Assessment & Diagnosis

autism social skills training

Autism Testing for Children

When you’re searching for answers about your child, every moment matters. We know this isn’t just about a diagnosis—it’s about your hopes, your questions, and your child’s future.

At Behavioral Innovations, we walk alongside families with compassion and expertise. For more than 25 years, parents have trusted us to provide thoughtful, accurate autism evaluations for young children. Our licensed psychologists and clinicians use the most reliable diagnostic tools, but just as important—we take time to listen, explain, and make sure you never feel alone in the process.

Because every child deserves to be understood. And every family deserves clarity and peace of mind.

Schedule an Evaluation

How does Our Autism Testing Process Work?

  1. Initial Consultation: We start by listening. Our team will review your concerns, your child’s developmental history, and any relevant medical or school records to better understand their unique background.
  2. Structured Observation: Your child will participate in guided activities that help us observe their social, communication, and behavioral skills in both structured and natural settings.
  3. Clinical Tools & Testing: We use trusted, evidence-based tools like ADOS-2, CARS, or ADI-R to accurately assess for signs of autism.
  4. Team Collaboration: If necessary, we’ll collaborate with other specialists—like speech or occupational therapists—to ensure a full picture of your child’s strengths and needs.
  5. Feedback & Parent Guidance: We’ll walk you through the results and offer clear recommendations for next steps—whether that includes ABA therapy, speech services, or other supportive interventions.
  6. Comprehensive & Written Report: You’ll receive a detailed report outlining the findings, including a diagnosis (if applicable) and our clinical recommendations for care.

Schedule An Evaluation

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Autism Testing Tools

How do we Screen for Autism?

At Behavioral Innovations, we use many diagnosis tools at our autism diagnosis center to help you understand your child’s needs. We walk with you, support you and help you navigate the process.

  1. Modified Checklist for Autism in Toddlers (M-CHATTM): The M-CHAT is appropriate for children under 3. It is a parent-report screening tool that assesses the risk of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). With the M-CHAT, the parent completes a 20-question questionnaire and receives an autism risk assessment for their kid.
  2. Childhood Asperger’s Syndrome Test (CAST): If you suspect your child has autism, it is crucial to take them for an autism test. This parent-completed questionnaire captures various social, communicative, and imaginative behaviors in children aged 4 and older.

An autism diagnosis will help you understand the challenges your child is having at school and home. You can get the initial autism screening from your pediatrician, or our team can perform a full autism evaluation.

Take the CAST    Schedule An Official Evaluation

Why Choose Us?

Diagnostic Support at Behavioral Innovations

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Our assessment team is led by licensed psychologists who oversee the training and quality assurance of our diagnostic services.
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We handle every step of the diagnostic process with care, ensuring you receive clear guidance and support from initial screening to final report.
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Our methods are based on the latest research and best practices in autism diagnosis, so we can provide you with the most accurate results.
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External providers accept our diagnostic results, allowing you to choose your preferred ABA therapy provider.

Early Signs of Autism By Age

Infants (0-1 year)

  • Lack of eye contact
  • Not responding to name
  • Limited facial expressions
  • Not imitating sounds or movements

Toddlers (1-2 years)

  • Delayed speech or no babbling
  • Limited gestures (e.g., pointing, waving)
  • Difficulty playing with others
  • Repetitive actions like spinning

Preschool (3-4 years)

  • Difficulty with social interactions
  • Repetitive behaviors (e.g., hand flapping)
  • Echolalia (repeating words/phrases)
  • Inconsistent responses to sounds
  • Difficulty with pretend play

School-Age (4-6 years)

  • Trouble understanding social cues
  • Intense focus on specific topics
  • Sensitivity to sensory stimuli
  • Struggles with changes in routine
  • Difficulty making friends

Next Steps

Young mother with small daughter talking on the phone at home.

If your child has already been diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), we’re here to help you take the next steps towards effective treatment and support. Contact us to set up a consultation with one of our experienced clinicians to discuss your child’s specific needs and create a tailored ABA therapy plan.

Get Started with ABA Therapy

If you suspect your child may have autism and need a comprehensive diagnosis, our team is ready to assist you through the entire diagnostic process. Schedule an initial consultation to discuss your concerns with one of our licensed psychologists. You will receive a comprehensive report of our findings, which can serve as an official document for most insurances.

Schedule An Evaluation

In-Person & Virtual Assessments Available

Book Your Child’s Evaluation Today

If need an official evaluation for autism, we are here to help. Schedule with us and get your questions answered.

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    TESTIMONIALS

    Real Families. Real Feedback

    View All Testimonials
    The center is clean, bright, and designed to be a safe space for learning and play. It feels less like a clinic and more like […]
    The center is clean, bright, and designed to be a safe space for learning and play. It feels less like a clinic and more like a supportive community. You can tell the staff actually enjoys working together. what really sets Behavioral Innovations apart is the pure kindness that radiates through the center. It’s one thing to be professional; it’s another thing entirely to be truly compassionate.
    Allison G February, 2026
    The staff at Behavioral Innovations is awesome. They are very welcoming and always have smiles on their faces. They keep me and my family updated […]
    The staff at Behavioral Innovations is awesome. They are very welcoming and always have smiles on their faces. They keep me and my family updated on my child’s progress every day. I highly recommend BI!
    Carmen G February, 2026
    Behavior Innovations has been an incredible support for our family. The team is patient, compassionate, and highly professional. They truly take the time to understand […]
    Behavior Innovations has been an incredible support for our family. The team is patient, compassionate, and highly professional. They truly take the time to understand my son’s needs and support his growth every step of the way. Knowing he is cared for in such a positive and encouraging environment gives us complete peace of mind. We are so grateful for everything they have done for our son.
    Ingrid R February, 2026
    The staff at Behavioral Innovations is amazing. We always feel welcomed and I can tell they care about the kids. My kid really enjoys his […]
    The staff at Behavioral Innovations is amazing. We always feel welcomed and I can tell they care about the kids. My kid really enjoys his time there and I appreciate his progress in many areas, thanks to the excellent staff always doing a great job.
    Marisol M February, 2026
    The team at Behavioral Innovations is very kind and truly dedicated to their clients. My children enjoy their time working with their staff and are learning so much from them! I highly recommend them!
    Amber W February, 2026
    Our little guy started in last year and OMG he has shown HUGE progress! We absolutely love our BCBA – she does an incredible job […]
    Our little guy started in last year and OMG he has shown HUGE progress! We absolutely love our BCBA – she does an incredible job with setting his plans , goals and ideas. And i’m thankful for all his technicians, they have been great with helping him execute those goals! Very appreciative of everyone here.
    Irene M February, 2026
    We absolutely LOVEEEEEE BI! Since starting at BI, we’ve seen so much improvement in her! She loves going to see her techs and she always […]
    We absolutely LOVEEEEEE BI! Since starting at BI, we’ve seen so much improvement in her! She loves going to see her techs and she always gets so excited to go to “school” 🙂 They’re very easy to communicate with – very sweet and caring!
    Shirley V January, 2026
    We love, love, love BI! They have been instrumental in developing our daughter into a bright, curious and very vocal child. I can’t thank BI […]
    We love, love, love BI! They have been instrumental in developing our daughter into a bright, curious and very vocal child. I can’t thank BI enough for the love, kindness and care that they’ve shown us. Thank you!
    Matthew W January, 2026
    High praise for compassionate and knowledgeable BCBAs and RBTs. My son has shown so much improvement since he started and it’s all because of their […]
    High praise for compassionate and knowledgeable BCBAs and RBTs. My son has shown so much improvement since he started and it’s all because of their hard work and dedication. Behavioral Innovations, thank you for being AMAZING.
    Lyn L January, 2026
    My daughter has been going to ABA for two years with Behavioral Innovations. I can honestly say they have been best decision I’ve made for […]
    My daughter has been going to ABA for two years with Behavioral Innovations. I can honestly say they have been best decision I’ve made for my daughter!! Everyone is so nice and supportive. My daughter loves everyone, loves coming each day, and has improved so much!
    Brenda C January, 2026

    FAQs About Our Diagnostic Services

    To prepare for your child’s diagnostic evaluation, please review these common questions and answers:

    Our diagnostic services are currently offered in Texas and Colorado.

    At Behavioral Innovations, we currently offer a flat fee for diagnostic evaluations. The straightforward pricing includes the initial consultation, assessments and observations, feedback sessions, and the written report.

    Our company aims to include our diagnostic services under many insurance providers in the future. At this time, our diagnostic services require clients to pay the expenses out-of-pocket.

    Many insurance companies may require a re-evaluation to continue receiving insurance coverage for related services. Usually, the diagnostic reports are valid for around three years. It’s best to schedule an appointment months before a report expires so you can avoid any gaps in care coverage.

    Professionals at Behavioral Innovations can guide you through options for the next steps. We offer applied behavior analysis (ABA) therapy for children with ASD. The scientific approaches aim to help children improve their lives and reach their full potential. You can read our article about ABA therapy to learn more.

    With the right support and interventions, some children diagnosed with ASD can show positive changes and improvements over a significant amount of time. Generally, ASD requires long-term support and is considered a condition that an individual may experience throughout their entire life.

    Meet the Team

    Our Diagnosticians

    Dr. Anise Flowers

    Anise Flowers, PhD
    Dr. Casey Vaccaro

    Casey Vaccaro, PsyD

    Suzanne Hart, PhD

    Tanner Simpson, PsyD