Autism Evaluation

Who Should Consider an Autism Evaluation?

An autism evaluation may be helpful if you or your loved one:

  • Struggles with social interactions or making friends

  • Has difficulty understanding social cues, emotions, or nonverbal communication

  • Engages in repetitive behaviors or has highly specific interests

  • Prefers predictable routines and becomes significantly distressed with changes

  • Exhibits sensory sensitivities to sounds, lights, textures, or smells

  • Would benefit from diagnostic clarification to access school accommodations, therapeutic support, or workplace services

Evaluations can also be valuable for individuals who have been previously diagnosed but are seeking an updated understanding of their needs and strengths.

What to Expect

Each autism evaluation is customized to the individual, but generally includes:

  • Clinical Interview: Gathering information about developmental history, behavior patterns, current concerns, and goals.

  • Behavioral Observations: Both structured and naturalistic observations to assess social engagement, communication style, play behavior, and emotional regulation.

  • Standardized Testing: Administration of diagnostic tools such as the MIGDAS-2 and standardized questionnaires for you and others who know you well, along with cognitive and achievement assessments as needed.

  • Feedback Session: A meeting to discuss evaluation results, diagnostic impressions, and personalized recommendations for next steps.

Following the evaluation, a detailed written report is provided, summarizing findings and offering targeted recommendations for interventions, supports, and resources.

Goals of the Evaluation

  • Clarify whether an Autism Spectrum Disorder diagnosis is appropriate

  • Identify individual strengths, talents, and areas for support

  • Provide practical recommendations for therapy, education, and daily living

  • Support access to accommodations, services, or benefits where applicable

  • Help families, educators, and employers better understand how to provide effective support

Our Approach

At Pacific Brain Health and Wellness, we take a collaborative, compassionate approach to evaluation. We recognize the diversity of individuals on the autism spectrum and emphasize a strengths-based, person-centered process.

Our team is committed to providing evaluations that are respectful, empowering, and tailored to each individual's unique needs and goals.

Scheduling an Evaluation

If you are interested in learning more about autism evaluations or would like to schedule an appointment, please contact us.

We are happy to answer any questions about the process and help determine if an evaluation is appropriate for you or your loved one.