Autism Evaluations for Children

At OpenWorld Psychology, we provide comprehensive, child-friendly autism evaluations. Our neurodiversity-affirming approach helps families gain clarity, support early intervention, and better understand their child’s strengths and needs. Below you’ll find information about the evaluation process, what to expect, and how to prepare. Check out our team or schedule a consultation.

Why Families Seek an Autism Evaluation:

  • Delays or differences in communication, language, or social interactions

  • Repetitive behaviors, special interests, or unique play styles

  • Sensory sensitivities or unusual responses to sounds, lights, or textures

  • Difficulty with transitions, routines, or changes

  • Pediatrician or school recommendations for further assessment

  • To obtain a formal diagnosis for access to therapies or school services.

Our Evaluations Can Help Answer:

  • Does my child meet criteria for Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)?

  • How does autism present uniquely for my child?

  • What interventions, therapies, or supports would be most helpful?

FAQs

    • Parent Intake Session: 50-minute session to gather developmental history and family observations

    • Child Testing Appointment(s): 2–6 hours, sometimes split into multiple shorter sessions

    • Observation: We may observe your child’s communication, play, and social interaction styles

    • Overall Timeline: Most evaluations are completed within 4–8 weeks from start to finish

  • Your child will engage in:

    • Structured play-based assessments designed for autism diagnosis (e.g., ADOS-2 activities)

    • Language, social, and cognitive assessments

    • Parent interviews about developmental milestones and behaviors

    • Questionnaires completed by parents and sometimes teachers

    • Some fun, interactive activities that help us observe social communication skills

    • Complete Forms in Advance: We'll send intake forms via our secure OpenWorld portal.

    • Bring Comfort Items: If your child has a favorite toy, snack, or sensory item, feel free to bring it.

    • Prepare Your Child: Let them know they’ll be playing and talking with a friendly adult to learn more about them.

    • Provide Records: If available, bring IEPs, speech evaluations, prior testing, or pediatrician notes.

  • We offer ADHD evaluations at the following locations:

    • Everett, WA: 1902 120th Pl SE, Suite 201

    • San Juan Capistrano, CA: 31831 Camino Capistrano, Suite 111

    • San Jose, CA: 2570 N First St., Suite 211

  • Evaluation costs usually start around $2,000 and up, depending on your child’s unique needs.
    If a more extensive assessment (e.g., ADHD, learning differences) is recommended, we will discuss this with you.

    Reduced rates may be available through our training program at select locations.

  • We accept ComPsych insurance with pre-approval.
    Otherwise, payment is accepted by credit card through our online portal.We also provide a superbill (a detailed receipt) that you can submit to your insurance company for possible partial reimbursement, though reimbursement is not guaranteed.

  • Multidisciplinary evaluations are available at our Everett, WA location. At OpenWorld Psychology, we understand that every child is unique, which is why we offer an optional multidisciplinary approach to autism evaluations. All families will meet with a licensed psychologist for a full diagnostic assessment, and for those who would like additional support, we offer consultations with an occupational therapist and an educational specialist. These optional services can provide extra insight into your child's communication skills, learning needs, and school-based supports. Whether you choose just the psychologist evaluation or add these additional perspectives, we are here to help you build the clearest and most supportive path forward for your child.

  • We schedule a feedback session where we carefully explain:

    • Diagnostic impressions

    • Your child’s strengths and needs

    • Personalized recommendations for therapies, accommodations, and supports

    • Referral options for services like speech therapy, occupational therapy, or social skills groups (if appropriate)

    You’ll also receive a detailed written report.

The Evaluation Process

Our Multidsiciplinary Team (Everett)

In addition to a comprehensive diagnostic evaluation with a licensed psychologist, OpenWorld Psychology offers optional consultations with an occupational therapist and educational specialist. While a diagnosis can be made based on the psychologist’s assessment alone, adding these services can provide valuable recommendations for communication development and academic support. Families can customize the evaluation process to best meet their child's needs.

Psychology Team

Led by Drs. Beard and Soukup-Landeau, the psychology team will create a unique testing experience for each patient. The psychological report focuses on neurodevelopmental processes, and can include a look at autism, ADHD, learning differences, and other relevant information. As a neurodiversity-affirming practice, we also assess for individual strengths that can help families work toward their treatment goals.

Initial Consultation - $175 - $320

Occupational Therapy

Available starting in June 2025, our occupational therapist, Dr. Voigt, provides individual assessment and consultation for families. Dr. Voigt assess everyday skills and sensory needs children need to succeed at home, in school, and in the community. An occupational therapist focuses on how a child participates in activities ("occupations") that are important for their daily life.

Add-On Service- $880

Education Consultation

Available starting in June 2025, Katelyn Olsoy, MA, offers consultations for families to help navigate challenges at school. Her services include IEP consultation and functional behavior assessments (including behavioral and safety plans) conducted in the school setting.

Add-On Service- $800*

*non-clinical service not covered by insurance

Book Your Initial Consultation.