+ What is Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)?

Autism is a developmental disability that causes difficulties in social interactions and repetitive behaviors. Individuals with autism may have trouble making friendships, make inconsistent eye contact, miss social cues, have flat facial expressions, or speak in a particular tone. Intense interests, sensory sensitivities (bright lights, loud noises, textures), and behavioral problems are also common symptoms. There is a wide range of functioning on the autism spectrum, and each child or individual is unique.

+ What about Asperger’s?

Asperger’s Syndrome is a term that was previously used to describe individuals on the autism spectrum who did not have difficulties with language development. Asperger’s was also used to describe people who were “higher-functioning,” meaning that they were more successful academically or socially and had average or higher intelligence. Asperger’s was taken out of the DSM-5 (the manual that psychologists use for diagnosis) in 2013 because research showed that it was a less severe manifestation of autism, but not a distinctly separate condition. Some people still use the word “Asperger’s” or “Aspie” to describe themselves.

+ How is autism diagnosed?

Autism is usually diagnosed by developmental pediatricians and clinical psychologists, using questionnaires, clinical interviews, and structured assessments. Observing your child in class, talking to teachers or other adults who work with your child, and assessing your child’s social skills and behavior during testing help to provide a clear picture of your child across settings.

The Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule (ADOS-2) and the Autism Diagnostic Interview (ADI-R) are considered the “gold-standard” for autism assessment. During the ADOS-2, the clinician will initiate a variety of activities with your child and score your child’s responses. These responses are coded and placed into a diagnostic algorithm, which helps clarify diagnosis. The ADI-R is an interview with parents that goes through a detailed history of your child’s behavior and social development. Responses are again coded and placed in a diagnostic algorithm. Particularly if both assessments show clinically significant symptoms of autism, we can be more confident in diagnosis. No test should be interpreted in isolation, which is why we do a comprehensive assessment to look at many aspects of your child’s thinking and behavior.

+ What causes ASD?

We do not yet know what causes autism spectrum disorders. However, like most mental health conditions, both genes and the environment impact your child’s functioning.

+ How is autism treated after an ASD test?

Autism is a life-long condition, but many interventions can help individuals reach their potential. ABA therapy is commonly used in younger kids to teach social skills and routines. For some kids, social-skills groups help them learn how to interpret social cues and monitor their own behavior. As kids progress into adolescence and adulthood, therapy can also help people on the spectrum navigate social situations or cope with depression and anxiety that may arise. We’ll create a treatment plan that works for your child and family as part of the assessment process.

+ How can a neuropsychological assessment help?

A primary goal of an assessment is to provide you with a clear diagnosis. Knowing whether or not your child is on the autism spectrum is the first step to effectively supporting them. Beyond diagnosis, the neuropsychological assessments in my practice will highlight your child’s strengths and develop recommendations that are specific to their needs. This plan can be used to help guide an IEP, 504 plan, or independent learning plan, as well as to connect with the right support outside of school.

+ Where do your Austism Spectrum Tests in Palo Alto take place?

My office is located at 630 University Avenue, Suite A, Palo Alto, California 94301. I serve Palo Alto and the surrounding areas between San Francisco and San Jose—including San Mateo, Redwood City, Mountain View, Sunnyvale, Menlo Park and Los Altos.