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Autism evaluation

An autism evaluation for children, teens and adults. It looks carefully at whether autism explains what you are seeing, and what support will help.

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Is this for you?

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  • Your child communicates, plays or handles change differently than other kids.
  • A teacher or pediatrician suggested an evaluation.
  • You are an adult who has always felt different and wants to understand why.
  • You need an evaluation on paper for school or for services.

What happens

  1. A first conversation

    You meet with a clinician to talk through development, history and what you are seeing. For a child, we talk with the parents.

  2. The evaluation, in person

    Observation, activities, questions and questionnaires, at one of our offices. Come as you are. There are no grades and nothing to pass or fail.

  3. Answers and next steps

    Your clinician explains what they found in plain words. You get a written report you can share with doctors, schools or other providers.

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A Review From a Parent

“

Sent to us in October 2026, after their son’s autism evaluation

We are very grateful for the thoughtful and thorough psychological evaluation our son received. The testing process helped us better understand his strengths, challenges, and needs, and ultimately provided important clarity around his Autism Spectrum Disorder diagnosis.

Just as importantly, the psychologist took the time to explain the findings in a way that was practical and compassionate, and helped us translate the results into meaningful next steps for treatment, school support, and planning for the future. The evaluation gave our family a much clearer path forward, and we truly appreciated the care and professionalism throughout the process.

R.M. (initials changed for privacy)
Cost and insurance

Coverage for testing varies by plan. We are in network with over 25 commercial insurance plans, and with Medi-Cal and Medicare. Call us with your insurance card handy and our team will check your coverage.

Insurance and cost

Who you will see

A few of the clinicians who do this work. Our front office matches you with a clinician who fits, who may be someone not shown here.

Dr. Constance Ortega, PsyDEvaluations for children and adults, including ADHD, autism and learning disorders.Read bio
Dr. Michael Cao, PsyDPediatric neuropsychologist. Evaluations for children, teens and young adults.Read bio
Meet the whole team

Questions

What is autism?
Autism spectrum disorder is a difference in how a person communicates, relates to others and experiences the world. It shows up differently in every person, which is why it is called a spectrum.
What are common autism symptoms in children?
Delayed speech, limited eye contact, strong reactions to sounds or textures, repeated movements, intense interests, and trouble with changes in routine or with back and forth play.
What are common autism symptoms in adults?
Finding social situations confusing or draining, needing routine, sensory sensitivities, deep focus on particular interests, and a lifelong sense of being different. Many adults have learned to hide these signs.
How is autism diagnosed?
There is no single medical test. A clinician gathers developmental history, observes directly and uses standardized tools. They also rule out other explanations for what you are seeing.
What is involved in an autism evaluation?
An interview about history and development, direct observation, standardized activities, and questionnaires for you or for parents and teachers. It ends with a feedback meeting and a written report.
How long does autism testing take?
It depends on age and on the questions being asked. An evaluation may take more than one session. Our front office will tell you what to plan for when you schedule.
When do autism symptoms typically start?
Signs usually appear in early childhood, though they may not be recognized until school age, the teen years or adulthood.
What support helps after a diagnosis?
It depends on the person. Your report includes recommendations made for you. We also run an online therapy group for adults with an autism diagnosis.

Related reading

From our Learn libraryAutism Evaluations for Children: The Process, Step by StepFrom our Learn libraryAutism in Adults: Getting Evaluated Later in LifeFrom our Learn libraryUnderstanding Your Child’s Neuropsychological Evaluation Results
See everything in Learn

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