Autism Assessments
At New Horizons, we evaluate children and teens for Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and offer a neuroaffirming approach. (A neuro-affirming practice means that we believe in a strengths and rights-based approach to developmental differences and aim to provide support and adaptations that affirm the child’s neurodivergent identity.)
We will assess your child if they are verbal and generally cooperative. We do not test children who are non-verbal or who require behavioural accommodations.
We also assess children and teens up until 18 years of age who might have ‘high functioning’ ASD, which is Autism without accompanying intellectual disability. In this case, your child or teen may have Average, above Average or superior intelligence and also meet the criteria for Autism.
When should you consider an assessment for ASD?
You may wish to have your child or teen assessed for possible ASD if they are experiencing the following: difficulties communicating, making/sustaining friendships, weak social skills, avoiding social interactions, preferring to spend time engaging in their preferred activity, having difficulty with transitions, and who experience sensory sensitivities such as with lights, noise, fabrics, food, water etc.
We are learning more and more about Autism, and how it is presented in our youth. Many youth with Autism are also experiencing significant anxiety and/or attention difficulties, as well as difficulties with motivation and completing tasks. You may have noticed some concerning changes in your adolescent’s behaviour and could benefit from a consultation session. Please reach out to use for an initial consultation call so we can help you determine the next steps.