ADOS-2 Diagnostic Testing for Autism Spectrum Disorder
At Bierman Autism Centers, we understand the need for accurate and reliable autism testing.
This is why we offer ADOS-2 diagnostic as part of our comprehensive diagnostic testing services.
It’s important to note that ADOS-2 is a diagnostic tool and is not used to develop programming strategies related to ABA therapy. ADOS-2 is typically a single part in a multi-part assessment, that then determines diagnosis and treatment recommendations from a diagnostic provider.
Here, we explain how the test is used in the diagnostic process.
Contact us today or continue reading to learn more.
ADOS-2, or the Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule, 2nd Edition, is a standardized assessment tool used by trained clinicians to evaluate social interaction, communication, and behaviors associated with autism spectrum disorder (ASD).
It involves structured activities and observations tailored to your child’s age and developmental level. ADOS testing helps clinicians gather information about social communication skills, play, and imaginative use of materials, aiding in the diagnosis of ASD when used as part of a comprehensive evaluation.
ADOS-2 is considered the gold standard in autism diagnosis. Still, it is essential to note that it is just one piece of information that a clinician will consider during a complete evaluation. Other factors, such as your child’s developmental history and parent reports, will also be considered.
An ADOS-2 involves structured interactions and observations designed to assess social communication, interaction, play, and imaginative use of materials.
The evaluation includes activities tailored to your child’s age and developmental level, such as engaging in conversation, storytelling, playing with toys, and responding to social cues.
Trained clinicians administer the test and observe your child’s responses to various stimuli to gather information about their social communication skills and behaviors. The results help determine if your child meets the criteria for an autism diagnosis and serve as one of the tools that will guide your diagnostic provider in creating treatment recommendations.
During autism diagnostic testing for children aged 18 months to 9 years at Bierman Autism Centers, clinicians engage in specific activities tailored to the child’s developmental age and current communication skill set. For example:
Clinicians may use toys and simple games to observe social interactions, such as sharing toys, pretend play, and responding to gestures like waving or pointing.
Activities may include structured play scenarios like pretending to cook in a play kitchen or engaging in a simple conversation about favorite toys or activities.
Tasks may involve more complex social interactions, such as conversing about school or friends, following multi-step instructions, or playing cooperative games with the clinician.
Throughout the assessment, our clinicians carefully observe your child’s responses, including verbal and nonverbal communication, social reciprocity, play skills, and imaginative play. These observations help accurately evaluate social communication abilities and behaviors associated with autism spectrum disorder (ASD).
The insights gained from these tailored activities guide clinicians in determining if a diagnosis is warranted and providing suggestions for supporting each child’s unique needs—trust Bierman Autism Centers for a comprehensive diagnostic process that includes using the ADOS-2.
After ADOS-2 testing, the results are carefully analyzed by our experienced team of clinicians and specialists. Depending on the outcome of the assessment, several steps may be taken:
We provide detailed feedback to parents or guardians regarding the comprehensive diagnostic assessment results, including the ADOS-2. This feedback includes information about your child’s social communication skills, behaviors observed during testing, and whether they meet the criteria for an ASD diagnosis.
If a diagnosis is made or areas of concern are identified during testing, our diagnostic clinician creates individualized recommendations for treatment that the family should seek. These recommendations may include ABA therapy, speech and language therapy, occupational therapy, and other supportive services your child may need.
If an autism diagnosis is confirmed, our clinical team will provide you with personalized feedback on treatment options. This may include recommending ABA therapy.
We have a separate team specifically qualified to conduct ABA assessments if you want to pursue ABA therapy for your child. This assessment, led by a behavior technician, will build on the diagnostic report and provide a more in-depth evaluation of your child’s needs for ABA therapy. Based on this in-depth assessment, they will create a personalized treatment plan tailored to your child’s specific goals.
At Bierman Autism Centers, our commitment goes beyond assessment; we strive to provide comprehensive, compassionate, and effective care for children with autism and their families.
When seeking top-notch ADOS-2 testing services near you, look no further than Bierman Autism Centers.
Our commitment to providing comprehensive assessments and crafting personalized intervention strategies sets us apart as leaders in autism diagnosis and treatment.
Take the first step in understanding and supporting your child better by scheduling an appointment with us today. Reach out to our dedicated team to embark on a journey toward tailored care and meaningful progress with us.
