Clarity Begins Here

Sometimes parents sense for years that something about their child’s experience is different — even if they can’t quite put it into words.

Your child may be:

• bright and capable, but melting down after school

• socially interested, but struggling to connect

• overwhelmed by noise, textures, transitions, or unpredictability

• emotionally intense, perfectionistic, rigid, or anxious

• exhausted from trying to “hold it together” all day

• masking their struggles in ways others don’t easily see

Many children and teens work incredibly hard just to get through the school day comfortably. And many parents are left feeling inadequate or unsure of how to help.

This is where an autism evaluation can be a game changer.

Why Families Seek Evaluation

When kids struggle in ways that are difficult to explain, parents often spend years second-guessing themselves — wondering whether they’re overreacting, missing something important, or failing to help effectively.

A thoughtful evaluation can provide a clearer understanding of how a child experiences the world and what kinds of support may help them thrive.

An autism evaluation may help families:

• better understand their child’s strengths and challenges

• reduce shame, confusion, and self-blame

• improve communication at home

• guide therapy and support recommendations

• pursue school accommodations when appropriate

• help children develop stronger self-understanding

• create a greater sense of direction moving forward

For many children and parents, accurate understanding itself can be deeply relieving. Things that once felt confusing or isolating often begin to make more sense.

When families understand a child more clearly, they are often able to respond with greater compassion, confidence, and effectiveness — both at home and at school.

Not Sure Whether Evaluation is the Right Fit?

Many parents feel uncertain about whether what they’re noticing “counts,” whether their child is simply anxious or sensitive, or whether pursuing an evaluation would actually be helpful.

You’re welcome to reach out for a consultation call (phone number below) to discuss your concerns, ask questions about the assessment process, and explore whether an autism evaluation is appropriate for your child or family.

You don’t need to have everything figured out before contacting me.

What the Assessment Includes

Autism diagnostic assessments are comprehensive and typically include:

• A detailed clinical interview and developmental history

• Administration of standardized diagnostic measures (including the SRS-2and the ADOS-2, when appropriate)

• Review of relevant background information and collateral input

• Careful scoring and interpretation of assessment results

• A comprehensive written diagnostic report

• A feedback session to review findings and recommendations

Each evaluation is individualized and conducted with care, clinical judgment, and respect.

Fees

Autism diagnostic assessments are self-pay services and are not billed to insurance, but payment plans are available.

Current fee ranges are as follows:

• Child / Adolescent Autism Diagnostic Assessment: $2,400 – $3,400

• Adult Autism Diagnostic Assessment: $2,000 – $3,200

Fees vary based on the complexity of the evaluation and the time required for assessment, scoring, and report preparation. A more specific estimate can be provided during the initial consultation.

Get Started

To inquire about an autism diagnostic assessment, or to start the scheduling process, you’re welcome to reach me at:

Melanie Mia Mauss, LPC
Open Doors Counseling
schedulingodc@gmail.com
314-526-2824