Carolina Center for ABA & Autism Treatment is now offering Diagnostic Evaluations

The Carolina Center for ABA & Autism Treatment is proud to announce that they are now offering diagnostic evaluations at any of their clinic locations (Cary, Fayetteville, and Charlotte). Both clinicians available for diagnostic evaluations have completed intensive training in applied behavior analysis as well as completed training at North Carolina TEACCH Center to administer the ADOS. Please call the office at 919-371-2848 to schedule an appointment.

Evaluations offered:

ADOS – Autism Diagnostic Observation Scale

ADI-R – Autism Diagnostic Interview – Revised

 

Evaluators:

Callie Plattner, MS, LPA, BCBA

Katrina Johnson, MA, LPA, BCBA

 

Services Included: Initial parent consultation and interview using the ADI-R, diagnostic evaluation with the child using the ADOS, written evaluation of testing results, and follow-up meeting to discuss treatment options and/or referrals.

Diagnostic Evaluation utilizing the ADOS may be of benefit for children who have already completed the following process:

Screening

A “well child” check-up at the doctor should include a developmental screening test. (This test is conducted to determine if the child is reaching all developmental milestones. If a child’s doctor sees any of the possible indicators of autism as a result of a screening or a “well child checkup,” further evaluation is necessary. In addition, the parents’ own observations and concerns about their child’s development are important in helping to screen a child for autism.

Parent Observation of Warning Signs:

Most often, autism is noticed and diagnosed during childhood; the symptoms can become clear by about age 3. While your child’s pediatrician will perform well-baby and well-child exams to make sure he/she is developing normally, it’s still important to know the warning signs and seek an autism diagnosis if you suspect that your child may meet these criteria.

Basic warning signs for children imbed the link to the other page on the website for signs and symptoms.

Other evaluations should take place to rule out physical problems or health concerns:

 

• A full physical
• A hearing test
• Genetic testing
• A test for lead poisoning
• A neurological exam
• Blood work and other lab tests

Importance of an accurate diagnosis:

The first signs of autism are often noticed before the age of three and early diagnosis is critical. Once an accurate diagnosis is reached, a family can begin researching appropriate treatment options. This is critical, as a number of empirical research studies have showed that children who enter early intervention programs at younger ages may make greater gains than those who enter at a later age (Harris & Handleman, 2000; Sheinkop & Siegel, 1998). The first five years for children are key in their development and growth. If you have the opportunity to intervene therapeutically during this time, it can allow a child to learn new skills at a time when he/she is most able to grasp them. If a diagnosis of autism is found following the diagnostic evaluation, possible treatment options and referrals will be discussed with the family.

For more information, please contact the Carolina Center for ABA & Autism Treatment at 919-371-2848.