What to Expect During an Autism Evaluation

Dr. Alexandra Brown, PhD, is a clinical psychologist with over 5 years of experience specializing in the assessment and support of young children with autism. Originally from Austin, TX, Dr. Brown combines clinical expertise with a warm, family-centered approach to care. Alongside Ally Behavior’s team of developmental pediatricians and clinical psychologists, Dr. Brown’s goal is to make every step of the diagnostic process clear and reassuring while capturing a full picture of your child’s development. She is passionate about helping families feel understood and supported as they take the next steps in their child’s care.

If your child has been referred for an autism evaluation, you might be wondering what the process will look like and how to best support your child through it. Knowing what to expect can help ease some of the uncertainty and make the experience feel a little less overwhelming for both you and your child. The following guide, written by Dr. Alexandra Brown, outlines what you and your family can expect during your child’s autism evaluation.

This is the first step in the evaluation process and usually takes place about a week before your child’s testing session. During this conversation, the psychologist will ask you questions to better understand your child’s unique experiences and development. You’ll be asked to share information about your child’s medical history, developmental milestones, social and emotional functioning, and educational background.

As a parent or caregiver, your insights are essential in helping the psychologist gain a complete and accurate understanding of your child. This interview is also an opportunity for you to ask questions and gain a clearer understanding of what the evaluation process will involve. Along with the interview, you’ll be asked to complete a few questionnaires. These tools help the psychologist understand your child more fully and ensure that the evaluation is as accurate and personalized as possible.

During the testing session, your child will meet with the psychologist for a play-based assessment. The session can last about two hours and is designed to feel as comfortable and engaging as possible. The psychologist will use games, toys, and structured activities to learn more about how your child communicates, interacts, and plays. Caregivers are encouraged to stay nearby to help your child feel more at ease throughout the session.

After the testing session, you’ll schedule a feedback meeting. During this conversation, the psychologist will walk you through the results, explain whether your child meets the criteria for an autism diagnosis, and talk with you about personalized recommendations for therapy, school supports, and other helpful resources. This is also a time for you to ask questions, share thoughts, and discuss next steps. After the feedback session, the psychologist will provide you with a written report detailing the evaluation findings and recommendations. This report can be shared with your child’s healthcare providers, therapists, and school teams to support treatment and educational planning.

How to Prepare Your Child and Yourself

For Your Child:

It can be helpful to explain to your child that they will be playing games and doing fun activities with a friendly adult. Keeping it light and positive can help set the tone for a relaxed, comfortable visit. Bringing along a favorite toy or comfort item, as well as a snack, can also help your child to feel more at ease during the session.

For Yourself:

To help yourself feel ready and supported:

• Review any information or materials from the psychologist ahead of time so you know what’s involved.
• Write down questions, concerns, or observations you want to share during the interview and feedback meetings.
• Provide the psychologist with any relevant medical records, school reports, or reports from previous evaluations.
• Reach out to friends and family for support throughout the process.

Families often continue care by exploring therapy options such as ABA therapy or coordinated services available through a full-service center model. These programs help support skill development, daily living abilities, and long-term progress.

Learn more about Ally’s clinical excellence and data-driven care model or review answers to common parent questions in our frequently asked questions.