Autism Assessment
Evidence-Based Assessments for Accurate Diagnosis
Clear Diagnosis
ADOS-2 offers a precise diagnosis, reducing uncertainty and enabling timely access to appropriate resources and services.
Personalized Support
Guiding individuals and their families towards tailored support, ensuring their unique needs are met.
Empowered Decisions
With an accurate diagnosis, families and individuals can make informed decisions about therapy, education, and long-term planning.
Understand the Full Picture
Empowering Individuals. Supporting Families.
At VMA Psych, we provide compassionate, comprehensive Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) assessments for all ages. Our trained professionals take a collaborative, neurodiversity-affirming approach, focusing on the full developmental picture to support clients and families throughout the process.
DEFINITION
What Is an Autism Assessment?
At VMA Psych, autism assessments are conducted using benchmark tools and clinical interviews to determine whether an individual meets diagnostic criteria for Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) as outlined in the DSM-5. The assessment process explores social communication, behaviour, sensory processing, and developmental history. Our clinicians also consider gendered or masked presentations of autism, which are commonly seen in girls and high-functioning individuals.
At VMA Psych, we provide more than a diagnosis—we provide understanding, validation, and actionable recommendations to support daily life, learning, and relationships.
Autism Assessments Can Help With:
Confirming or ruling out a diagnosis of ASD
Identifying neurodivergent challenges and strengths
Accessing school-based or government-funded supports
Better understanding of sensory, emotional, or behavioural challenges
Supporting self-awareness and family understanding
Navigating transitions at school, home, or in adulthood
Advocating for accommodations or therapy services
Clarifying complex presentations or comorbidities
How it Works
1
Contact Us: Share concerns and book your appointment.
4
Clinical Testing: ADOS-2 testing and behavioural observations
2
Intake Forms: Complete comprehensive questionnaire forms.
5
Feedback Session: Review results, diagnosis, and insights.
3
Clinical Interview: Discuss symptoms and behavioural history.
6
Next Steps: Receive tailored guidance for a healthier, happier future.
How it Works
1
Contact Us: Share concerns and book your appointment.
2
Intake Forms: Complete comprehensive questionnaire forms.
3
Clinical Interview: Discuss symptoms and behavioural history.
4
Clinical Testing: ADOS-2 testing and behavioural observations
5
Feedback Session: Review results, diagnosis, and insights.
6
Next Steps: Receive tailored guidance for a healthier, happier future.
WHAT TO EXPECT
Respectful, Supportive Environment
A judgment-free space led by skilled clinicians specializing in neurodiversity and developmental assessments.
Comprehensive Diagnostic Process
Use of standardized tools to ensure accurate and thorough evaluation.
Clear Feedback and Support
Receive a detailed report and a complimentary feedback session to discuss findings and next steps.
Is an Autism Assessment Right for You or Your Child?
Consider an assessment if you notice:
Difficulty with social interactions or nonverbal communication
Intense interests or repetitive behaviours
Sensory sensitivities or regulation challenges
Rigid routines or difficulty with transitions
Emotional dysregulation or meltdowns
Delayed speech or unique communication styles
A sense of “feeling different” or misunderstood
Past recommendations to explore an autism diagnosis
We also assess individuals who mask their symptoms, common in females and high-functioning individuals who are often misdiagnosed or overlooked.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you detail the expected length of time for the ADOS-2 assessment at VMA Psych?
The ADOS-2 assessment at VMA Psych is thoughtfully designed to last 2 hours, depending on the individual's unique ability to engage with the test's tasks.
Who is responsible for carrying out the ADOS-2 assessment at VMA Psych, and what qualifications do they hold?
At VMA Psych, the ADOS-2 Test is meticulously administered by our specially trained psychometrists. Our team of licensed psychologists and psychological associates closely supervises these professionals, ensuring high standards of practice.
What steps should I follow to arrange an ADOS-2 assessment at VMA Psych?
Begin by reaching out to VMA Psych directly. Our friendly staff will assist you with the necessary preliminary steps, ensuring a smooth and informed start to the assessment process.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you detail the expected length of time for the ADOS-2 assessment at VMA Psych?
The ADOS-2 assessment at VMA Psych is thoughtfully designed to last 2 hours, depending on the individual's unique ability to engage with the test's tasks.
Who is responsible for carrying out the ADOS-2 assessment at VMA Psych, and what qualifications do they hold?
At VMA Psych, the ADOS-2 Test is meticulously administered by our specially trained psychometrists. Our team of licensed psychologists and psychological associates closely supervises these professionals, ensuring high standards of practice.
What steps should I follow to arrange an ADOS-2 assessment at VMA Psych?
Begin by reaching out to VMA Psych directly. Our friendly staff will assist you with the necessary preliminary steps, ensuring a smooth and informed start to the assessment process.
