Natural wood textures with soft curves representing calm sensory-safe environment in autism assessment
Assessment Services

Autism Assessment in Windsor

Comprehensive ASD psychological evaluation for children ages 2+ and adolescents up to age 20 using gold-standard assessment tools

Understanding Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental condition characterized by differences in social communication, social interaction, and the presence of restricted or repetitive patterns of behavior, interests, or activities. ASD exists on a spectrum, with individuals experiencing a wide range of strengths and challenges.

Why "Spectrum"?

Autism affects people differently and to varying degrees. Some individuals require significant support in daily life, while others are highly independent. Each person with autism has a unique profile of strengths, challenges, interests, and abilities. Understanding where someone falls on the spectrum helps inform appropriate supports and interventions.

Core Features of Autism

Social Communication & Interaction

  • Difficulty with back-and-forth conversation
  • Challenges understanding or using nonverbal communication (eye contact, facial expressions, gestures)
  • Difficulty developing and maintaining relationships
  • Reduced sharing of interests or emotions with others
  • Difficulty understanding others' perspectives or intentions

Restricted & Repetitive Behaviors

  • Repetitive movements (hand-flapping, rocking, spinning)
  • Insistence on sameness and difficulty with change or transitions
  • Highly restricted, intense interests (in topic, activity, or object)
  • Unusual sensory responses (over- or under-sensitivity to sounds, textures, lights, etc.)
  • Repetitive speech or echolalia (repeating words or phrases)

Common Signs Across Different Ages

🧒 Early Childhood (Ages 2-5)

  • Delayed or unusual language development
  • Limited interest in other children or parallel play
  • Repetitive play (lining up toys, spinning wheels)
  • Unusual reactions to sensory input
  • Limited pointing, showing, or sharing interests

👦 School-Age (Ages 6-12)

  • Difficulty making or keeping friends
  • Preference for solitary activities or playing alone
  • Intense focus on specific topics or interests
  • Difficulty with unstructured time (recess, lunch)
  • Literal interpretation of language or difficulty with idioms/sarcasm

👨 Teens & Adults

  • Difficulty understanding social cues and unwritten rules
  • Challenges maintaining conversations or friendships
  • Preference for routine and difficulty with unexpected changes
  • Intense, specialized interests or hobbies
  • Social exhaustion or need for alone time after social interaction
  • Masking (camouflaging autistic traits, which can be exhausting)

Why Get an Autism Assessment?

Understanding & Self-Acceptance

A diagnosis provides clarity, validation, and self-understanding. Many individuals and families experience relief from finally having an explanation for lifelong differences and challenges.

Access to Services & Supports

An autism diagnosis opens doors to specialized services, therapies (speech, OT, ABA), educational supports (IEP), and community programs designed for autistic individuals.

School Accommodations

Documentation is often required for Individualized Education Plans (IEP), accommodations, and specialized classroom supports that help autistic students succeed academically.

Informed Treatment Planning

Understanding an individual's unique autistic profile helps guide decisions about therapies, supports, and strategies tailored to their specific strengths and needs.

The Autism Assessment Process

Dr. Jamil conducts comprehensive autism assessments using gold-standard tools, including the Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule (ADOS-2), clinical interviews, and standardized testing.

1

Developmental History Interview (1.5-2 hours)

In-depth interview covering developmental milestones, social communication history, current functioning, sensory sensitivities, and areas of concern. This is conducted with parents/caregivers.

2

ADOS-2 (Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule)

The ADOS-2 is the gold-standard observational assessment for autism. It involves semi-structured activities designed to observe social communication, interaction, play, and repetitive behaviors. The session lasts 40-60 minutes and feels like natural play or conversation, not a formal "test."

Dr. Jamil has extensive experience using the ADOS for youth with varying ability levels.

3

Adaptive Testing (1-2 hours)

Assessment of adaptive functioning (daily living skills) to understand the individual's level of independence and support needs. Note: Cognitive testing is only included in combined psychoeducational + ASD assessments.

  • Adaptive behavior scales (Vineland-3)
  • Additional testing as needed based on concerns
4

Rating Scales & Questionnaires

Completion of autism-specific rating scales by parents, teachers, or other individuals who know the person well. This provides information about functioning across different environments.

5

Integration & Report Writing

Dr. Jamil synthesizes all information, compares findings to DSM-5-TR diagnostic criteria, and prepares a comprehensive written report detailing the results, diagnosis, and recommendations.

6

Feedback Session (1 hour)

Review of assessment results, diagnosis, and personalized recommendations for supports, services, and next steps. Opportunity to ask questions and discuss the findings in detail.

What's Included in Your Assessment

  • Gold-standard ADOS-2 assessment by trained clinician
  • Comprehensive psychological report (7-10 pages) with diagnosis per DSM-5-TR criteria
  • Detailed recommendations for supports, services, therapies, and accommodations
  • Documentation suitable for schools, service providers, and healthcare professionals
  • Thorough feedback session to review results and answer questions
  • Follow-up consultation if needed after receiving the report

Cost and Timeline

Assessment Fee

$1,680 - $1,920

(7-8 hours at $240/hour)

Includes developmental interview, ADOS-2, adaptive testing, scoring, comprehensive report writing, and feedback session. Many extended health insurance plans cover autism assessments.

Timeline

  • Weeks 1-2: Developmental interview and ADOS-2 sessions
  • Weeks 2-3: Cognitive and adaptive testing sessions
  • Weeks 4-5: Scoring, report writing, and integration
  • Week 5-6: Feedback session to review results

Total process typically takes 5-6 weeks from start to finish.

Who Should Get an Autism Assessment?

Consider an autism assessment if you or your child:

  • Has differences in social communication or difficulty with social interactions
  • Displays repetitive behaviors, movements, or speech patterns
  • Has intense, specialized interests or difficulty with change/transitions
  • Experiences sensory sensitivities (over- or under-response to sounds, textures, lights, etc.)
  • Has difficulty making or maintaining friendships despite wanting connection
  • Needs documentation for school supports (IEP), services, or community programs
  • Suspects they may be autistic and wants clarity and self-understanding

Age range: Dr. Jamil provides ASD assessments for children ages 2+ and adolescents up to age 20.

Begin Your Journey to Understanding

Book a free 15-minute consultation to discuss whether an autism assessment is right for you or your child, and learn more about the process.