My child's school offered a free evaluation. Why would I pay for a private one?

School evaluations are designed to determine educational eligibility — not to provide a clinical diagnosis. A private evaluation from a licensed psychologist provides a comprehensive clinical picture that schools, therapists, insurance companies, and pediatricians can all act on. The two serve different purposes, and many families find that both are necessary.

My child is very young. Is it too early for an evaluation?

No. Early identification leads to earlier intervention, which research consistently links to better long-term outcomes. We evaluate children beginning at age 2. If you're seeing signs, it's never too early to get answers.

What if the evaluation doesn't result in a diagnosis?

A 'no diagnosis' result is still a valuable outcome. It means we've ruled out autism and related conditions, and we can help redirect you toward other explanations for what you're observing. The goal is always clarity — not a predetermined conclusion.

How long does the evaluation process take?

The in-person evaluation typically takes place over one to two sessions, depending on your child's age and the scope of the assessment. We prioritize minimal wait times from scheduling through results — you won't be waiting months for an appointment.

Do you accept insurance?

Yes. We accept all insurance plans. Please contact our office directly for current coverage details and to verify your specific plan.

What happens after the evaluation?

You'll receive a comprehensive written report with findings, a diagnosis (if applicable), and personalized recommendations. We'll discuss next steps, which may include ABA therapy, school accommodations, additional specialist referrals, or other support services tailored to your child's needs.

Child Evaluation

Every Journey Begins with a First Step

Whether you're a parent worried about your child or you've been told your child might have autism — you've found the right place. A comprehensive evaluation is the essential first step toward understanding your child and building a plan for their future.

A psychologist conducting an evaluation with a child and parent in a warm, professional office setting

CONCERN TO CLARITY

The Parent's Journey

Maybe it started at school. A teacher noticed your child struggles with transitions or social interaction. Maybe it was your pediatrician, or your own observations at home — behaviors or patterns that feel different from other children the same age.

You've done your research. You've asked questions. And now you're here, looking for answers.

A comprehensive evaluation from a licensed psychologist provides the clarity you need — a clear picture of your child's strengths, challenges, and how they learn best. It answers the question: what's really going on?

And once you know, you can build a plan.

FOUNDATION FOR SUPPORT

Why the Report Matters

A formal evaluation report from a licensed psychologist carries weight that informal observations and school screenings simply cannot. Here's what it makes possible:

•IEP and 504 Plan eligibility at your child's school
•Access to specialized therapy services and treatment programs
•Insurance documentation for ABA therapy, occupational therapy, and related services
•A clear treatment roadmap personalized to your child's strengths and needs
•Peace of mind — knowing exactly what you're working with and where to go next

THE WHOLE CHILD

What We Evaluate

We evaluate children ages 2 and older. Our comprehensive assessment includes autism spectrum disorder and co-occurring conditions.

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)

Comprehensive assessment of social communication, sensory processing, and behavioral patterns.

ADHD

Attention and executive function evaluation, including inattention, hyperactivity, and impulse control.

Anxiety Disorders

Assessment of anxiety presentations and their relationship to autism and other conditions.

Speech & Language

Evaluation of speech delays, language development, and communication patterns.

Sensory Processing

Assessment of sensory sensitivities and differences in how your child processes sensory information.

Learning & Development

Comprehensive evaluation of learning profiles, developmental milestones, and cognitive abilities.

WHAT TO EXPECT

The Child Evaluation Process

Intake & Scheduling

Reach out to us and our intake team takes it from there. We'll verify your insurance, confirm authorization, and get you scheduled.

Clinical Interview

Dr. Carosso meets with you to gather your child's developmental history, medical background, and school performance.

Direct Observation & Play

Dr. Carosso spends focused time with your child in a relaxed, engaging setting. He observes communication, play, learning, and interaction.

Standardized Testing

Your child completes a tailored battery of assessments — cognitive, developmental, behavioral, and autism-specific.

Records Review

With your permission, Dr. Carosso reviews school records, prior evaluations, medical history, and relevant documentation.

Post-Testing Follow-Up

Within 24 to 48 hours, you'll receive a summary email with key takeaways. Your full report arrives within four weeks.

Final Check-In

About a week after your report arrives, Dr. Carosso personally reconnects with you to answer questions and discuss next steps.

ABA Therapy - Therapist working with child using building blocks

AFTER THE EVALUATION

What Is ABA Therapy?

When an evaluation results in an autism diagnosis, ABA (Applied Behavior Analysis) therapy can provide families a clear, scientifically supported way to move forward.

ABA therapy uses clinically proven techniques to build positive behaviors and reduce challenges that may interfere with learning or daily life. By focusing on key developmental areas—such as social interaction, communication, reading, academics, and adaptive skills—it supports measurable progress across many parts of your child's life.

Autism Centers of Pittsburgh offers personalized ABA therapy from Board Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBAs), with flexible services available at home, at school, or at our center—wherever works best for your family.

Delivered exclusively by Board Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBAs)

Personalized to each child's unique strengths and challenges

Play-based, engaging, and age-appropriate

Data-driven with continuous progress tracking

GET STARTED TODAY LEARN MORE ABOUT ABA THERAPY

Frequently Asked Questions

TAKE THE FIRST STEP

Don't Continue to Wonder

The first step is a simple conversation. Contact us today to schedule your child's evaluation — receive the clarity, documentation and roadmap your family needs.

SCHEDULE A CHILD EVALUATION