Autism Evaluation in Arizona: A Parent's Step-by-Step Guide
If you are here, you may be seeing patterns that make you pause. Maybe your child is not using many words. Maybe eye contact is brief, or routines feel non-negotiable. You are not alone in wondering, Could this be autism, and what should I do next.
This guide explains early signs by age, the difference between screening and diagnosis, who can diagnose in Arizona, and how to move forward with confidence.
What autism is
Autism is a neurodevelopmental condition that affects communication, social interaction, and behavior. It looks different from child to child.
Some children speak early yet struggle with back-and-forth conversation. Others use few words but navigate familiar routines well. Some love lining up toys or watching spinning objects. Others prefer quiet play with adults rather than peers.
Autism is a spectrum, not a single presentation.
Early signs by age
Every child develops at their own pace. What matters most is patterns that repeat over time, not one moment or one behavior.
| Age range | Social communication | Play and behavior | Sensory examples |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6-12 months | Limited eye contact or smiling back, reduced response to name | - | Strong reactions to sound, difficulty calming, minimal tracking of faces or toys |
| 12-24 months | Few gestures such as pointing or waving, delayed words | Lines up toys, fixates on parts of objects, distress with change | Covers ears, picky textures, watches fans or wheels |
| 2-4 years | Scripted or repetitive phrases, limited back-and-forth conversation | Prefers solo play, limited pretend play, rigid routines, repetitive movements | Avoids certain clothing, strong reactions to light or noise, seeks deep pressure |
Note: No single sign confirms autism. Patterns over weeks and months are more informative than isolated moments.
Screening versus diagnosis
Screening and diagnosis are related, but they are not the same. Screening is a quick check that looks for possible traits. Diagnosis is a formal evaluation that confirms or rules out autism and opens doors to services.
At a glance
| Topic | Screening | Diagnosis |
|---|---|---|
| Purpose | Brief check for possible traits | Formal confirmation or rule-out |
| Profession | Pediatrician or care team | Psychologist, developmental pediatrician, neurologist, or psychiatrist |
| Tools | Parent questionnaires such as M-CHAT, developmental checklists | Parent interview, observation, standardized tools such as ADOS-2 |
| Outcome | Refer for evaluation if flagged | Diagnostic report, treatment recommendations, insurance and school guidance |
If a screening suggests risk, ask your pediatrician to provide a referral for a comprehensive evaluation. You do not need all the answers before you ask for help.
Who can diagnose autism in Arizona
- Licensed psychologist with training in autism assessment
- Developmental pediatrician
- Child neurologist or psychiatrist
If you are unsure where to start, request a referral from your pediatrician and contact the Arizona Institute for Autism for guidance. You can visit our Library for foundational articles and parent guides.
Step-by-step: how to get an evaluation
- Write down patterns you notice: Keep brief notes for one to two weeks. Examples include response to name, use of pointing or gestures, play style, and reactions to change or noise.
- Talk with your pediatrician: Share your notes and ask for an autism evaluation referral. You can mention prior screenings if you have completed the M-CHAT or similar tools.
- Schedule the evaluation: When you receive referral options, ask about wait times, languages, and whether the clinician uses standardized tools such as ADOS-2.
- Prepare a small packet: Include teacher comments, Individualized Education Program documents if any, previous evaluations, insurance cards, and a short video of typical play if available.
- Attend the evaluation: Expect a family interview, direct observation, and structured activities that feel like play. Bring familiar snacks and comfort items.
- Review results and plan next steps: The report will outline findings and recommendations. If autism is diagnosed, it should include therapy suggestions and medical or school referrals.
After diagnosis: therapies that support growth
Many children benefit from a coordinated plan that can include multiple therapies. Your diagnostic report will guide which to start first.
| Therapy | Focus | What it looks like |
|---|---|---|
| ABA therapy | Communication, receptive skills, functional play, daily living, social skills, executive functioning | Fun, play-based sessions that teach new skills and reduce barriers to learning |
| Speech-language therapy | Expressive and receptive language, social pragmatics, AAC | Modeling words, gestures, pictures, or devices to build communication |
| Occupational therapy | Sensory processing, fine motor, self-care, regulation | Sensory-informed activities that build regulation and independence |
Learn more in our articles on ABA basics and positive behavior supports in the AIA Library.
Ready to talk through referrals, insurance coverage, and therapy options? Schedule a free consultation and our team will guide your next steps.
Why patterns matter
A single behavior rarely tells the whole story. A child who talks late may be adventurous in motor skills. Another who speaks in long sentences may prefer routines that feel predictable. Watching patterns across communication, play, flexibility, and sensory reactions gives your pediatrician and the evaluator a clear path to the right supports.
What to say at the pediatric visit
Use simple observations. Medical language is not required.
- He does not point to ask for things.
- She lines up toys and gets upset if I move them.
- He uses words, but not to request or answer simple questions.
- She has a hard time when the routine changes.
Short journal entries such as "did not look when name called" or "cried when schedule changed" add valuable context. These notes help the professional select the right assessments and recommend appropriate therapies.
Gentle reminders
- Early conversations open doors to support.
- An evaluation can confirm autism, rule it out, or suggest other pathways such as language delay.
- You know your child best. Your observations guide the process.
Autism Evaluation Tips for Arizona
What is the difference between an autism screening and an autism diagnosis?
Screening is a quick check that flags possible traits. Diagnosis is a formal clinical evaluation by a qualified professional that confirms or rules out autism.
Who can diagnose autism in Arizona?
Licensed psychologists, developmental pediatricians, child neurologists, and psychiatrists can complete a formal diagnostic evaluation in Arizona.
When should I ask for an evaluation?
If you notice patterns in social communication, play, or flexibility that persist over time, speak with your pediatrician. Early conversation opens access to support.
What happens during an autism evaluation?
Expect a parent interview, direct observation, and standardized tools such as ADOS-2. Results guide treatment recommendations and school or insurance supports.
Do I need a diagnosis to start ABA therapy in Arizona?
Insurance plans typically require a formal diagnosis and a referral. AIA can help you understand your coverage and next steps.
What should I bring to the first appointment?
Bring notes on behaviors and triggers, teacher reports, previous evaluations, insurance information, and a short video of typical play or routines if available.
