ASD Screening & Diagnosis | Center for Autism Spectrum Disorders | SIU

ASD Screenings

The process of diagnosis at the Center for Autism Spectrum Disorder (CASD) includes three steps. The first step is the screening appointment. The screening appointment is currently conducted through telehealth via a HIPAA-compliant, videoconference software called Zoom. The appointment lasts about one hour and includes two parts, an interview with the parent/caregiver and a direct observation. For younger children, the direct observation includes a 10- to 15-minute observation of the child playing with toys. For older children, adolescents, or young adults, direct observation typically entails an interview with the clinician directly. These appointments are conducted by graduate student clinicians under the supervision of a licensed professional. These screenings are intended to provide recommendations for seeking an ASD diagnostic evaluation if indicated and for potential treatment options. These appointments do not provide an ASD diagnosis.

ASD Diagnostics:

The second step of the process is the diagnostic evaluation. The evaluation is a two- to three-day process and is conducted by a licensed psychologist. The evaluation is being conducted in person currently, but this could change if COVID-related restrictions intensify. The third step is the confirmation of the diagnosis (if indicated) by a medical provider. The Center for Autism Spectrum Disorders works with Shawnee Health to complete this final step. During this step, reports from steps one and two are sent to the physician. The physician reviews these reports to confirm a diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder if indicated. The determination of a medical diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder is complex. All three steps are necessary to receive a diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder through our process. Diagnostic evaluation appointments are limited and are selected based upon specific criteria assessed through the ASD Screening.