Autism Diagnosis
Before a child can begin ABA therapy, a formal autism diagnosis from a qualified professional is required. At ABA Centers of Maryland, we guide families through the autism diagnosis process with clarity, care, and thorough clinical evaluations designed to support early intervention.
If you’ve noticed developmental delays, communication difficulties, or behavioral differences, our experienced clinical team is here to help. Families seeking reliable autism diagnosis and autism testing in Maryland can trust our professionals to provide thoughtful guidance and timely answers.
Many families face long waitlists for autism testing, which can delay access to early support. At ABA Centers of Maryland, we work to reduce unnecessary delays so children can begin appropriate services when early intervention can have the most significant impact.
Schedule an Initial Autism Testing Consultation
Contact ABA Centers of Maryland, and our team will listen to your concerns, review your child’s history, answer your questions, and help schedule evaluations. We make the process simple and supportive from the start.
Our Autism Diagnosis Process
Preliminary Assessment
During the initial evaluation, our clinicians meet with you and your child and use standardized autism assessment tools, including the ADOS-2. The assessment lasts two to four hours and focuses on communication, behavior, play, and social interaction.
Analysis and Evaluation
Following the assessment, our clinical team carefully reviews and analyzes the results. This step usually takes one to two weeks and allows us to ensure diagnostic accuracy and consistency.
Diagnostic Report and Recommendations
Once the evaluation is complete, families receive a comprehensive diagnostic report outlining findings and individualized recommendations. We will explain results clearly and discuss next steps, including whether ABA therapy or additional supports may be appropriate.
What Developmental Screenings Evaluate
During the autism testing process, clinicians may ask caregivers to complete questionnaires while observing key areas of development, including:
Movement and motor skills
Behavior and emotional responses
Thinking and problem-solving abilities
Language and communication
Social interaction
If screening results indicate a potential autism diagnosis, ABA Centers of Maryland offers comprehensive diagnostic evaluations using multiple evidence-based tools.
Autism Testing: How Diagnosis Works
No single medical test can determine Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). Professionals diagnose autism by reviewing developmental history, observing behavior, and using standardized assessment tools.
Early diagnosis leads to better long-term outcomes. When families identify and address autism early, children improve communication, social skills, and independence.
Clinicians recommend developmental screenings at 9, 18, and 30 months, with an extra screening at 24 months if autism is suspected.
Autism Diagnostic Tools We Use
ADOS-2
Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule
Assesses communication, social interaction, play, and repetitive behaviors.
(ADI-R)
Autism Diagnostic Interview–Revised
A structured caregiver interview reviewing developmental history and behavioral patterns.
CARS-2)
Childhood Autism Rating Scale, Second Edition
Helps distinguish autism from other conditions with overlapping characteristics, such as ADHD.
(RAADS-R)
Ritvo Autism Asperger Diagnostic Scale–Revised
A self-report questionnaire used to identify autism-related traits in older adolescents and adults.
Begin Your Child’s ABA Journey with Confidence
Getting an autism diagnosis opens the door to new possibilities. With the right help, kids with autism can grow, learn, and thrive every day.
At ABA Centers of Maryland, we are committed to providing families with a respectful, informative, and supportive diagnostic experience. Contact us at (844) 449-0939 to learn more about our autism diagnosis services and how we can help your child begin ABA therapy with confidence.