ADOS Assessment/Diagnosis Process

Service Description

If you're a parent who suspects your child may have Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) but haven't yet received a formal diagnosis, the Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule (ADOS) can be an essential next step in your journey. Widely recognized as the gold standard in autism assessments, the ADOS provides a clear, research-backed way to better understand your child’s behaviors, strengths, and needs. The ADOS is a standardized, play-based assessment tool used by trained professionals to evaluate communication, social interaction, and behavior patterns associated with autism. It is designed to be flexible and age-appropriate, making it suitable for children as young as 12 months, all the way to adulthood. How Does the ADOS Work? The assessment is conducted in a one-on-one setting with one of our board-certified clinicians, and usually takes between 30 - 60 minutes. It involves a series of interactive activities, including: - Pretend play and storytelling - Simple tasks and games - Conversations and structured prompts These activities are tailored to your child’s language level and age and are carefully designed to encourage your child to communicate, respond socially, and demonstrate how they interact with others. Throughout the process, the clinician observes and scores specific behaviors—like eye contact, use of gestures, shared enjoyment, ability to take turns, and how your child initiates or responds to social interaction. Why the ADOS is the Best Step Forward: ✅ Scientifically Validated: The ADOS has been developed and refined through years of clinical research and is trusted worldwide. ✅ Highly Accurate: It offers a reliable way to evaluate autism-related behaviors, reducing the risk of misdiagnosis. ✅ Early Identification = Early Intervention: Diagnosing ASD early allows your child to access critical therapies and support services sooner, which can significantly improve developmental outcomes. ✅ Objective & Comprehensive: Combined with parent interviews and developmental history, the ADOS gives a complete picture of your child’s social and communication profile. ✅ Peace of Mind for Families: Whether the outcome confirms autism or rules it out, the ADOS provides clarity and helps guide the next steps for care, therapy, and education planning. Getting a diagnosis can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to do it alone. The ADOS offers a compassionate, science-backed way to understand your child and access the resources they need to thrive.