Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) Assessment
Autism Spectrum Disorder Assessments are conducted when there is question of whether an individual may exhibit developmental differences consistent with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). ASD is a common and complex neurodevelopmental disorder with considerable variation in symptoms. The term “spectrum” refers to a continuum of severity or developmental impairment. Although autistic individuals have developmental differences in communication and social functioning, and behavioural characteristics in common, the spectrum includes a wide range of clinical presentations, with individual differences in a variety of areas, such as: number and types of symptoms, severity (from mild to severe), age at diagnosis, levels of intellectual functioning, language abilities, and challenges with social interaction and communication.
What do we do and what does the assessment consist of?
We offer different testing options specific to ASD, depending on age of the individual and areas of challenge:
- Preschool Assessment – Consist of one-on-one testing with the preschooler (typically a half-day), parent interview, preschool/daycare telephone interview or observation (as appropriate), consultation with other professionals (e.g., early intervention, speech language pathologists, etc.). This assessment typically includes a basic assessment of intellectual and language abilities, basic academic skills and school readiness, and adaptive and behavioural functioning.
- School-age Assessment – Two testing routes are available: (1) Diagnostic Assessment (appropriate for students who have recently undergone psychoeducational assessment) and (2) Diagnostic/Psychoeducational Assessment. These assessments consist of one-on-one testing with the student, parent interview, and consultation with educators and other professionals (as appropriate). The Diagnostic/Psychoeducational option assessment also involves a comprehensive psychoeducational assessment to assist in best understanding the student’s unique learning and behavioural profile.
- Adult Assessment – Adult ASD assessments involve separate interviews with the client and spouse, parent, or sibling. Both the client and someone who knows them well will be asked to complete a variety of questionnaires. Any previous psychological reports will also be reviewed. The information will be summarized in a report that includes recommendations that are specific to the client’s goals.
Once strengths and needs are identified (including relevant diagnoses), we work to inform, educate, advocate for appropriate supports and interventions for the autistic individual and their family.
We pride ourselves on the quality and comprehensiveness of our assessments and reports.
Following assessment, we offer a range of intervention options for individuals and families with ASD.