they face understanding and using language.
Observing Behaviors
Observation plays a crucial role. Autism assessment doctors or other professionals observe the individual’s behavior in different settings—at home, at school, or during a therapy session.
These observations help identify repetitive behaviors, sensory sensitivities, or difficulties in social interactions. Observations may also involve assessing the individual’s ability to understand and respond to facial expressions and social cues.
Standardized Screening Tools
Professionals use standardized screening tools and diagnostic criteria to determine if an individual meets the criteria for an autism diagnosis. These tools and criteria are based on extensive research designed to provide an accurate and reliable assessment.
Two commonly used screening tools are the Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule–Second Edition (ADOS-2) and the Autism Diagnostic Interview–Revised (ADI-R).
- The ADOS-2 is an interactive assessment involving structured play and social interaction between the individual and a trained clinician. The clinician carefully observes the individual’s communication skills, social interactions, and restricted and repetitive behaviors.
- The ADOS-2 provides standardized criteria for evaluating these areas.The ADI-R is a comprehensive interview administered to caregivers or family members of the individual. It covers domains including language and communication skills, social interactions, and repetitive behaviors. The ADI-R delves into the individual’s developmental history, providing valuable data about their early childhood behaviors and developmental milestones.
Cognitive Autism Assessment Tests
Cognitive tests measure a wide range of cognitive functions, including memory, attention, language skills, visual-spatial abilities, and reasoning. These tests help clinicians and psychologists understand how the individual processes information, solves problems, and learns new concepts.
Tests are administered under standardized conditions. They yield a numerical score reflecting an individual’s cognitive abilities compared to others in their age group. Two of the most well-known are the Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale (WAIS) for adults and the Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children (WISC).
Adaptive Autism Assessment Tests
Adaptive tests focus on an individual’s ability to function independently in their natural environment. These tests measure an individual’s skills related to communication, self-care, social interactions, and daily life activities. They evaluate how well an individual can interact with others, follow routines, use community resources, and cope with stressful situations.
The Vineland Adaptive Behavior Scales (VABS) is one widely used adaptive test. It assesses adaptive behaviors across such domains as communication, daily living skills, socialization, and motor skills.
Informal Assessments and Other Information Sources
Professionals may also conduct informal assessments using checklists, questionnaires, and direct observations. They may also consider the individual’s medical history, developmental history, and any previous evaluations or assessments. And they will seek input from teachers, therapists, or other professionals who’ve interacted with the individual.
This multi-source approach yields a comprehensive understanding of the individual’s strengths, challenges, and developmental trajectory.
Comprehensive Autism Assessment Opens Doors
Assessing and diagnosing autism at an early stage can greatly impact an individual’s quality of life. Obtaining a formal diagnosis can help individuals and their families access appropriate resources, interventions, and support systems.
We understand seeking an autism assessment can be overwhelming.
Remember: You are not alone.
When you contact the team of experienced and compassionate professionals at the Center for Behavioral Health at Woods, you’re taking the first step toward ensuring the one for whom you care receives the respect, acceptance, and support they need to flourish.
Call us at 215-750-4004 or request an appointment online now.
Help your child or other loved one access the understanding and resources that can make a positive difference in their life—and yours.