Assessment for Autism Spectrum Disorder

Toronto Psychology Centre offers evidence-based assessments for Autism Spectrum Disorder in preschool and school-aged children, adolescents, and adults. Our assessments are conducted by psychologists who have extensive training and experience with Autism Spectrum Disorder in the Ontario School Board.

The number of children identified as having an Autism Spectrum Disorder has increased in recent years. Obtaining a comprehensive evaluation and accurate diagnosis is a critical step in helping your child get the support needed to thrive.

Embarking on the assessment process can seem overwhelming for parents of a child who is experiencing significant developmental delays, including social, behavioral, and communication difficulties.

The importance of early identification and treatment of individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder has been well established. Due to the increase in prevalence and advances in diagnostic measures, more children are being diagnosed at earlier ages which helps facilitate access to the necessary services and supports.

What is Autism Spectrum Disorder?

Autism Spectrum Disorder is a complex neurodevelopment disorder typified by repetitive and restricted patterns of behaviour as well as difficulties with social communication and interaction. The term “spectrum” refers to the fact that children, adolescents, and adults with Autism present with a wide array of symptoms, skills and levels of disability in functioning.

Autism Spectrum Disorder may be present when several of the following concerns occur:

  • Difficulties coping with transitions and/or changes in routine
  • Echoed, scripted, and/or repetitive language
  • Intense and unusual interests
  • Over- or under-sensitivity to sensory input (e.g., textures, noises, smells)
  • Repetitive or out of the ordinary body movements (e.g., spinning, rocking)
  • Social communication skills (e.g., conversation skills, eye contact)
  • Social skills difficulties
  • Understanding and/or expressing emotions

Diagnosing Autism Spectrum Disorder

In order to achieve the most accurate diagnosis, we use the The Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule, Second Edition (ADOS-2), which is considered the gold standard assessment measure for Autism Spectrum Disorder in children and adolescents. It is a semi-structured, standardized assessment that provides a context in which an individual’s communication, social interactions, and other behaviors relevant to Autism Spectrum Disorder are observed. The ADOS-2 is not meant to be used as a standalone measure and the results are always considered within the context of all the clinical information gathered during the assessment. When assessing adults, the ADOS-2 may be used and inform the assessment; however, a more nuanced assessment is needed that involves more in-depth clinical interviewing in order to differentiate from other diagnoses that may present similarly to ASD in adults.

The ADOS-2 is not a cognitive assessment; it is designed to measure atypical development in the areas of communication, social interaction, and use of specific materials. The ADOS-2 provides useful information for parents, teachers, and other care providers, about specific anomalies in social communication that can assist in the development of specialized interventions. The results of the ADOS-2 result in a classification, not a diagnosis by itself. However, the new algorithms line up perfectly with the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5).

The administration of the ADOS-2 alone is often not sufficient to address all concerns regarding behaviour, and therefore additional testing may be recommended in order to complete a full comprehensive psychological assessment. In particular, it is important to consider co-occurring disorders when assessing for an Autism Spectrum Disorder. For example, other disorders sometimes diagnosed alongside Autism Spectrum Disorder may include a Learning Disorder, Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), Tic Disorders (e.g., Tourette’s Disorder) as well as Mood and Anxiety Disorders. Care is taken with each assessment through a comprehensive approach to diagnosis, with an emphasis on clear and targeted recommendations designed to support your child’s needs.

Accommodations for Autism Spectrum Disorder

Individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder can have a wide range of learning needs that are unique to each child. The right accommodations can be helpful in mitigating learning difficulties and overcoming barriers to learning. Accommodations help address a range of issues such as physical, sensory and/or cognitive challenges. Physical challenges may involve limitations with movement or motor skills. Sensory challenges may include vision, hearing, touch, and smell. Cognitive challenges may involve attention, memory, task completion, reading, writing, and spelling.

Examples of different accommodations to support an individual with Autism Spectrum Disorder include:

  • Access to a computer and assistive technology
  • Assistance from a note taker
  • Behavioural support strategies
  • Clearly established and ordered routines
  • Planning and practicing of communication strategies and social routines
  • Planning for transitions
  • Sensory considerations
  • Structured learning environment
  • Use of audio and visual aides
  • Use of a quiet area

Many people with Autism Spectrum Disorder can be successful in school and postsecondary education. Adaptation and accommodation measures are often necessary to support their needs and improve the quality of their lives.

Please contact us to find out more about Assessment for Autism Spectrum Disorder.