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Autism Testing for Children and Teenagers
Get Diagnosed
Get the Clarity Your Child Deserves.
Overview of the Testing Process
Step One: The Consultation
Once you speak with our care-coordinator and feel comfortable getting your child started, they will be scheduled for the consultation with the testing specialist. Consultations are conducted through a convenient and private video session. If you and the testing specialist agree you child is the right fit for the full testing process, you will then move forward with the next phase.
Step Two: The Evaluation and Assessment
During this process, you and your child will meet with the clinical psychologist you have been matched with, either through telehealth video sessions or in-person at our San Francisco office. The full process varies in the amount of time it takes to complete depending on the complexity of testing that needs to be done. This will be discussed during the consultation, so you will have a better understanding of how long it will take to get an accurate and valid diagnosis. Total testing time is 10-12 hours for most individuals. It consists of a clinical interview, a battery of forms and tests, and collateral interviews. Once all testing is completed and all the data is gathered, the clinician will score and interpret all of the results. They will then integrate this information into a comprehensive report which includes any relevant diagnosis and treatment recommendations. This thorough process is considered the gold standard for diagnosing Autism Spectrum Disorder in children and adolescents.
Step Three: The Feedback Session
After completing the consultation and testing process for autism, you will have a final feedback session with your clinician. In this session, they will review any diagnosis they have come up with, help you understand their reasoning, and answer any questions you have about your results. They will recommend next steps, such as working with another care provider or therapist, and give you a better understanding of how this affects your day to day life. You will leave the testing process with a better understanding of your experience and what to do about it.
Why comprehensive testing for Autism Spectrum Disorder?
If you want to seek out the most useful treatment and resources, you need to accurately diagnose the problem.
This can be difficult with Autism Spectrum Disorder. While there are questionnaires and other informal measures, these don’t deliver a high degree of confidence and reliability. When the picture is more complicated, it requires a skilled and knowledgeable expert to provide an accurate diagnosis.
An accurate diagnosis will allow you to better understand why you are the way you are, and identify resources to help you excel.
Meet our testing specialists
Autism Testing Frequently Asked Questions
What is comprehensive autism testing?
Comprehensive autism testing is a detailed assessment aimed at diagnosing Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). Unlike informal questionnaires that offer limited reliability, comprehensive testing involves a thorough evaluation by skilled experts, ensuring a high degree of confidence and accuracy in the diagnosis.
What is autism spectrum disorder testing for high-functioning kids?
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) testing for high-functioning kids involves a comprehensive evaluation to diagnose ASD. These assessments are designed to identify the presence of autism spectrum conditions in kids who may not have been diagnosed in earlier childhood but face challenges related to social interaction, communication, and repetitive behaviors.
Why is it important to get tested for autism spectrum disorder as a child?
Getting tested for autism spectrum disorder (ASD) during childhood can make a meaningful difference in a child’s development and long-term well-being. An early and accurate diagnosis helps parents, educators, and care providers better understand a child’s unique needs—socially, emotionally, and academically. It opens the door to individualized support, therapies, and accommodations that can improve communication skills, emotional regulation, and learning outcomes. Most importantly, early identification allows children to build confidence and thrive with the right support from the very start.
How does SF Stress & Anxiety Center approach autism testing for children and teens?
At SF Stress & Anxiety Center, our autism evaluations for children and teens are designed to be thorough, supportive, and developmentally appropriate. We use a combination of parent interviews, teacher or caregiver input (when helpful), standardized testing tools, and direct interaction with the child to understand their strengths, challenges, and how they navigate the world. Our clinicians are experienced in working with kids and adolescents and take the time to create a calm, engaging environment that helps each child feel comfortable. The goal of our testing process is to provide parents with clear answers and practical guidance, so they can better support their child at home, at school, and in everyday life.
Can online therapy help with managing autism spectrum disorder in children and teens?
Yes, online therapy can be an effective tool for managing autism spectrum disorder in kids. It provides access to specialized therapeutic interventions focused on improving communication skills, social interaction, and coping strategies for anxiety and stress, all from the convenience of home.
What are the benefits of a formal autism diagnosis in children and teens?
A formal autism diagnosis in childhood or adolescence can be life-changing. It helps families understand their child’s behaviors, communication style, and developmental needs through a clearer lens. With a diagnosis, parents can access school-based supports (like IEPs or 504 plans), evidence-based therapies, and social skills programs designed specifically for kids and teens on the spectrum. Early identification also helps children build self-confidence by understanding themselves better—and allows caregivers, educators, and clinicians to provide the right support at the right time. Most importantly, a diagnosis is not a label—it’s a tool to help your child thrive.
Why is an accurate diagnosis important for children and teenagers suspecting they have ASD?
An accurate diagnosis is the foundation for understanding and supporting a child or teen who may be on the autism spectrum. It helps explain behaviors that may have seemed confusing—like difficulty with social interactions, sensory sensitivities, or challenges in school—and offers a clearer path forward. With the right diagnosis, families can access targeted therapies, school accommodations, and community resources that truly fit their child’s needs. It also helps children and teens build self-awareness and confidence, knowing that there’s a reason behind their experiences and that support is available to help them succeed.
What makes SF Stress & Anxiety Center's autism testing service unique?
SF Stress & Anxiety Center offers specialized autism testing services for children and teenagers, focusing on providing a comprehensive and accurate diagnosis. Our testing process is handled by knowledgeable experts trained to navigate the complexities of ASD, ensuring clients receive a reliable understanding of their condition and guidance on the next steps. We also make sure to include the parents or guardians in the process the entire time, making sure you feel confident along the way that your child has the best care.
Can autism spectrum testing be done remotely?
Yes, SF Stress & Anxiety Center offers video and phone sessions for autism spectrum testing, catering to individuals who prefer remote consultations or reside outside service locations. This flexibility ensures that anyone seeking a diagnosis for ASD can access high-quality evaluation services conveniently and effectively.
Can autism testing be done in-person?
Currently we offer in-person testing at our San Francisco office only. The first consultation is always done by video, but if you prefer to do the rest of the process in-person we can accommodate that preference.
How can I schedule a consultation for autism spectrum testing at SF Stress & Anxiety Center?
Scheduling a free consultation for autism spectrum testing at SF Stress & Anxiety Center is straightforward. Interested individuals can to click the “Schedule a Call with a Care Coordinator to Get Started” button schedule a quick call. This initial consultation with our care-coordinator will provide you with all the necessary information about the testing process and how it can help you.
How much does testing for Adult Autism cost?
The range of cost for Adult Autism and Aspergers Spectrum testing depends on the complexity of testing needed. The 1 hour video consultation to begin is $330. The full testing and evaluation for autism ranges from $4500-8500. During the consultation, the specialist will be able to give you better estimate of your full testing fee. We generally charge half of your testing fee at the first testing session, and the other half at your last feedback session.
Does insurance cover the autism evaluation?
We are now in network with some insurance plans: Aetna, Blue Shield of CA, Kaiser, and Oputm/United Healthcare. Once we verify your benefits and coverage, we can provide you with a more accurate cost of your child’s evaluation. Since this depends on your particular plan, we encourage you to consult with your insurance company prior to committing to an assessment.
Are there financing options available?
Yes, we partner with Advance Care, which allows you to pay off your services over time.
ONLINE ANXIETY THERAPY, COUNSELING & COACHING
Video & Phone Sessions
Video and phone sessions are a convenient solution for people who can’t find a specialist in their area or would rather not drive across town to an appointment. Research has proven that remote and in-person sessions are equally effective.
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