ADOS-2 Autism Assessments
Seeking clarity about Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) for yourself or a loved one is a significant and deeply personal step. To provide you with the most supportive and accurate evaluation, our certified specialists use the ADOS-2 (Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule, Second Edition).
Often considered the "gold standard" for autism assessment, the ADOS-2 is less like a traditional medical test and more like a guided observation. Through a series of gentle, engaging activities and conversations, we carefully observe how you or your child communicate, interact socially, and use imagination. This standardized yet approachable method allows our trained professionals to provide objective, clear, and compassionate insights tailored to your unique needs.
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The ADOS-2 can be tailored to the individual needs of children from age 18 months through adulthood.
To qualify for testing, the ADOS-2 requires a minimum developmental level of 12 months and no significant sensory or motor impairments (i.e., blindness, deafness, confined to a wheelchair).
Module selection for each individual depends on language aptitude within any given speech range or level of fluency and accepted norms for their particular age group.
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Depending on a variety of clients' needs, this assessment can be conducted in one or two appointments.
The ADOS-2 typically takes between 45-60 minutes to administer, with the client often meeting an unfamiliar examiner in order to obtain unbiased behavior cues.
For younger clients such as toddlers or children, parental involvement may be necessary—predominantly by observing but occasionally interacting.
For adolescents and adults, the ADOS-2 is generally administered with just the client and attending practitioner present in the room.
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Direct access without physician referral.
Shorter wait times than many traditional evaluation routes.
Cost-effective comprehensive evaluation.
Professional diagnostic report.
Integration with existing healthcare providers if desired.
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What happens after the assessment?
A separate follow-up appointment is typically scheduled 1-2 weeks following the assessment. During this appointment, we will review the results of the ADOS-2, address any questions, discuss further recommendations, and provide a full written report.
How is the final diagnosis made?
As licensed clinical mental health professionals trained and certified in administering the ADOS-2, we integrate these results with additional clinical observations and developmental history to provide diagnostic evaluations. We can coordinate with your existing healthcare team if you choose, ensuring comprehensive support for your ongoing care.
Our Autism Assessment Specialists
Jordan Peterson
MEd, MA, LCMHCA
Emu Aragon
MS, LCMHC, QS, LPC-MHSP, NCC, ACS