Blog
By Dr. Aaron Ellington, PhD, LPCC-S, LICDC-CS
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) affects how a person experiences the world, including how they communicate, relate to others, and process sensory information. It’s a spectrum, meaning no two individuals experience it in exactly the same way. For many people, especially those with milder or atypical traits, autism may go unnoticed or misunderstood for years.
This is why professional autism testing, guided by trained clinicians, is essential for both children and adults.
The Importance of Early Testing in Children
For children, early diagnosis can be life-changing. Recognizing the signs of autism and receiving a professional evaluation as early as possible opens the door to:
- Early intervention services that improve language, social skills, and behavior
- School-based support, such as Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) or 504 plans
- Family education, so caregivers can understand and support their child’s unique needs
- Improved outcomes in independence, communication, and emotional regulation
Children may show signs of autism through limited eye contact, delayed speech, repetitive behaviors, or difficulty adjusting to change—but these symptoms can vary widely. That’s why clinical evaluation is necessary to determine whether autism is present or if other developmental conditions may be involved.
Why Adult Autism Testing Matters Too
Autism is lifelong, and many adults may go undiagnosed well into their 30s, 40s, or later, especially those who have masked their traits or were misdiagnosed as children. For these individuals, professional diagnosis can bring relief, clarity, and empowerment.
Benefits of adult testing include:
- Understanding past experiences (e.g., social struggles, sensory overload, burnout)
- Improved mental health support—diagnosis may clarify challenges with anxiety or depression
- Better self-advocacy at work, in relationships, and in healthcare
- Access to appropriate services and accommodations
Autistic adults often say that a diagnosis helped them make sense of who they are, and enabled them to make choices that align better with their neurodivergent identity.
What Happens During Professional Autism Testing?
A professional autism evaluation may involve:
- Developmental history review (interviews with caregivers for children, or self-report for adults)
- Behavioral observations in structured and unstructured settings
- Standardized tools, such as the ADOS-2 (Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule) and the ADI-R (Autism Diagnostic Interview)
- Cognitive and language assessments, if needed
- Screening for other conditions, like ADHD, anxiety, or learning differences
Evaluations are typically conducted by psychologists, developmental pediatricians, or neuropsychologists with specific training in autism diagnostics.
Why Self-Diagnosis Isn’t Enough
While self-identification can be a helpful starting point, especially for adults, only a trained professional can provide an accurate and comprehensive diagnosis. This distinction is important for:
- Accessing legal protections and educational support
- Avoiding misdiagnosis (e.g., confusing autism with ADHD, OCD, or trauma)
- Creating a personalized plan for care, support, and accommodations
Final Thoughts
Autism is not a problem to fix—it’s a different way of being. Professional testing helps individuals and families understand those differences, reduce confusion, and build a roadmap for support and success.
Whether you’re a parent concerned about your child, or an adult seeking clarity, know this: getting tested is a step toward empowerment, self-knowledge, and compassionate care. Behavioral Health Services of Greater Cleveland offers comprehensive autism evaluations for children, teens, and adults. Our team is here to guide you with sensitivity, expertise, and respect. Contact us today to learn more or schedule a consultation. Behavioral Health Services of Greater Cleveland has two locations: Rocky River and Medina. Please call (866) 466-9591 ext. 0 for an intake.
Founded in 2008, BHSOGC has delivered professional Psychology Services to the greater Cleveland area with offices in Medina and Rocky River. We are a multi-disciplinary group practice with a clinical staff of psychologists, licensed social workers and masters level therapists.
