Psychological Testing · Autism
Autism assessment, to understand and be understood.
If you, a caregiver or a teacher have noticed differences in communication, friendships or flexibility, an autism assessment can bring clarity. Understanding how someone's mind works is the first step toward the right support.
We assess at every age, from as young as 18 months to adulthood, using the ADOS-2 and a careful developmental interview. Assessment is available in Mandarin as needed.
- For
- 18 months to adults
- Toddlers, children, teens and adults
- Time
- 2 to 3 hours
- Usually in person, plus questionnaires at home
- Results
- About 2 weeks
- After testing or questionnaires, whichever is later
- Fee
- $3,000
- Up to $5,500 with other questions, such as ADHD
When an autism assessment can help
Every person is different. You may have noticed some of these at home, at school or with friends:
Following along in a group
Finding it hard to keep up with directions given to a whole class or group.
Making friends
Wanting connection, but finding friendships hard to start or keep.
Big feelings
Intense outbursts, or pulling away, when things become too much.
Communication
Conversations, gestures or back-and-forth that don't come easily.
Flexibility
Changes in routine or plans that feel very hard to handle.
Social situations
Everyday social rules that feel confusing or unclear.
How it works
A careful, friendly process, adapted to age and comfort.
- A free phone callTell us what you've noticed. We'll help you choose the right assessment and talk through the cost.
- Developmental interviewA conversation with parents or caregivers about development and daily life. Past records and teacher feedback help too.
- Testing with the ADOS-2A structured, activity-based observation. The in-person testing usually takes 2 to 3 hours.
- QuestionnairesOn adaptive, emotional and behavioral functioning, emailed to you to complete when it suits you.
- Feedback and reportWe explain the results and any diagnosis, highlight your strengths, and give you a written report with personalized recommendations.
Our testing psychologists
Licensed psychologists who focus on assessment. Several also speak Mandarin.
See all testing psychologistsQuestions about autism assessment
Something else on your mind? Our FAQ covers much more, and our care team is always happy to talk it through.
How young can a child be assessed?
We assess for autism at all ages, from as young as 18 months through the teen years and adulthood.
What is the ADOS-2?
The Autism Diagnostic Observation System, Second Edition, is a widely used, standardized way to observe communication, social interaction, play and everyday behavior. It's activity-based, and for young children much of it feels like play.
How much does it cost?
An autism evaluation with no other diagnostic questions is $3,000. If there are other concerns, such as ADHD or a specific learning disorder, we can tailor testing for an overall fee of up to $5,500. The fee covers testing, interpretation, the feedback session and the report.
Can the assessment be done in Mandarin?
Yes. Autism assessment is available in Mandarin as needed. Let us know in your first call, and we'll plan around it.
Will insurance cover the assessment?
We aren't in network with insurance plans for assessments, so the fee is paid out of pocket. We can give you a superbill to ask your plan for reimbursement, and some plans require pre-authorization first. HSA and FSA cards are accepted. If you have Kaiser, you'll need an external referral from Kaiser for psychological assessment, or Kaiser won't reimburse the fee.
What happens after the assessment?
In your feedback session, we explain the results and any diagnosis, talk through where support would help, and point out your strengths. Your written report includes personalized recommendations you can share with your doctor or school. If therapy or a medication consultation could help next, our care team can connect you with a clinician here.
Ready when you are.
Reach out for a free phone consultation. We'll answer your questions and help you choose the right assessment, and we can usually schedule within one month.
