Autism Spectrum Disorder Assessment

Early Identification and Support

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) affects individuals in unique ways, influencing communication, social interactions, and behavior. Early diagnosis is key to accessing timely interventions that improve long-term outcomes. At Clarke Psychological Services, we provide expert assessments to help individuals and families navigate their ASD journey with clarity and confidence.

What is Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)?

ASD is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by challenges in social communication and interaction, alongside restricted, repetitive patterns of behavior, interests, or activities.

ASD manifests differently across individuals. For example, a person may excel in social communication while displaying challenges with repetitive behaviors or intense interests that impact daily functioning.

It is essential to remember that isolated behaviors—like lining up objects, using gestures instead of words, or showing intense emotional reactions—don’t necessarily indicate ASD. These features might also reflect other conditions, such as intellectual disabilities or ADHD. If concerned about a child’s behavior, an assessment provides diagnostic clarification and direction for suitable interventions.

Benefits of Identifying Autism Spectrum Disorder

Early diagnosis facilitates timely intervention and access to services such as speech therapy, occupational therapy, social skills training, and tailored educational supports. Research consistently shows that early intervention leads to better long-term outcomes in learning, behavior, social, and emotional development compared to late diagnosis.

In Alberta, individuals diagnosed with ASD can access Family Support for Children with Disabilities (FSCD), which provides services like counseling, early intervention programs, and professional support, while also assisting with costs for medications and medical needs.

A confirmed diagnosis of ASD enables enrollment in specialized educational programs tailored to meet the unique needs of individuals with ASD, often inaccessible without the diagnosis.

Understanding that ASD is present offers precision and guidance for individuals and their caregivers, fostering access to appropriate services and support networks that promote growth and development.

A confirmed diagnosis of ASD can provide eligibility for disability funding and tax relief, such as the Disability Tax Credit (DTC).

At Clarke Psychological Services, psychologists offer ASD assessments with significantly shorter wait times compared to hospital programs in Alberta, where wait times can extend to two years.

Common Characteristics of ASD

Social Communication and Interaction Difficulties:

  • Limited reciprocity in social/emotional exchanges.
  • Atypical social approaches and reduced back-and-forth conversation.
  • Minimal sharing of interests and emotions.
  • Restricted affect or withdrawal from social interactions.
  • Difficulty with gestures, facial expressions, or body language.
  • Challenges in developing and maintaining relationships, imaginative play, and peer interactions.

Restricted and Repetitive Behaviors:

  • Repetitive motor movements, object use, or speech (e.g., echolalia or lining up objects).
  • Insistence on routines or ritualized behaviors and resistance to change.
  • Highly fixated interests with unusual intensity.
  • Sensory sensitivities, such as adverse responses to textures or fascination with lights.

Symptoms typically emerge in early childhood and significantly impair functioning. They cannot be better explained by intellectual or other developmental delays.

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How is ASD Assessed?

Psychologists at Clarke Psychological Services use a combination of clinical interviews, observations, and tools like the Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule (ADOS-2).

Assessments for younger children involve play-based activities to observe social interactions and behaviors, while verbal interviews explore relationship patterns, perception of emotion and relationship depth, and behaviors in adolescents and adults.

ASD diagnoses are available for individuals of all ages, from nonverbal toddlers to verbal adolescents and adults.

Assessment and Resources:

The Glenrose Rehabilitation Hospital’s School-Age Neurodevelopmental Assessment and Outreach Clinic (SNAC) offers comprehensive evaluations involving speech therapists, occupational therapists, and developmental pediatricians. Eligibility criteria include:

  • Age 6 to 18.
  • Prior assessments by community professionals recommending ASD evaluation.
  • Referral for mental health services or a physician’s letter querying ASD.

Other professionals qualified to diagnose ASD include developmental pediatricians, psychiatrists, and psychologists with specialized training.

For more information, visit: Alberta Health Services – Glenrose

Take the Next Step – Book Your ASD Assessment Today

At Clarke Psychological Services, we understand that timely assessments can make a world of difference. If you or a loved one are experiencing signs of ASD, don’t wait years for an evaluation. Our expert team offers comprehensive ASD assessments with significantly shorter wait times, helping you access crucial support sooner.

Early diagnosis opens the door to personalized support, education, and financial assistance. Let us help you take the next step towards understanding and growth.

Contact us today to schedule your assessment

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