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Autism

Early Identification of Autism

The DEPS team evaluates children from 1 year to 16 years of age for Autism Spectrum Disorder, ASD. Our practice prioritizes initial diagnosis of children from 1 to 5 years of age in order to minimize wait times for young children to be evaluated for Autism in order for them to access early intervention services as soon as possible.

What are the reasons to evaluate early?

  • The Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends monitoring, screening, evaluating, and diagnosing children with ASD as early as possible.
  • Early identification of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is essential to ensure children can access specialized evidence-based interventions that optimize long-term outcomes.
  • Empirical data shows that children who receive early and intensive treatment have far better outcomes in cognition, social behaviors, and communication.
  • Intensive therapy early on may encourage the young brain to reroute itself around faulty neural pathways.
  • Many children with ASD are not identified as early as possible and wait until they enter school, resulting in significant delays and missed intervention opportunities.
  • We are able to evaluate your child in one session and provide same-day feedback.
  • A Formal Assessment From A Licensed Psychologist Is Required To Access These Services.

Autism Evaluation Process

At Developmental & Educational Psychological Services (DEPS), we conduct comprehensive evaluations to assess overall development and determine the presence of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). Our assessments utilize the Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule, Second Edition (ADOS-2) and the Autism Diagnostic Interview-Revised (ADI-R)—both recognized as the gold standard for autism evaluations.

Our experienced assessment team consists of certified ADOS-2 administrators who are experts in the identification and diagnosis of autism. The evaluation process is designed to provide families with a clear understanding of their child’s needs and ensure access to appropriate services and interventions.

Families receive verbal feedback on the evaluation results during the appointment, with a comprehensive written report provided within three weeks

What are the Early Signs of Autism in Babies and Toddlers?

  • Doesn’t make eye contact (e.g. look at you when being fed)
  • Doesn’t smile when smiled at
  • Doesn’t respond to his or her name, or to the sound of a familiar voice
  • Doesn’t follow objects visually
  • Doesn’t point or wave goodbye, or use other gestures to communicate
  • Doesn’t follow the gesture when you point things out
  • Doesn’t make noises to get your attention
  • Doesn’t initiate or respond to cuddling
  • Doesn’t imitate your movements and facial expressions
  • Doesn’t reach out to be picked up
  • Doesn’t play with other people or share interest and enjoyment
  • Doesn’t ask for help or make other basic requests
  • The following delays require immediate attention by a psychologist or developmental pediatrician:
    • By 6 months: No big smiles or other warm joyful expressions
    • By 9 months: No back and forth sharing of sounds, smiles, or other facial expressions
    • By 1 year: Lack of response to name
    • By 1 year: No babbling or “baby talk”
    • By 16 months: No spoken words
    • By 24 months: No meaningful two word phrases