The listings below are providers who specialize in working with children. You will want to contact their offices to determine if they accept insurance, only offer private pay options and/or have a sliding scale for services. Sometimes participating in research studies can help you receive a formal diagnostic evaluation.

It’s important to ask the provider you select about their evaluation process. Does the process involve one or several appointments? Are assessments done in-person, virtually or both? Will you receive a formalized report of your evaluation? The more information you have, the more at ease you will feel going into your appointment.

As you prepare for your appointment, consider writing down notes to help you prepare. Write down any key points, concerns or autistic traits you have noticed that you want to discuss with the provider and don’t feel embarrassed or hesitate to share your experience. You also don’t need to apologize if you become overwhelmed or flustered. Remember, the provider is there to accurately assess your child and determine the correct diagnosis.

As a parent or caregiver seeking a diagnosis for their child, it’s important to remember that your child is still the same amazing child that they were before they got their diagnosis. We often fear the unknown, which can be especially true after getting a diagnosis for your child. It’s vital to know that where your child is at developmentally at the time of a diagnosis, does not dictate their future. The best thing you can do is accept your child’s diagnosis and educate yourself. You are your child’s biggest advocate.

Things to consider:

• Getting a formal diagnosis is required for receiving state services like DDD/ALTCS.

• The wait time may be several months for a diagnostic evaluations. Go ahead and book an appointment but also ask the provider if they have a waitlist so that you can be seen sooner if someone else cancels!