What is Autism?
Autism is a general term for a group of complex disorders of brain development. These disorders are characterized, in varying degrees, by difficulties in social interaction, verbal and nonverbal communications and repetitive behaviors. Autism can be associated with intellectual disability, difficulties in motor coordination and attention as well as physical health issues.
Autism Assessment Services for Children and Adults
Our team assesses children ages 2 years through adulthood to determine if they have autism spectrum disorder or another condition that affects communication and learning. If we diagnose your child with autism, our staff will help connect you with treatment and support in the community.
Getting Started
To get started, contact the Oakwood Specialty Clinic at 606.677.4068 extension 1541. You will be sent questionnaires and other paperwork to complete from home. You will be asked to provide records from school, previous counselors, and medical/therapeutic services. Send the information back and your appointments will be scheduled.
For Children:
The First appointment takes one to two hours and involves an extensive interview with the parent/guardian. A member of our psychology team will ask you about difficulties your child is having at home and at school, services they are receiving, and their medical and developmental history.
The Second appointment ranges in time from one to three hours and involves direct testing using the Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule along with other tests such as cognitive and achievement tests. For younger children, the parent/guardian participates and for older children the parent/guardian remains in the waiting area. During the tests, a provider will interact with your child while they play and do tasks. The provider will be watching for signs of autism.
The Third appointment is an exam by our team pediatrician followed by assessment results and feedback from the pediatrician and the team psychologist. The parent/guardian attends the session with their child.
For Adults:
Depending on the extent of testing required, adults may complete the process in two sessions.
The first appointment consists of a structured interview following up on the information provided through the intake forms completed at home. Adults will be asked about their developmental histories and other issues or concerns starting in childhood, so it is often helpful to talk with parents or bring a trusted family member to the assessment sessions. The first appointment will also consist of additional tests conducted by a team psychologist designed to explore behavior associated with autism spectrum disorder. This appointment will last 2-4 hours.
If a second appointment is needed, additional testing for cognitive and learning issues may be conducted.
The final appointment will last approximately an hour, assessment results are provided, and recommendations are shared.
We look forward to working with you!
