Autism primarily affects three areas of behavior:  communication, social interactions or connectedness, and behavioral rigidity.  Because autism spectrum disorders are diagnosed based on behavior, the evaluation includes both formal assessments, as well as structured play and interaction scenarios.  Standardized tests are used for this purpose, and may include the Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule (ADOS), Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children-IV-Integrated (WISC-IV-I), Wechsler Preschool and Primary Scale of Intelligence-Third Edition (WPPSI-III), and others.  The Wechsler scales are widely used and broadly accepted tests of cognitive skills for children with and without developmental delays or learning differences.  The ADOS is a semi-structured assessment that specifically examines those behaviors commonly associated with autism.

Additional information is gathered from people who are most familiar with the child via Childhood Autism Rating Scale (CARS), Gilliam's Autism Rating Scale-Second Edition (GARS-2), Gilliam's Asperger's Disorder Scale (GADS), Social Responsiveness Scale, Social Communication Questionnaire (SCQ) and Vineland Adaptive Behavior System-Second Edition (VABS-2).  These instruments are in rating scale format and are typically completed by parents, caregivers, and teachers.

Other standardized instruments and informal measures may be used as needed to determine the presence of the behavioral characteristics of autism spectrum disorders (ASD).  Of course, each evaluation is designed to address the particular needs of each child and family.  In addition to addressing the impact of behaviors often associated with autism, comprehensive evaluations may include an assessment of cognitive and intellectual skills, educational performance, social/emotional adjustment, and independent living skills.

Similiar to our Psychological-Educational evaluations, an autism spectrum disorder (ASD) evaluation will include an Intake appointment with the parents or caregivers, several evaluation sessions, and an Interpretative Parent Conference providing results and recommendations. At this time, there is no waiting list for evaluations.  Parents can expect to begin the process with an Intake appointment within a week of initial contact with our office, barring any family scheduling constraints.   

The cost of the evaluation depends on several factors, including:  1) the age of the child  2) the complexity of the testing and 3) the unique needs of each child. Typically, testing is completed over three sessions.  At times, two sessions are adequate.  Our focus is on providing the best testing environment and ensuring that each child has the time and energy to do their very best.  As a part of a multi-disciplinary pediatric practice, we can also assist in coordination of care with other therapists, including speech-language therapists, occupational therapists, physical therapists, a nutritionist, and a psychiatrist.

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) Evaluative Services are offered by Carol Capehart, MA, LPA at our Midtown office  and Chris Vrabel, Psy.D. at our South Charlotte office. 

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) Evaluative Services Staff
Carol Capehart,MA, LPA, is a licensed psychological associate with many years of experience working with children and their families dealing with autism. She provides comprehensive evaluations to diagnose autism spectrum disorders, as well as family consultation, individual therapy, social skills groups, and parent support groups.  Her professional training and experience as a school psychologist also makes her a valuable resource to parents navigating through the process of obtaining individual education and accommodation plans. Ms. Capehart has extensive knowledge of local resources and community services for children with autism. She has been active in many community events supporting children and families with autism, including team leader for 4 years at the annual Walk Now For Autism and as an expert panel member on the WBTV Autism Telethon in April 2009. Ms Capehart is also available to speak to schools, civic groups, and pediatric/family medical practices about autism spectrum disorders. In order to provide clients with the best service available, she has regularly attends continuing education seminars, incluidng Social Difficulties of Learning, Attentional and Autism Spectrum Disorders: Screening and Treatment and Group Treatment for Asperger Syndrome: Getting the Most from Group Sessions.
Chris Vrabel, Psy.D. is a highly trained licensed psychologist, specializing in child assessment and child and family therapy. He has expertise in the assessment of Autism Spectrum Disorders, Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), Learning Disabilities and other developmental, behavioral and emotional problems that can impact your child and family. Assessments focus on helping families understand their child's strengths and challenges, clarifying diagnoses and making recommendations for success at home, in school and in the community.  He received his doctorate in Clinical Psychology from Indiana University of Pennsylvania and completed his undergraduate degree at Wake Forest University. He is based at the South Charlotte office.