Comprehensive Behavioral Diagnostics

Comprehensive Behavioral Diagnostics

If you suspect your child displays autistic signs and symptoms, HealthCall Behavioral Services has several programs for the assessment and diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder for children 16 months through 16 years of age.

Diagnosis for Children and Adolescents

Our clinical team is comprised of board-certified pediatricians, a child psychologist, speech and language pathologists, and family nurse practitioners.  Our assessment methods are efficient and allow for in-depth, individualized assessment and detailed recommendations. All testing occurs in a single day.  Test results, including a formal written diagnostic report, are available within one week of testing.  Our clinicians are skilled in diagnosing learning differences and disabilities as well as other developmental disorders.

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)

ASD is a developmental disability causing a range of social, communication, and behavior changes. The impact and severity of ASD differs for each individual. Scientists do not know yet exactly what causes ASD. Individuals with ASD may also have intellectual or speech impairment, difficulties in communication and attention, and physical health issues. Many people with ASD also have different ways of learning, paying attention, playing, or reacting to things. ASD begins during early childhood and lasts throughout a person’s lifetime.

Just as every individual and family is unique, so are the ways that autism will affect them.  We work with each client and their family members to understand the impact of an ASD diagnosis and match them to a personalized treatment plan to maximize their potential.

The M-CHAT (Modified Checklist for Autism in Toddlers) is a simple form that parents can use to assess the risk of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) in their child.  The M-CHAT can be used for children between 16-30 months of age.  If the M-CHAT is positive the results should be discussed with the child’s doctor or you can contact your insurance company to determine eligibility for more comprehensive autism testing.  It is important to note that the M-CHAT cannot diagnose autism (more testing is needed) and may not detect early signs of autism and developmental delay in all children so, if you have concerns, you should talk to your child’s doctor.