An Autism evaluation in my practice includes assessments of cognition, social-emotional perceptions and skills, as well as adaptive behaviors. Although in some cases a doctor can diagnose Autism based on clear symptoms observed and input from a parent, I typically recommend a comprehensive assessment to obtain a clearer picture of the individual’s skills and needs.
Recommendations are then tailored to the individual’s unique learning profile and needs. For these evaluations, I generally suggest a Psycho-Educational Assessment, unless there's a need to “rule out” other educationally-related conditions. In such cases, a Pediatric Neuro-Cognitive Assessment might be more appropriate.
Autism Warning Signs
In my professional experience, warning signs of Autism include difficulty in social-emotional understanding and adaptive behaviors. The individual may struggle with awareness of emotions, perceptions of others, learning routines, attention, executive functions, reading comprehension, and/or writing.
Most people with Autism tend to be less social than their peers, though a small percentage might be “overly” sociable, lacking certain understandings that affect conversations and relationships.
When/Why Is This Evaluation Performed?
This evaluation is crucial to obtain necessary services and support, understand the individual’s learning profile and related needs, and acquire specific recommendations for growth.
Each person is unique, and no two individuals with Autism, or any other disability, are exactly alike. Therefore, a comprehensive assessment is instrumental in determining if the person has a learning-related need or diagnosis.
The concept of “neuroplasticity”, which refers to the brain's ability to form and strengthen neuronal connections, suggests that individuals with Autism can typically make significant gains with appropriate interventions. A comprehensive assessment is pivotal in identifying the types of interventions required.
How Does the Evaluation Take Place? What Should I Expect? What Should I Expect After the Assessment?
The individual or parent can choose between a Psycho-Educational Assessment or a Pediatric Neuro-Cognitive (aka “School Neuro-Psych”) Evaluation.
In my role, I guide the decision-making process regarding the recommended type of evaluation. If the examinee is a child, I adhere to standard practices focusing on child safety, detailed in the section of this blog dedicated to child safety.
I offer these assessments and other related services out of my professional office located in Roseville, California. As a Licensed Educational Psychologist in the State of California, my practice is dedicated to providing insightful and comprehensive assessments and services to support the educational and developmental needs of my clients.