Specialized Assessment Spotlight: Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) Assessment What is ASD? Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a developmental disorder that involves impairments in social interaction and communication, challenges with sensory processing, and repetitive behaviors. The term "spectrum" reflects the fact that symptoms vary in type and severity. There are various benefits of early diagnosis and treatment! The earlier the disorder is diagnosed, the sooner a child can be helped through treatment interventions. Diagnosis is ideal when made by the age of 2. Understanding the ASD Assessment We perform a complete assessment of cognitive, social and emotional development using modern standardized instruments. As part of a comprehensive evaluation, we use the Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule - Second Edition (ADOS-2 - currently considered the “gold standard” in the assessment of ASD), which is an activity-based assessment administered by trained clinicians to evaluate communication skills, social interaction and imaginative use of materials in individuals who are suspected to have ASD. The ADOS-2 is designed for individuals as young as 12 months of age all the way through adulthood. Other components include an interview with the individual and a parent or significant other with an experienced clinician to gather information about the individual’s birth, medical and developmental history and current symptoms and concerns. Additional testing might be required as well, depending on the nature of the concerns identified. Duration of the ASD Assessment Depending on complexity, ASD Assessment can take from eight to 16 hours to complete.