Autism Diagnostic Evaluation
Strengths-based, non-pathologizing diagnostic services for developmental diversities
Out testing process
At Axis Mundi, we recognize the intrinsic uniqueness of each individual, thereby emphasizing a personalized evaluation process. Our methodology is rooted in a non-pathologizing, strengths-based approach, designed to comprehensively evaluate language/communication and social engagement diversities, while also pinpointing the distinctive strengths and interests that define each person.
Our team employs a blend of formal testing instruments and interactive play sessions to enrich our assessments for children aged two through eighteen. Our examiners have additional training in understanding complex presentations in autistic individuals, including the female phenotype of autism that has previously been ignored in autism evaluation. Upon completion of these sessions, we provide a comprehensive written summary of the evaluation, a medical diagnosis (if appropriate), and practical recommendations for nurturing skill development in harmony with the values of our clients.
Session 1: Intake and Administration of Autism Diagnostic Interview-Revised (ADI-R).
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Two hour session with parent(s)/caregiver(s) & child (if appropriate*)
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Virtual or In-Person appointments available
Session 2: Interactive Play Session
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50-minute child-led play session
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In-person appointment
Session 3: Administration of Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule-2 (ADO-2)
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60-90 minutes formal testing session (time dependent upon testing module being administered)
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In-person appointment
Session 4: Report Findings and Recommendations Review
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50-minute session with parent(s)/caregiver(s) and child (if appropriate*)
* please note: Formal testing instruments were developed under the medical model of disability and though they are not necessarily deficits-based, reporting of perceived difficulties that children currently or previously experienced can be experienced as critical by clients. While the understanding and reporting of diversities in development, including delays and challenges, is necessary for documentation for medical diagnosis, we recognize that these differences do not provide a holistic picture of the individual and further assess for strengths and gifts that are inherent to the child in front of us.