Autism Assessments for Children, Youth, And Adults
At Alberta Counselling Centre, we provide specialized autism assessments for children, youth, and adults conducted by highly trained psychologists who complete hundreds of these assessments every year.
Our specialized assessment team focuses exclusively on comprehensive psychoeducational and autism assessments and have significant expertise in diagnosing Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). They use the gold-standard tools for autism assessment—the Autism Diagnostic Interview-Revised (ADI-R) and the Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule, Second Edition (ADOS-2)—to ensure accurate, comprehensive, and reliable results.
These tools are widely recognized as the gold standard for ASD assessments because they offer a rigorous, reliable, and comprehensive approach to diagnosing autism. The combination of the ADOS-2's observational data and the ADI-R's detailed developmental history provides a robust framework for understanding the unique needs and challenges of autistic individuals. This thorough approach ensures that our clients receive accurate diagnoses and tailored recommendations that support their growth and development. These tools are internationally recognized as essential components of any thorough autism evaluation. For more information on these gold-standard tools for assessing autism, visit Autism Canada.
Our psychologists are not only experts in autism assessment but also bring unique insights as former teachers and school board psychologists who have extensive experience working with autistic individuals. This combination of clinical and educational expertise provides us with a deep understanding of how ASD affects learning, behavior, and relationships across different age groups.
Below, we outline common signs of autism in children, youth, and adults and the benefits of seeking a comprehensive assessment.
Autism Assessments for Children
Potential Signs in Children
- Social Difficulties: Limited eye contact, difficulty engaging in reciprocal play, or challenges understanding social cues.
- Communication Challenges: Delayed speech, repetitive language use, or difficulty expressing needs.
- Restricted Interests and Behaviors: Intense focus on specific topics, repetitive actions (e.g., flapping, spinning), or distress with changes in routine.
- Sensory Sensitivities: Becoming overwhelmed by sounds, lights, or textures, or seeking unusual sensory input.
- Emotional Regulation: Frequent meltdowns or difficulty coping with frustration.
Struggles They May Be Facing
Children with undiagnosed ASD often struggle with making friends, adapting to classroom expectations, or expressing themselves effectively. These challenges can lead to misunderstandings, feelings of isolation, or being labeled as "difficult." Without proper intervention, these struggles can escalate, affecting their self-esteem and academic progress.
Benefits of an Autism Assessment
A comprehensive autism assessment provides clarity for parents and caregivers. Understanding your child’s unique needs can lead to tailored interventions, school supports, and strategies to help them thrive socially and academically. Early identification is crucial, as it opens the door to resources such as speech therapy, occupational therapy, and specialized educational plans that can significantly enhance your child’s development and quality of life.
Autism Assessments for Youth (Adolescents)
Potential Signs in Youth
- Social Withdrawal: Difficulty maintaining friendships, misinterpreting sarcasm or humor, or preferring solitude.
- Communication Challenges: Struggles with abstract language, tone of voice, or participating in group discussions.
- Rigid Thinking: Inflexibility around routines or rules and intense focus on specific interests.
- Sensory Overload: Becoming overwhelmed in noisy, crowded, or chaotic environments.
- Emotional Challenges: High levels of anxiety, depression, or difficulty managing emotions.
Struggles They May Be Facing
Adolescents with undiagnosed ASD often feel misunderstood or "different" from their peers, which can lead to social rejection, isolation, or bullying. They may struggle to keep up with academic expectations or manage the sensory and social demands of high school life. These challenges can contribute to mental health concerns, such as anxiety or low self-esteem. Additionally, autistic youth can face challenges in communication, particularly in expressing their needs or understanding social cues. The transition to greater independence during adolescence can be particularly complex, requiring tailored support to help them develop coping strategies and life skills that match their unique needs.
Benefits of an Autism Assessment
A psychoeducational assessment during adolescence can provide vital insights into how ASD may be impacting social, academic, and emotional functioning. Armed with a diagnosis, teens can access accommodations for school, learn practical social skills, apply for grants and accommodations for post-secondary education, and develop coping strategies for anxiety and sensory sensitivities. Understanding their unique strengths and challenges can help them embrace their identity and build a more positive self-image.
Autism Assessments for Adults
Potential Signs in Adults
- Social Struggles: Difficulty forming or maintaining relationships, challenges in understanding social norms, or a history of feeling "different."
- Communication Challenges: Preference for direct, literal communication and difficulty navigating unspoken social rules.
- Routines and Interests: Rigid routines or intense focus on specific hobbies or work-related tasks.
- Sensory Sensitivities: Overwhelm in crowded or noisy spaces, or strong aversions to certain textures or smells.
- Mental Health Concerns: Persistent anxiety, depression, or burnout related to navigating a neurotypical world.
Struggles They May Be Facing
Autistic adults often encounter distinct challenges in various aspects of their lives. These can include difficulties in maintaining employment due to sensory sensitivities or challenges with social interactions, navigating romantic relationships, and managing independent living. Socially, they may feel disconnected, lonely, or isolated despite wanting meaningful relationships. Additionally, autistic adults may face societal stigma and misunderstanding, which can impact their mental health and self-esteem. Adults with undiagnosed ASD may have spent years feeling misunderstood or masking their symptoms, leading to exhaustion, frustration, or even burnout.
Benefits of an Autism Assessment
For adults, a diagnosis can be life-changing. It provides validation and answers to long-standing questions about why certain aspects of life have always felt harder. With a diagnosis, adults can access workplace accommodations, grants and accommodations for post-secondary education, government supports, connect with supportive communities, and learn strategies to enhance their quality of life. Understanding their neurodivergence allows them to stop masking and start living authentically. At Alberta Counselling Centre, we also offer counselling to help autistic adults build skills in communication, social interaction, and self-advocacy, enabling them to lead fulfilling lives while embracing their unique strengths
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