Autism Diagnosis
Overview
There is no medical autism test, like a blood test, to diagnose autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Instead, experienced medical professionals examine a person’s developmental history and behavior, interview and observe the person and their loved ones, and use professional screening and diagnostic tools to make a diagnosis.
If you’ve noticed some early signs of autism in your child speak to your child’s pediatrician as soon as possible. Your doctor will likely recommend a diagnostic test.
Your child’s testing should be done by someone who has experience working clinically with children with ASD. They should be trained and certified to conduct any measurements.
If you have concerns about your child’s development
We encourage you to get your child screened promptly. You can request an autism screening anytime from your child’s doctor.
Meanwhile, you can complete the Modified Checklist for Autism in Toddlers-Revised (M-CHAT-R™). It takes just a few minutes to assess the likelihood of autism. And you can take the results to your doctor.
Talk with your healthcare provider. Screening doesn’t diagnose autism. It flags behaviors often associated with the condition. After screening, your doctor can refer you to a specialist for a diagnostic evaluation. Importantly, you don’t need to wait for a diagnosis for your child to receive services.
Who can Diagnose?
When getting an autism diagnosis for your child, it’s important to obtain an evaluation by health care professionals who are experienced in identifying autism spectrum disorder (ASD) across a range of ages and symptom severity. It would be helpful to find someone who has evaluated hundreds of individuals, not just a few here and there.
Ideally, the team should include a medical specialist such as a developmental pediatrician, psychiatrist or neurologist. In addition, it should include a psychologist with expertise in diagnosing autism, a speech-language pathologist and possibly an occupational therapist.
Autism Levels – Understanding Support Needs
Autism presents differently in each person. These levels describe the amount of support needed, not a person’s value or potential.
Level 1 – Needs Some Support
Challenges:
- Difficulty starting or keeping conversations
- Shy or misunderstands social cues
- Upset by small changes in routine
- Sensitive to noise, lights, or textures
- Step-by-step social skills teaching
- Clear instructions and routines
- Quite space for focus
- Emotional encouragement
Level 2 – Needs Substantial Support
Challenges:
- Limited or unusual speech
- Struggles with social interaction
- Repetitive behaviors affecting daily life
- Strong dislike of changes
- Sensory issues
Support Tips:
- Structured teaching and clear routines
- Support communication with pictures, gestures, or simple speech
- Prepare the child for changes
- Extra support at school and home
Level 3 – Needs Very Substantial Support
Challenges:
- Very little or no spoken language
- Severe difficulty communicating
- Strong repetitive behaviors or strict routines
- Strong sensory sensitivities
- Difficulty with daily activities (dressing, eating, hygiene)
Support Tips:
- Daily, consistent support
- Alternative communication: pictures, sign language, or devices
- Highly structured routines
- Support with daily tasks and safety
- Collaborate with teachers, therapists, and health workers
