Questions to Ask During the Autism Evaluation Process

When seeking an autism evaluation for your child, it’s essential to be well-prepared. Asking the right questions during the autism evaluation process can help you better understand your child’s behaviors, needs, and available interventions. Not only will this ensure your confidence in the evaluation, but it will also provide you have all the necessary information to support your child’s development.

7 Questions to Ask During an Autism Evaluation

As you prepare for this important step, asking the right questions can make all the difference in ensuring a thorough and supportive assessment process. From uncovering the evaluator’s expertise to understanding the tools and methods they’ll use, each question plays a crucial role in guiding you through this pivotal moment.

1. How Long Have You Been Conducting Autism Evaluations?

It’s important to know the qualifications and experience of the person conducting the evaluation. Inquire about their credentials, such as their training in facilitating autism assessments and their experience working with children on the spectrum. This will help you gauge their expertise and ease any worries you may have about the evaluation and its results.

2. What Autism Assessment Tools and Methods Will Be Used During the Evaluation?

Different assessment tools and techniques are available for diagnosing autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Ask about the specific assessments the evaluator plans to use. Common tools include the Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule (ADOS) and the Autism Diagnostic Interview-Revised (ADI-R). A comprehensive evaluation should include more than one assessment tool. It may also be helpful to explain to your child what they can expect before or at the beginning of their assessment.

3. How Long Will the Autism Evaluation Take?

Understanding the timeline for the evaluation is essential for planning and making necessary arrangements. While some autism assessments can take place in one day, some evaluators require multiple sessions. Ask the evaluator about the expected duration of the evaluation process, including the number of sessions required. This will help you schedule appointments and manage your child’s expectations during the evaluation period.

4. How Will the Evaluation Results Be Communicated?

Find out how the evaluation results will be communicated to you. Ask if there will be a separate meeting to discuss the evaluator’s findings or if they will be sending a detailed report. Understanding how the results will be conveyed allows you to prepare yourself and ensures you have a clear understanding of your child’s diagnosis and any recommendations for intervention. Be sure to also ask about the timeframe for delivering the results of the assessment.

5. Should I Discuss the Diagnosis With My Child?

Deciding whether or not to discuss the diagnosis with your child is a personal decision that depends on various factors, such as their age, level of understanding, and individual needs. Ask your evaluator how the conversation should be facilitated after the assessment so the information is tailored in a way that is age-appropriate and easy for them to comprehend. Discussing the diagnosis can help your child gain a better understanding of themselves and foster a sense of acceptance.

6. What Therapies and Resources Do You Recommend for Autism?

When it comes to recommending therapies and resources for autism, your evaluator will consider the individual needs and strengths of each child. Depending on the severity of your child’s autism they may recommend only Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy or a combination of multiple therapies like speech and occupational therapy. Also, ask if educational support like specialized classes will be necessary. Lastly, be sure to inquire about how these services will benefit your child and how long they think your child will need them.

7. How Will an Autism Diagnosis Impact My Child’s Life?

Receiving an autism diagnosis can have a significant impact on your child’s life, but it’s important to remember that each individual’s experience is unique. Ask your evaluator about how this diagnosis will impact your child throughout their childhood and teenage years. This will help you and other family members know what to expect and how you can foster a supportive environment at home. Be sure to also ask what modifications may need to occur at school so you can discuss them with your child’s administration and/or teachers.

Seeking ABA After an Autism Evaluation

After your child receives an autism diagnosis, you may want to consider starting ABA therapy. ABA is a well-established, evidence-based treatment for autism that focuses on improving specific behaviors and skills. Here’s what you need to know:

 

• Understanding ABA Therapy: ABA therapy uses principles of learning and behavior to bring about meaningful changes in behavior. It is tailored to the individual needs of each child and can address a wide range of skills, including communication, social skills, self-care, and academic skills.
• Choosing the Right ABA Provider: Selecting an ABA provider is a crucial step in ensuring your child receives the best possible care. Look for providers with board-certified behavior analysts (BCBAs) who have experience working with children on the autism spectrum. Ask about their approach, the involvement of family in the therapy process, and how progress will be measured and reported.
• Integrating ABA with Other Therapies: Depending on your child’s needs, ABA therapy may be used alongside other therapies, such as speech therapy, occupational therapy, or social skills groups. Coordination between these therapies can provide a comprehensive approach to addressing your child’s unique challenges and promoting their development.
• Setting Goals and Measuring Progress: Work with your ABA provider to set clear, achievable goals for your child’s therapy. These goals should be specific, measurable, and tailored to your child’s strengths and needs. Regular progress reports and assessments will help you track your child’s improvements and adjust the therapy plan as needed.
• Involvement of Family and Caregivers: Family and caregiver involvement is essential for the success of ABA therapy. Your ABA provider should offer support to help you implement strategies at home and reinforce the skills your child is learning in therapy. Consistent reinforcement in different settings can enhance the effectiveness of ABA interventions.

Get Started with ABA Therapy After an Autism Evaluation

Ready to take the next step in supporting your child’s development? Get started with ABA therapy services after an autism evaluation at Empower Behavioral Health. Our experienced team is dedicated to providing personalized, evidence-based therapy tailored to your child’s unique needs. With our support, your child can achieve meaningful progress and thrive. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and learn more about how ABA therapy can make a positive impact on your child’s life.