Complete Autism Testing FAQ: Symptoms, Process, Age, and Gender Differences for Parents, Teens, and Adults

What Is Autism Testing?

What Is This Type of Testing?

An autism assessment is an evaluation designed to determine whether an individual meets criteria for Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). The assessment includes standardized tests, clinical observations, and input from caregivers or the individual to identify characteristics consistent with autism.

Why Is It Done?

Autism assessments are conducted to better understand a person’s developmental, social, emotional, and cognitive profile. Early and accurate diagnosis can guide treatment planning, educational support, and behavioral strategies. For older children and adults, assessments can also clarify co-occurring conditions or rule out other possible diagnoses.

What Tools Are Used?

For our Full Neuropsychological Assessments, we use a combination of gold-standard tools tailored to each individual’s age and presenting concerns. These include measures of:

• Cognitive functioning
• Academic achievement
• Executive functioning
• Memory
• Emotional and behavioral regulation
• Adaptive functioning
• Autism-specific assessments

We also incorporate multiple rating scales completed by caregivers, teachers, or the individuals themselves to gather a comprehensive view of functioning across settings. Specific tools vary depending on age and referral question to ensure clinical relevance.

Signs and Symptoms of Autism by Age

Ages 0–5 Years

• Speech delay
• Rarely responds to name by 12 months
• Limited gestures (e.g., pointing, waving)
• Repetitive behaviors (e.g., hand-flapping, rocking)
• Sensory-seeking or avoidant behaviors
• Limited or no eye contact
• Difficulty with nonverbal communication
• Prefers solitary play (“parallel play”)
• Lacks pretend play (e.g., feeding a doll)
• Repetitive play (e.g., lining up toys)
• Resistance to routine changes
• Unusual attachments to objects
• Limited peer interest

Ages 6–12 Years

• Difficulty making and keeping friends
• Struggles with social cues and reciprocal conversation
• Prefers solitary or highly focused interests
• Literal understanding of language (struggles with jokes/sarcasm)
• Repetitive speech or behaviors
• Persistent sensory sensitivities
• Difficulty adjusting to routine changes
• Rigid interests and rituals
• Limited peer engagement or connection

Ages 13–17 Years

• Growing awareness of social challenges, sometimes causing anxiety or depression
• Social withdrawal or preference for adults/younger children
• Trouble interpreting emotions or abstract ideas
• Masking symptoms to “fit in”
• Intensely focused interests
• Executive functioning challenges (e.g., planning, impulse control)
• Persistent sensory sensitivities
• Difficulty initiating conversations or asking for help

Ages 18 and Older

• Challenges with relationships and social communication
• Preference for routines and predictability
• Social misunderstandings in work or social settings
• Social exhaustion or burnout
• Intense or career-aligned interests
• Anxiety, depression, or co-occurring mental health issues
• Sensory issues affecting daily life
• Time management and organizational difficulties
• Use of masking behaviors that cause internal stress

Our Autism Testing Process

Intake Appointment

Intake sessions are typically 30–60 minutes. Parents (for children) or adult clients meet with the testing clinician to discuss developmental history and current concerns. This session helps clarify the referral question and guides test selection.

Testing Appointment

Testing sessions vary in length depending on age, verbal ability, and attention span.

Testing for Ages 0–5

• Nonverbal or minimally verbal children: ~1–2 hours
  • Includes the ADOS-2 and brief feedback the same day
• Verbal children (as young as 2.5 years): ~4–6 hours
  • Includes cognitive, academic, memory, and autism-specific measures
  • A 30-minute lunch break is built in

Testing for Ages 6–12

• Typically lasts 5–6 hours with breaks and a 30-minute lunch
• Assessments are adapted based on the child’s stamina and focus

Testing for Ages 13–17

• Generally 6 hours with minimal breaks and a lunch period
• Evaluations may include emotional, cognitive, and social functioning measures

Testing for Adults (18+)

• Lasts approximately 6 hours, including emotional and executive function assessments
• Includes a lunch break and flexibility depending on client needs

Feedback Session

The feedback session occurs after the diagnostic report is finalized. It lasts about 30–60 minutes and includes:

• A detailed review of test results
• Clarification of diagnoses
• Personalized recommendations
• Opportunity to ask questions

Gender Differences in Autism

Autism in Children: Boys vs. Girls

Autism in Teens: Boys vs. Girls

• Boys tend to show persistent stereotypical behaviors
• Girls often become skilled at masking autistic traits
• Girls may show higher social empathy and mimicry
• Boys continue to struggle with peer relationships
• Girls may be misdiagnosed with anxiety, OCD, or personality disorders

Autism in Adults: Men vs. Women

• Men often face challenges with employment, communication, and social routines
• Women may experience internalized stress, higher rates of anxiety or depression
• Both may struggle with masking, social nuance, and sensory sensitivity
• Women are more likely to be misdiagnosed or diagnosed later in life

Cost, Insurance, and Expedited Testing

Do You Accept Insurance?

Yes. We are in-network with:

• Blue Cross Blue Shield
• Blue Care Network
• ASR
• Priority Health (for select clinicians)

For out-of-network clients, we provide a superbill for potential reimbursement. We also offer CareCredit financing.

What Is the Turnaround Time?

• Traditional Testing: Reports completed within 4–6 weeks after testing

• Expedited Testing: Reports delivered within 5 business days

  • Expedited assessments are out-of-pocket and dependent on clinician availability

Is Expedited Testing Available?

Yes. Clients can be seen within 1–2 weeks through our expedited option. This is ideal for individuals needing faster results for school, work, or treatment planning.

What Happens After Testing?

What to Expect from the Feedback Session

You’ll meet with your testing clinician to review the diagnostic report, ask questions, and receive recommendations. These may include therapy referrals, school accommodations, or reading materials for further understanding.

Are the Reports Valid for Schools, Colleges, or Work?

Yes. Our diagnostic reports are accepted by most educational and workplace institutions. They can be used to request accommodations, individualized learning plans, or workplace supports, depending on the organization’s documentation requirements.