Autism Evaluations in Miami Lakes
Understanding Starts with a Comprehensive Evaluation
Trinity CMHC provides comprehensive autism evaluations designed to better understand social communication, behavior, development, sensory experiences, and other areas of functioning that may be associated with Autism Spectrum Disorder.
Each evaluation is individualized according to the person's age, history, concerns, clinical presentation, and reason for referral.
Signs & Considerations
When Questions About Development or Social Functioning Arise
Autism can present differently from person to person and across different ages. An evaluation may be considered when there are questions involving areas such as the following. Experiencing one or more of these characteristics does not automatically mean someone has autism — a comprehensive evaluation is used to better understand the overall clinical picture.
Our Approach
Autism Evaluation Is More Than One Test
Autism should not be diagnosed based solely on one questionnaire, rating scale, observation, or test score. A comprehensive autism evaluation integrates multiple relevant sources of information. Not every autism evaluation requires every assessment component or instrument — the approach is tailored to the individual.
Clinical Interview
Review of developmental history, current concerns, communication, social functioning, behavior, medical and mental health history, educational history, and other relevant information.
Developmental & Behavioral History
Information from parents, caregivers, or the individual regarding developmental milestones, behavior patterns, relationships, sensory experiences, and daily functioning.
Standardized Autism Assessment
Evidence-based assessment instruments selected according to age, clinical presentation, and referral question.
Behavioral Observation
Clinical observation of communication, social interaction, behavior, and other relevant areas when appropriate.
Cognitive or Developmental Assessment
Assessment of cognitive or developmental functioning when clinically indicated.
Adaptive Functioning
Evaluation of everyday functioning and independence when appropriate.
Emotional & Behavioral Assessment
Assessment of emotional or behavioral concerns when relevant to the referral question.
Collateral Information
Information from teachers, therapists, physicians, caregivers, schools, or other relevant sources when appropriate and authorized.
Differential Diagnosis
Looking Beyond a Single Explanation
Some characteristics associated with autism may overlap with other developmental, behavioral, learning, or mental health concerns. Comprehensive evaluation helps clinicians determine which findings best explain the person's presentation rather than beginning with a predetermined diagnosis.
Younger Clients
Autism Evaluations for Children
Parents may seek an autism evaluation after noticing differences in communication, social interaction, play, behavior, sensory responses, development, or relationships. Information from caregivers is often an important part of evaluating younger children. When clinically appropriate and authorized, information from schools, teachers, therapists, physicians, or other professionals may also be considered.
Adolescents & Adults
Autism Can Be Identified Later in Life
Some individuals are not evaluated for autism during early childhood. Adolescents and adults may seek evaluation after experiencing longstanding differences involving social communication, relationships, sensory experiences, routines, focused interests, emotional regulation, or daily functioning. Evaluations for adolescents and adults are individualized according to developmental history, current functioning, clinical presentation, and available collateral information.
Next Steps
From Understanding to Recommendations
Findings and recommendations are individualized. Recommendations should be based on the individual's strengths and needs. Depending on the person's age, needs, and evaluation results, recommendations may involve the following.
Understanding Your Results
Clinically appropriate findings and recommendations are reviewed so the individual or caregiver can better understand the evaluation results and potential next steps. The evaluation process varies depending on clinical complexity, required assessments, completion of questionnaires or testing, availability of records and collateral information, and other factors.
Assess. Treat. Excel.
Assessment and Treatment in One Organization
Trinity CMHC also provides therapy and psychiatric services. When appropriate, individuals completing an autism evaluation may explore treatment services at Trinity CMHC based on their needs and recommendations. Treatment at Trinity is not required following an evaluation.
Refer for an Autism Evaluation
Trinity CMHC welcomes appropriate referrals from healthcare providers and other professionals. Referral sources are encouraged to provide relevant records and clearly identify the reason for referral or clinical questions when possible.
Insurance & Autism Evaluations
Insurance coverage for autism evaluations varies depending on the health plan, eligibility, medical necessity, referral requirements, authorization requirements, requested services, and other applicable criteria. Trinity CMHC works with many commercial and Medicaid health plans. We encourage families and referral sources to contact us to verify current benefits, eligibility, authorization requirements, coverage, and appointment availability.
Frequently Asked Questions
Related Evaluations & Services
Not Sure Which Evaluation You Need?
Contact Trinity CMHC so the reason for referral can be reviewed and the most appropriate evaluation can be identified.
Answers Begin with Understanding
If you have questions about autism for yourself, your child, or someone you support, Trinity CMHC can help you explore whether a comprehensive autism evaluation may be appropriate.