Finding the right professional to help with an autism diagnosis can feel overwhelming, especially with so many options available. The journey to understanding your child’s needs or your own can raise a lot of questions.
Who should you turn to for an accurate diagnosis? It’s not just about finding a medical expert – it’s about finding someone who truly understands the complexity of autism and can guide you through the process.
Let’s explore who can help you take those important first steps.
Who to See for an Autism Diagnosis?
If you or a loved one is seeking an autism diagnosis, the first step is to consult a healthcare professional who specializes in developmental disorders.
Pediatricians and family doctors are often the initial points of contact. They can provide referrals to specialists such as developmental pediatricians, child psychologists, or child psychiatrists.
These professionals have expertise in diagnosing autism spectrum disorder through comprehensive evaluations that may include observing behavior, conducting interviews, and using standardized diagnostic tools. Speech-language pathologists and occupational therapists may also play a role in assessing specific areas like communication and sensory processing.
For adults seeking an autism diagnosis, clinical psychologists or psychiatrists with experience in neurodevelopmental conditions are key. They can evaluate symptoms, consider your life history, and use diagnostic criteria to determine if you meet the requirements for an autism spectrum diagnosis.
If you’re unsure where to start, contacting your primary care physician for a referral or reaching out to local autism organizations can be helpful. They often provide resources and connections to qualified professionals in your area.
What to Expect During the Diagnostic Process
While the diagnostic process for autism can be overwhelming, understanding what to expect can make it easier for both the child and the family.
Here are a few things to keep in mind:

Professionals Involved in Autism Diagnosis
There are several professionals involved in diagnosing autism. A comprehensive diagnosis is often the result of a collaborative effort between healthcare providers, educators, and other specialists.
Below are the key professionals you might encounter during the diagnostic process:
Pediatricians and General Practitioners
Your first point of contact for a potential autism diagnosis is usually your pediatrician or general practitioner. Pediatricians are well-equipped to identify early signs of developmental delays or unusual behaviors that might indicate autism. They can perform initial screenings and recommend further evaluations if needed.
In some cases, pediatricians may be able to offer a diagnosis after thorough observation and tests. However, most will refer families to specialists for a more in-depth evaluation.
Pediatricians are essential in coordinating care and ensuring that the child receives appropriate referrals to the right specialists.
Developmental Pediatricians
A developmental pediatrician is a medical doctor who specializes in diagnosing and treating children with developmental, behavioral, and learning issues. These professionals are well-versed in conditions like autism and can conduct comprehensive evaluations.
Developmental pediatricians will assess your child’s developmental milestones, communication skills, social interactions, and behavior patterns.
They may also perform medical evaluations to rule out other conditions that may mimic autism, such as hearing or vision problems, genetic conditions, or metabolic disorders. After conducting tests and gathering information, they will make a diagnosis or recommend further assessments.
Child Psychologists
Child psychologists, particularly those with expertise in developmental disorders, play an integral role in diagnosing autism. They use a combination of structured interviews, observation, and standardized assessment tools to evaluate a child’s cognitive, social, and emotional development.
Psychologists typically focus on evaluating the child’s behavior in various settings, including home and school, and may use tools like the Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule (ADOS), a gold standard in autism diagnosis.
These assessments help psychologists understand the child’s level of social interaction, communication skills, and patterns of repetitive behavior.
Child Neurologists
A child neurologist specializes in disorders of the nervous system, including brain and spinal cord conditions. While their primary focus is on neurological issues, they can be instrumental in diagnosing autism, particularly when there are concerns about a child’s neurological development.
Neurologists may conduct tests to rule out other neurological disorders that could be causing developmental delays or abnormal behavior. They can also help assess co-occurring conditions, such as epilepsy, that are commonly seen in children with autism.
Speech-Language Pathologists
Speech-language pathologists (SLPs) specialize in diagnosing and treating speech, language, and communication disorders.
Since communication challenges are one of the hallmark signs of autism, an SLP can be vital in assessing a child’s ability to speak, understand language, and engage in social communication.
SLPs will evaluate various aspects of communication, such as verbal expression, non-verbal communication, social language skills, and receptive language abilities. If a speech delay or language disorder is present, they may provide therapy and recommend communication strategies to support the child’s development.
Occupational Therapists
Occupational therapists (OTs) specialize in helping individuals develop the skills needed for daily living and functional tasks. In the context of autism, OTs assess sensory processing issues, fine and gross motor skills, and the ability to engage in everyday activities like eating, dressing, or writing.
Sensory sensitivities and motor difficulties are common in children with autism, and occupational therapy plays a crucial role in providing strategies to improve these skills.
An OT’s assessment is often part of the broader diagnostic process, particularly when sensory issues are a concern.
The Bottom Line
Diagnosing autism requires the expertise of several professionals, including pediatricians, psychologists, speech-language pathologists, and developmental pediatricians. Early diagnosis is crucial in providing the appropriate support and intervention, leading to improved outcomes for children with autism.
If you suspect that your child may have autism, reaching out to the right healthcare provider is the first step in getting the help your child needs. At Eagle’s Will ABA, we specialize in providing tailored ABA therapy in North Carolina, designed to support your child’s growth and development.
Our dedicated team uses evidence-based practices to ensure that your child receives the highest quality care. Contact us today to discuss how our personalized services can make a real difference in your child’s life.
Sources:
- https://www.autismspeaks.org/expert-opinion/getting-evaluated-autism-adult-where-go-who-see
- https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/autism/getting-diagnosed/how-to-get-diagnosed/
- https://www.verywellmind.com/who-can-diagnose-autism-in-adults-6748943
- https://www.webmd.com/brain/autism/how-do-doctors-diagnose-autism