Autism Evaluation Finder

There are a variety of clinical professionals who are licensed to diagnose Autism. The ideal type of clinician for any type of psychological assessment is a neuropsychologist. A neuropsychologist is a psychologist that specializes in brain functioning and assessment; a pediatric neuropsychologist typically specializes in neurodevelopment or pediatric brain injuries. Neuropsychologists receive education specifically in assessment and diagnosis, brain functioning, neuroanatomy and diagnostic criteria, and then complete post-doctoral fellowships and residencies in their area of specialty. Some neuropsychologists work at hospitals or clinics, most have their own private practice. Some psychologists also get additional trainign to assess for Autism.

There are other clinicians that are licensed to diagnose autism despite that not being the focus of their training. In Washington state, physicians and some nurses (ARNP’s) can also diagnose Autism, although most have not had the extensive training in this area (Just like neuropsychologists typically have not had extensive training in psychopharmocology .)

We recommend finding a pediatric neuropsychologist in either a private practice, clinic or hospital setting. In larger settings, ask who your child will be seeing, as many hospitals utilize nurses for autism assessment.