AUTISM ASSESSMENT

AUTISM ASSESSMENT SERVICE DESCRIPTION​

 

The assessment of autism spectrum conditions is a complex, comprehensive process that includes observing, inquiring about, and understanding the social communication skills and preferences of the client, their relationship successes and struggles, sensory interests and aversions, routines and repetitive patterns of behavior, and areas of intense, passionate interest.  It also requires assessing for the presence of other conditions and disorders that have overlapping characteristics with autism, including ADHD, social anxiety and OCD. 

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​AUTISM TESTING PROCESS

 

Dr. Vernon's autism assessment process is tailored to the needs of each individual or family, but typically includes a combination of (a) in-person testing with the person being assessed, (b) interview-based assessment (either in-person, online, or over the phone) conducted with a parent, caregiver, family member, or partner, (c) a number of questionnaire/survey measures, and (d) a review of an intake packet summarizing developmental information and current challenges.

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The standardized assessments used in this evaluation include interactive activities, paper-and-pencil tasks, visual puzzles, question-and-answer activities, paper questionnaires, checklist surveys, and structured interviews.

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This process includes 3-4 hours of face-to-face testing and interview assessment; administration of appropriate survey measures; 4-5 hours of assessment scoring, integration, and report writing; and a 1-hour feedback session with the individual or family. 

 

The autism assessment battery generally includes:

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• Cognitive/Intelligence Assessment (Children, Adolescents, Adults)

  • Verbal Knowledge​

  • Fluid Reasoning

  • Visual Spatial Skills

  • Working Memory

  • Processing Speed
     

• Developmental Assessment (Young Toddlers)​

  • Visual Reception

  • Fine Motor Skills

  • Gross Motor Skills

  • Expressive Language Skills

  • Receptive Language Skills 

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• Autism Specific Interactive Assessment & Caregiver/Partner Autism Interview

  • Social Communication & Language Skills​

  • Relationships & Social Insight

  • Passionate Interests

  • Routines & Repetitive Tendencies

  • Sensory Interests & Aversions

  • Developmental Information

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• Broad Behavioral/Diagnostic Clinical Survey Measures

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• Clinical Interview with the Client
   

• Clinical Interview with a Parent, Caregiver, or Partner
   

• Review of Intake Questionnaires and Past Documentation

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AUTISM ASSESSMENT FEE

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The current fee for Autism Testing is $3000.  

 

Additional assessment, observation, interview, or consultation services are billed at a rate of $300/hour. Fees for Independent Educational Evaluations (IEEs) and third party assessments are typically more comprehensive, require more time, and incur a higher fee. 

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WHAT YOU WILL RECEIVE

 

The results of this process will be summarized in both:
 

• A psychological report that is typically 12-24 pages in length. This report includes all test results, a clinical summary, diagnostic information, and clinical recommendations. The report will be finalized and sent within 30 days after the last assessment measure is completed. 
   

• An oral feedback session with the client and/or family. Test results and diagnoses will be summarized, and the client and/or family will have the opportunity to ask questions. This session is typically 60 minutes.​

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BROADER ASSESSMENT EXPERIENCE

 

Dr. Vernon is an experienced local psychologist and diagnostician who specializes in the assessment of toddlers, children, adolescents, and adults suspected of having a wide range of conditions, including autism, ADHD, developmental delays, intellectual disability, learning disabilities, depressive and anxiety disorders, behavioral/conduct disorders, OCD/tic disorders, and gifted/twice exceptional individuals. 

 

He uses an empowering assessment approach that focuses on identification of strengths, deep respect for diversity and intersectionality, and a positive, therapeutic feedback process with practical recommendations. 

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CONFIDENTIALITY

 

All communication with Dr. Vernon will remain private and confidential while adhering to all applicable laws regarding limits to confidentiality and mandated reporting. Physical records are stored in locked, secure locations and digital records are securely stored on encrypted computers or cloud storage services. Dr. Vernon will not share clinical information over email and encourages clients and family members to refrain from using email and text to share any clinical information with him.

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INSURANCE INFORMATION

 

Dr. Vernon does not currently accept health insurance for his psychological services. Upon request, he can provide a detailed invoice with CPT Service Codes and ICD-10 Diagnostic Codes that can be submitted to insurance companies for reimbursement. In most cases, Dr. Vernon's services are considered out-of-network, which can limit reimbursement with some providers.

 

EMERGENCY CIRCUMSTANCES

 

Individuals are instructed to call 911 or visit their local hospital’s emergency room for any medical or psychiatric emergency requiring immediate assistance due to imminent danger to themselves or others. Dr. Vernon does not provide 24-hour hour crisis services. He is not typically available outside of scheduled session times and is not able to deescalate someone during a medical or mental health emergency.

 

SCHEDULING & QUESTIONS

 

If you have would like to schedule a psychological assessment or have questions about the assessment process or policies, you can contact Dr. Vernon using the button below.​