FAQs

An autism evaluation is a comprehensive evaluation completed by a specialized professional to determine whether a person meets the diagnostic criteria for Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). This type of evaluation involves a clinical interview regarding background information, medical history, developmental history, as well as, completing standardized measures of the individual’s social, communication, and behavior patterns. In addition, for child evaluations, the provider will conduct a structured observation of your child engaging in activities.

If a person is showing symptoms of autism (ex. Lack or regression of social communication, repetitive behaviors, resistance to change, etc.) or he/she has failed a standardized autism screening, it is recommended he/she get formally tested. Refer to the National Institute of Mental Health for more information regarding sign/symptoms of autism. Testing may also be appropriate in situations in which your child is not meeting developmental milestones in a timely manner. Please refer to the Center for Disease Control regarding developmental milestones appropriate for each age group.

Although, there is no specific age a child should be evaluated, early intervention is the key to a good prognosis for autism. Therefore, ideally, by the age of 2 years old would be recommended.

Families should send the provider any relevant documentation/medical records prior to the first appointment. Examples of records that would need to be shared with the provider include the following: any positive autism screening measure, speech/OT/PT records, or individualized education plans (IEPs). In addition, families should complete all AATC initial intake paperwork in the client portal prior to their first appointment.

Research shows that clients showed just as much satisfaction with virtual autism testing as compared to in-person testing. In addition, individuals suspected of autism often do not like changes in routine and can have anxiety when visiting healthcare offices. Virtual testing provides clients with access to this service in the comfort of their home. In addition, the clinician can benefit from observing the client in his/her natural environment which can give a better glimpse into the client’s level of functioning and day-to-day behavior. See related article below regarding parental satisfaction with telehealth autism assessments: https://link.springer.com/content/pdf/10.1007/s10803-022-05576-1.pdf

Once a child receives an Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) diagnosis, the focus shifts to understanding their unique profile and translating that understanding into practical, individualized support at home, in school, and in daily life. In this practice, a diagnosis is not the endpoint—it is the beginning of a structured, individualized plan. After feedback is provided, I review your child’s strengths and needs in detail and develop clear, actionable recommendations using our Clinical Action Plan Framework. This framework organizes findings into practical priorities and next steps related to communication, emotional regulation, social development, sensory needs, school supports, and behavior patterns, all tailored to your child’s specific presentation. Families are also given a clear roadmap for what to do next so they are not left trying to interpret results on their own. For many parents, ongoing support is the next step in turning recommendations into real-life change. One option is AATC's Key to Parent Mastery Program, a structured consultation-based program. This program focuses on building practical skills and systems for responding to behavioral challenges, supporting emotional regulation, strengthening communication, and increasing confidence in parenting decisions over time. See our Services page for more information about this program. The goal is to move from diagnostic clarity to implementation—so you leave not only understanding your child’s profile, but also having a structured, actionable plan you can confidently apply in everyday life.

AATC accepts online credit/debit card payment through our electronic medical record system. All fees must be paid PRIOR to the start of the appointment. If the client does not pay prior to the appointment, the appointment will be cancelled. AATC does not currently take insurance; however, clients can request superbills to submit to their insurance providers for out-of-network services. It should be noted that AATC providers will not interface with your insurance provider so any inquiries by the insurance company regarding the service will have to be handled by the client. To check your out-of-network benefits yourself, use the Reimbursify widget (blue button) on the right side of this page. Also, as a complimentary service, out-of-network benefit verification for prospective clients. Although we are a private-pay practice, many clients are able to receive reimbursement through their out-of-network mental health benefits.If you'd like us to verify your benefits before deciding whether to move forward with an evaluation, send us an email at accessautismtesting@gmail.com, with the name of client/insured, DOB of client/insured, Member ID, & Group ID (if applicable).

All services can be provided in-person at a rate of $250/hour to local areas in Louisiana within 20 miles of the provider"s residence including Ascension Parish (Prairieville, Gonzales ,etc.), East Baton Rouge Parish (Baton Rouge), and Livingston Parish (Denham Springs, Watson, etc.). Additional locations such as Covington/Mandeville area, Greater New Orleans area, and Lafayette may be eligible for in-person services at an increased rate. However, AATC is open to traveling to any area in northern Louisiana (Shreveport, Monroe), Florida (Pensacola, 30A, Destin, Tampa, Miami, Orlando, Naples, etc.) and Texas (Dallas, Houston, Austin, San Antonio, etc.), Nevada (Las Vegas, Henderson, Reno, etc.), or Washington (Seattle, Spokane, Tacoma, etc.) if travel expenses can be included and rates negotiated.

First, you will need to contact AATC at 225-285-3956 to inform us of what service you need so we can answer any questions that you have. Next, the initial intake paperwork will be sent to you through the client portal to complete. Once AATC receives the completed initial paperwork and any additional medical records needed for the service, you will be scheduled for your first appointment.

The following organizations/websites that have general resources about autism that you may find helpful: Autism Speaks https://www.autismspeaks.org/ Autism Society https://autismsociety.org/ Autism Self Advocacy Network https://autisticadvocacy.org/ Autism Research Institute https://autism.org/ National Autism Association https://nationalautismassociation.org/

AATC serves the entire states of Texas, Florida, Louisiana, Nevada, and Washington. Therefore, areas like Dallas, Houston, Austin, Miami, Tampa, Las Vegas, Reno, Seattle, and Spokane are all within our catchment area.

1. Our evaluations are more comprehensive than our competitors. It is common for evaluations to include questions regarding symptoms, developmental milestones, adaptive skills, and social functioning. However, our assessments can also include detailed information about sensory processing and functions of challenging behavior. In addition, AATC completes an observation in the natural environment so there is a clearer picture of how your child functions in his/her day-to-day life and not in a contrived setting like an office. AATC also thinks it is important to speak with parents about their stress related to their child’s difficulties. AATC's goal is to get a full picture of what the family is experiencing so we can make the best and most individualized recommendations as possible. 2. Our owner has extensive experience in both assessment and treatment of autism including applied behavior analysis (ABA). In addition, she has worked in multiple settings with individuals with autism (ex. clinic, school, community, hospital, etc.) Often times, clinicians who do autism assessments only work with families during the diagnostic process. AATC also offers parent consultation services post diagnosis to navigate next steps. 3. Our telehealth services prevent your child from having to go to a “doctor’s office visit" that can be stressful for individuals with autism or anxiety. Our entire assessment process can be completed from your own home where your child feels most comfortable.

Those interested in an adult assessment should call (225.285.3956) with any questions. Once a client decides to move forward, AATC will give them client portal access and send all initial paperwork through the portal to complete. The client should also upload any relevant clinical documentation into the portal. Once the initial paperwork is returned, the first appointment will be scheduled. The first appointment will be an intake appointment which will include discussion of background information and a diagnostic interview. The second appointment will be the administration of standardized measures of autism symptoms, social functioning, and sensory processing. Assessment of possible comorbid conditions will also be administered to clarify diagnosis as needed. The third appointment will include discussion of the prepared report that documents the test results. The evaluator will go over the results, personalized recommendations, and any questions the client has at this appointment. Session fee must be paid prior to each appointment. It is suggested that anyone seeking an adult evaluation have an informant that can attest to their symptoms or related medical/school/therapy records showing a pattern of symptoms preferably over the life span.

1. No Waitlists — Fast Access to AnswersInsurance systems commonly require months (or years) of waiting. With private pay, you bypass those delays and get scheduled quickly. This allows you to move forward with clarity, support, and next steps without losing valuable time.2. A Thorough, Unrestricted EvaluationInsurance companies often dictate what tests can be used, how many hours are covered, and what must be documented to “justify” a diagnosis. Private pay removes those restrictions. This means you receive a clinically driven, strength-based, neurodiversity-affirming evaluation based solely on your needs—not an insurance company’s checklist.3. More Time with a PsychologistPrivate pay enables the depth of assessment that autistic individuals deserve. You receive:Ample time for interviewsComprehensive review of developmental historyEvidence-based assessment toolsDetailed interpretation and feedbackSpace to ask questions, process results, and plan next stepsThere is no pressure to rush, and no billing codes limiting care.4. A Strength-Based, Clear, and Actionable ReportInsurance reports are often written narrowly for reimbursement. My private-pay evaluations produce high-quality, practical reports that support you across settings, including:SchoolsCollegesEmployersDisability servicesAccommodations requestsTherapy providersYour report is designed to be useful—not just billable.5. Privacy and AutonomyPrivate pay keeps your information fully private. Nothing is shared with insurance companies or placed into their databases. You decide who receives your results, when, and how.6. No Diagnosis Required for ServicesInsurance-based models often require a diagnosis within specific billing categories before services can begin. Private pay allows you to explore questions, concerns, or support needs without pressure to fit into a diagnosis to access help.7. Care Tailored to Your Goals, Not Insurance RulesYour evaluation can focus on:Subtle autism presentationsLate-identified autismMasking/camouflagingCo-occurring anxiety or ADHDSensory and communication profilesRecommendations that match your real-life needsYour goals drive the assessment—not billing requirements.8. Clear, Transparent PricingPrivate pay eliminates surprise bills, denials, and “out-of-network” confusion. You know the cost upfront and receive a high-touch, expert-led evaluation experience from start to finish.To check your private insurance out-of-network benefits yourself, use the Reimbursify widget (blue button) on the far right hand side of this page. We are now offering, as a complimentary service, out-of-network benefit verification for prospective clients. Although we are a private-pay practice, many clients are able to receive reimbursement through their out-of-network mental health benefits.If you'd like us to verify your benefits before deciding whether to move forward with an evaluation, send us an email at accessautismtesting@gmail.com, with the name of client/insured, DOB of client/insured, Member ID, & Group ID (if applicable).

No, AATC takes no insurance or Medicaid for payment. However, we do provide superbills, upon request, to those with private insurance who want to use their private insurance out-of-network benefits. To check your private insurance out-of-network benefits yourself, use the Reimbursify widget (blue button) are the far right hand side of this page. Also, we are now offering, as a complimentary service, out-of-network benefit verification for prospective clients. Although we are a private-pay practice, many clients are able to receive reimbursement through their out-of-network mental health benefits. If you'd like us to verify your benefits before deciding whether to move forward with an evaluation, send us an email at accessautismtesting@gmail.com, with the name of client/insured, DOB of client/insured, Member ID, & Group ID (if applicable).