Froese Psychological Services

CHILDREN - ADOLESCENTS - ADULTS

What is an Autism Assessment

At Froese Psychological Services, we now offer psychological assessments specifically exploring the possibility of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD).

An assessment examining the possibility of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) offers the opportunity to better understand an individual’s behaviors, communication style, and ways of thinking. It can help identify both strengths and challenges, including areas such as social communication, interpersonal interactions, and sensory processing.

The assessment involves a comprehensive evaluation of developmental history and current functioning to determine whether diagnostic criteria for Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) are met. The goal is to provide clarity and guide appropriate supports and next steps.

What to Expect from an ASD assessment

Pre-Appointment (virtual)

After booking your appointment, you will be sent various standardized and non-standardized forms that will help us gather relevant background information and information related to various areas of functioning/development.

Appointment(s) (in-person)

On the day(s) of the assessment, the psychologist will conduct an interview to collect additional information to ensure all aspects of an individual's life are taken into consideration when conducting the assessment.

Testing

Following the interview, the psychologist will use a variety of different tests and measures to gain information. Testing will look at different main areas:

- Cognitive development: We examine areas related to fluid reasoning, various forms of memory, visual-spatial concept formation, verbal concept formation, executive functioning, language skills, etc. to better understand how the individual processes information.

- Behavioral observation: Standardized measures are used to better understand social communication, interaction, and behavior.

- Adaptive functioning: We explore areas of adaptive/life skill development, such as those related to functional communication, personal care, socialization, and independence in daily activities.

Debrief

Following the assessment, the psychologist will debrief the results and conclusions (you are welcome to invite others to this meeting if you feel it would be beneficial for them to be present). During this time the psychologist will work to help you understand the results and talk about recommendations moving forward. Our goal is to make sure you leave feeling comfortable with all the new information we talked about and make sure you receive the proper supports.

Interpretation and Report Writing

Following the assessment process, all information collected will be compiled into a comprehensive report, including all recommendations and guidance for next steps. The amount of time taken for the report to be completed varies and if there are specific time factors for us to consider, please inform us ASAP so we can work to meet these needs, or communicate to you if we will be unable to meet these requirements.

Austism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) Assessment