Your Guide to Autism Evaluation

What is an Autism Evaluation?

Autism evaluations are in-depth assessments carried out by qualified healthcare professionals aimed at determining an individual's placement on the autism spectrum. This comprehensive process includes a blend of interviews, observational studies, and, in certain cases, standardized testing, ensuring a holistic understanding of each individual’s unique profile. Performed by a team of specialists, including developmental pediatricians, psychologists, and neurologists, these evaluations are crucial for crafting personalized support and intervention strategies, designed to meet the specific needs of each person

Why Consider an Evaluation?

Securing an accurate diagnosis with an autism evaluation can unlock a world of personalized educational strategies, specialized therapeutic interventions, and invaluable community support. This pivotal step can dramatically enhance the quality of life for both your child and your entire family, paving the way for a future filled with greater understanding, support, and growth.

Finding the Right Evaluation for Your Family

Local Providers

  • Provider's Name: Peachtree Pediatric Psychology
  • Provider's Name: North Metro Psychological Services
    • Services Offered: Psychological Evaluations for Autism, ADHD, and Learning Disabilities. They also offer individual and couples counseling.
    • Age Range Served: Ages 2 to adults and seniors.
    • Address: 800 Kennesaw Avenue, Suite 250 Marietta, GA 30060
    • Email: [email protected]
    • Phone Number: 770-485-3224
    • Website: www.northmetropsych.com
    • Preferred Method of Referral: https://www.northmetropsych.com/contact-us OR [email protected]
    • Wait Time: Evaluations approximately 3 - 6 weeks, Counseling varied but typically ASAP or within 2 weeks depending on client availability
    • Accepted Insurance: None. North Metro Psychological Services is private pay only. However, they can provide a superbill for insurance reimbursement.
    • Additional requirements for referral:
      No doctor's referral is required to schedule an appointment. They reported that the best way for clients to reach out is through their website or by email.
  • Provider's Name: Children's Autism Assessment Center
    • Services Offered: ASD assessments, PDA profile and female phenotype awareness
    • Age Range Served: All ages
    • Address: 6667 Vernon Woods Drive NE, Suite A-20, Sandy Springs GA 30328
    • Phone: 404-390-1322, 
    • Fax: 404-835-0001
    • Email: [email protected]
    • Website: https://www.childrensautismassessmentcenter.com
    • Preferred Method of Referral (if any): Fax preferred, but no referral is required
    • Wait Time: No waitlist, currently accepting new patients for October 2024.
    • Accepted Insurance: Blue Cross, UnitedHealthcare (no UMR), Caresource, Peach State (no Ambetter), and GA Medicaid (no Amerigroup)
    • Any other relevant information or requirements for referral? Self-pay rate available for those without insurance. We are Tricare Certified (though not in-network).
  • Provider's Name: Intown Pediatric Behavioral Wellness
    • Services Offered: 3 Types of Psychological Evaluations:
      • 1) Initial Diagnosis/ First Time Psychological Evaluations (Dr. Poulos evaluates children 0-5 yrs and Dr.Alrafati evaluates children 0-7 yrs): Dr. Poulos and Dr. Alrafati are ​currently committed for new patients requesting first time comprehensive psychological evaluations to determine their child's possible diagnosis through August 2023.
        • Scheduling for September-December 2024 appointments on August 14, 2024, at 9am. At that time, please call (404) 476-3535 and leave one message with your child's name, age, and insurance provider. All calls will go directly to the voicemail and are returned in the order received; therefore, please leave only one message.
      • 2) Updated Autism Evaluations (children of all ages with a current ASD diagnosis): If your child already has a diagnosis of autism and you are seeking the Medicaid update required for ABA therapy/insurance, please call to request a “CARS/GARS Plus Evaluation” appointment and we can typically accommodate you within 4 weeks. During these evaluations, we can also assess for additional co-morbidities, such as ADHD, in conjunction with ASD.
      • 3) Katie Beckett/Deeming Waiver (KBDW), State Waivers, SSI, and NOW Comp Waiver Evaluations (Dr. Poulos evaluates for 0-18 years of age): These evaluations are reserved for patients who have been specifically referred to a waiver program. Typically, these patients have a current developmental or medical disability, and they are seeking to obtain additional insurance coverage in conjunction with their private insurance plan.
    • Age Range Served: 0-7 years of age for children with no diagnosis and requiring an initial diagnosis. 0-20 years of age for patients seeking an updated autism evaluation or a Katie Beckett Deeming Waiver Evaluation.
    • Address: 315 Boulevard NE Suite 520, Atlanta, GA 30312.
    • Phone: 404-476-3535
    • Fax: 404-254-4263
    • Email: [email protected]
    • Website: www.IntownWellness.org
    • Preferred Method of Referral (if any): No specific preferred method
    • Wait Time: Please see wait times above in the "services offered" as there are differing times based on evaluation type.
    • Accepted Insurance: Intown Pediatric Behavioral Wellness accepts All Medicaid Plans (i.e., SSI Medicaid, Katie Beckett Medicaid, PeachState, Caresource, Amerigroup), Blue Cross Blue Shield, Anthem, Aetna, UMR, United Healthcare, Cigna. Private pay rates for psychological assessment can be discussed based on each individual patient profile and may range from $650- $1,500. Furthermore, it is important to note that educational assessment is not covered by insurance.
    • Any other relevant information or requirements for referral?
      • Jennifer L. Poulos, Psy.D.
      • Licensed Pediatric Psychologist
      • Owner and Director of Clinical Services
      • Intown Pediatric Behavioral Wellness, LLC.

Downloadable List  

Online Evaluation Options

  1. Glow Pediatrics 
  2. As You Are 

After the Evaluation: Understanding and Next Steps

Once you've navigated the evaluation process and have a clearer understanding of your child's needs, it's time to look ahead. Whether your child has been diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) or if you're exploring ways to support their unique development, the journey forward is filled with opportunities for growth and learning.

Understanding the Results

Receiving an autism evaluation report can bring a mix of emotions and questions. It's important to review the findings with the evaluating team, who can explain the outcomes and what they mean for your child. Remember, a diagnosis is not just a label but a key that unlocks tailored support and interventions.

Next Steps for Your Family

  1. Explore ABA Therapy: Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) is a leading, research-backed approach proven to improve social, communication, and learning skills through positive reinforcement. As an ABA and behavioral health agency, we specialize in creating customized ABA therapy programs tailored to each child's unique needs and strengths.
  2. Schedule a Consultation: Understanding your child’s new diagnosis can be overwhelming, but you don't have to navigate this journey alone. Contact us for a free consultation. Our team of compassionate and certified ABA providers is here to guide you through the process, answer your questions, and discuss how our programs can benefit your child.
  3. Connect with Community Resources: Besides ABA therapy, many additional resources and supports are available for your family. From educational planning to support groups, our team can help connect you with the resources that will support your family best.
  4. Join Supportive Networks: Engaging with communities of other families navigating similar journeys can be incredibly beneficial. We offer access to support groups and workshops that not only provide emotional support but also practical advice and shared experiences.
  5. Continuous Learning and Development: Our services extend beyond initial therapy. We offer ongoing support and training for families, ensuring that the positive impacts of ABA therapy are maximized at home and in other settings.

Your Partner in Growth

At Respect Behavior Therapy, we believe in the potential of every child. With our dedicated team and customized ABA therapy programs, we're committed to supporting your child's growth and development every step of the way. Reach out to us to learn more about how we can support your family’s journey toward a bright and fulfilling future.

Empowering Families: Navigating Financial Solutions for ABA Therapy

Recognizing the financial considerations associated with ABA therapy, we are committed to supporting families in accessing the care their children need without undue stress. To ease this aspect of your journey, we've meticulously curated a comprehensive list of resources aimed at providing financial assistance for ABA therapy services. Below, you'll find links to various programs designed to offer support.

We understand navigating financial options can be as complex as it is critical. Therefore, we're not just here to guide you through the therapeutic aspects of your child's development; our team is also on standby to assist with exploring financial pathways that make ABA therapy accessible for your family. Should you have any questions or require further assistance in understanding these resources, please do not hesitate to reach out. Our goal is to ensure that every family has the opportunity to benefit from our services, making financial concerns one less obstacle on your journey to support your child's growth and development.

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