Autism Spectrum Disorder, Testing, & the ADOS-2 Evaluation

Pricing (cash, check, cards accepted)

ADOS-2 Evaluation with classification and a full clinical writeup and diagnosis (if applicable): $1200 $1255

Prices reflect our current launch discounts and are subject to change as our calendar begins to fill up.

Note that we do NOT work with or bill any insurance companies and require a down payment when scheduling the formal evaluation.

What is Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)?

Per the National Institute of Mental Health, “ASD is a neurological and developmental disorder that affects how people interact with others, communicate, learn, and behave.” More specifically, Autism Spectrum Disorder refers to a broad range of conditions, characterized by difficulty with social skills and interactions, speech and non-verbal communication, and restricted, repetitive behaviors. Every single person with autism is different.

Some common characteristics associated with ASD include:

  • trouble communicating thoughts, needs, and emotions

  • limited facial expressions

  • intense or excessive interests

  • little or no interest in similar-aged peers

  • poor eye contact

  • getting very upset by minor changes in routines

  • taking things very literally

  • delayed language skills

  • strong or exaggerated reactions to tastes, sounds, smells, textures, etc.

  • “stimming” e.g. rocking, flapping hands, toe-walking, spinning, close visual inspection

  • echolalia (repeating words or phrases verbatim)

How is a person diagnosed with ASD?

ASD can be difficult to diagnose because there is not one specific medical test (i.e. blood test) that can be used to diagnose it. Generally, a trained specialist will be the one making the diagnosis (i.e. general pediatrician, developmental/behavioral pediatrician, psychologist, etc.) based on an individual’s behavior and development. The process starts with an in-depth look at a person's medical, developmental, and behavioral history. This is used in combination with the diagnostic criteria for ASD and the results of a standardized diagnostic assessment for ASD in order to create a formal, comprehensive evaluation. This evaluation will detail the person's strengths and limitations, as well as whether or not they have met the criteria required to be formally diagnosed with ASD.

Usually, a pediatrician, teacher, parent, etc. will express some level of concern about a child's behavior and development. At this point, a pediatrician may make a referral to a specialist for evaluation. Once the referral has been made, a comprehensive evaluation needs to be completed, which generally includes the use of a standardized evaluation tool, such as the ADOS-2. In some cases (like with us), the pediatrician is trained in diagnostic testing and criteria and can make the diagnosis themselves.

Currently (locally and nationwide), this process takes at least 6-12 months. We are working on changing this and we hope to make the process of autism evaluations significantly easier for children and families.

What is the ADOS-2 evaluation?

The ADOS-2 is considered the "gold standard" of ASD evaluations. It is a validated, standardized assessment tool used by trained providers to aid in making a diagnosis of ASD. It involves a play-based, semi-structured, 45-60 minute assessment which is based on the age and expressive language level of the individual.

This assessment allows for direct observation of social and communication skills, as well as imaginative play. Specific activities and materials are used during the assessment to create structured and unstructured social situations. The provider will then rate both the spontaneous and prompted social interactions, communication, and behaviors that occurred during the ADOS-2. These ratings are used to determine an ADOS-2 Classification, which is used as an important piece of a comprehensive evaluation and overall diagnosis. The ADOS-2 cannot be used alone to make a diagnosis but is a crucial piece of a comprehensive evaluation.

How do I schedule an ADOS-2 evaluation or begin the diagnosis process?

We have tried to make this as easy as possible. The first step is to schedule an initial consultation, which you can do right here on our website by using the calendar scheduling tool on this page. You may also call or text our office line with questions, but scheduling online will often be the fastest and easiest option.

After that initial consultation, if the ADOS-2 appears to be a good fit for your child (or if you want us to handle the diagnostic process and provide a comprehensive clinical writeup), we’ll send a link for you to schedule the actual assessment. It’s that easy. An evaluation can sometimes be done within a few days depending on our availability, and you won’t have to wait months to get the writeup.