AUtism Evaluations for Kids & Teens in nyc

Autism testing for children and teens

Autism spectrum disorder, also called ASD, is a neurodevelopmental disorder that can effect people who have it in a variety of ways. For children, ASD is typically diagnosed when they don’t meet certain developmental milestones and a pediatrician refers them to a psychologist for assessment. On this page, you can explore the basics of autism spectrum disorder testing for children. You can also reach out to me, Dr. Daniel Clark, to learn more about ASD assessments at Park West Psychology.

What Is ASD?

ASD is neurodevelopmental condition. It effects the way that children develop, especially the way they connect with other people and interact with the world.  This includes delayed or different communication abilities, challenges with connecting socially with others, and sensory differences, and repetitive behaviors and interests.  

Common ASD Symptoms in Children

In most cases, a child is referred for a specialized assessment when their pediatrician notices some warning signs of autism. These specialized evaluations are usually completed by a psychologist with expertise in the area. However, parents can seek out ASD testing if they notice their child:

• 9 months – doesn’t make facial expressions or respond to their name.

• 12 months – isn’t interested in playing and or use common gestures like waving.

• 15 months – seems unaware of or too aware of things in the environment and/or sensory input (sounds, sights, smells, textures, and tastes).

• 18 months – doesn’t show interest in items that are looked at, talked about, pointed to, or shown by others.

• 24 months – fails to respond to emotional or social cues of others, like not laughing when others laugh, not making eye contact, or not imitating simple behavior, like clapping

• 30 months – makes unusual noises, moves in repetitive ways, lines toys up in lines, or becomes upset when routines are changed.

• 3 years – has trouble expressing emotions, understanding the emotions or perspectives of others, or doesn’t seem interested in interacting with others.

• 5 years – prefers solo play and has a trouble knowing how to play with others or make friends.

• Any age – has unexpected reactions to sensory input from their environment, difficulty making eye contact, repetitive self-soothing movements, disordered sleep patterns, stomach issues, and hyper-fixating on specific subjects.

The ASD Assessment Process for Children

Many people think about ASD testing as a process that simply answers the question, “Is my child on the autism spectrum?” While the results of assessment will include an answer to this question, the goal is to provide parents with much more information. ASD is a “spectrum,” meaning some people with autism have very obvious or intense symptoms, while others have subtle or mild symptoms. For this reason, it’s important the assessment psychologist develops an individualized testing battery to thoroughly assess the child’s strengths, areas of struggle, and point to potential resources. That all starts with a thorough intake session. I usually speak with parents first to get an idea of what brought them to the practice and better understand the child’s symptoms, pediatrician referral questions, and other observations from the parents. We’ll also discuss past health history and any present medical diagnoses or other pertinent information as well as taking a family history. I always request permission to speak with others who may work with your child, like a teacher or speech therapist to get a holistic picture.

From there, I will administer tests that are evidence-based to reveal diagnostic information for children at the appropriate developmental level. This is based on your child’s age. Older children may be able to provide more verbal or written testing responses and engage in clinical interviewing. For younger toddlers, infants, and those who are non-verbal, I use other interactive and observational assessment strategies to develop a full picture of the child. The results of these interviews, observations, and tests is combined to create a complete report. This final documentation is discussed during a follow up visit. In addition to describing my findings in detail, it will also include any recommended support services or resources that could benefit a neurodiverse child.

Let’s Get Started

I understand that it can be difficult for parents to take the first step to schedule testing for their child. While the results of ASD assessment ensure your child receives necessary support as they grow up, it can still feel stressful or overwhelming to schedule these assessments. I know where you’re coming from, but I hope I can make the ASD testing process a little less stressful for you and your child. That all starts with scheduling your introductory consultation. We can discuss the concerns you have about your child, referral questions from physicians or educators, and other reasons you’re considering scheduling a testing session for your child. When you’re ready to get started, please take a few moments to reach out over the phone at 562) 314-1999, via email at info@parkwestpscyhology.com, or by completing my online inquiry form.