Autism Evaluations
If the client is deemed to be a candidate for IBHS through the screening process, a Written Order will be scheduled and administered by a Licensed Mental Health Professional (i.e., Licensed Psychologist). The results of this evaluation will determine the level of support needed for the individual to reach their fullest potential. The assessment is conducted face-to-face with the individual and involves a variety of methods to collect information (e.g., interviews, records reviews, etc.).
The primary goal of the evaluation is to determine the types of services while maintaining the least restrictive environment possible; therefore, referrals may be made to receive IBHS or another treatment (e.g., outpatient therapy, residential treatment facility, etc.). A written order is updated annually to determine the appropriateness of services. Reevaluations occur every 6 months to update assessment results, services and treatment goals.
What to expect during the assessment phase
The first 3-6 weeks that your child is admitted to our program is considered the assessment phase. During this time, a behavior specialist will be conducting a multitude of assessments that will inform their recommendations for your family. These may include, but are not limited to, interviews, direct observations and telehealth visits (explained further below).
- Needs for services for a child presenting with challenging behavior can be met by a Functional Behavior Assessment.
- Informal interviews: open-ended discussions with caregivers, school staff and any other informant with knowledge of the types of challenging behaviors that the child is exhibiting, when these behaviors are occurring and how often they are occurring.
Rating Scales
Formalized questionnaires for caregivers, school staff and any other appropriate informant to gather more specific information on challenging behaviors.
May take between 10 minutes and 1 hour
Direct Observation
Naturalistic observations made, in-person or over video chat, to determine in real-time, the environmental variables that may be affecting a challenging behavior.
Typically scheduled for 1-3 hours at a time
Needs for services
with skill-acquisition strategies (ADL, social, verbal, etc.)
- VB-MAPP
- AFLS
- Transition Assessments
May take between 10 minutes and 1 hour
Treatment recommendations are based on assessment results
- Treatment goals include specific timelines for the achievement of each goal
- Evidence-based interventions are based on scientific research, and each one is determined by various assessment results and observed skill levels.
What type of services are right for your family?
In Home
Your child is presenting significant difficulties at home. These difficulties may be in the form of challenging behaviors or skill deficits. You are looking for help in learning new ways to help your child become successful in these areas.
In school/Daycare/preschool/aftercare
Your child is presenting significant difficulties at school. They may be in the form of challenging behaviors or skill deficits. You and the school staff are looking for help in finding new ways to help your child become successful in these areas.
Other
Your child is struggling with maintaining their mental health or their non-behavioral disorder, and they could benefit from counseling or family therapy.
Estimated Timeline
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Autism Services Guide