
Childhood Autism Diagnosis and Treatment
The Autism Diagnostic Observation room was designed specifically to help diagnose autism (ADS) in children with and Autism Diagnostic Interview. Our program is designed to evaluate with an in-person assessment. The interactions and provided developmental history of your child will allow the clinician to utilize the Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule-2 (ADOS-2) series of activities involving to properly diagnose ADS as early as 12 months of age.
By observing and coding these behaviors, information can be attained for diagnosis of autism. Many evaluations using the ADOS-2 result in definitive ASD diagnoses based on DSM-5 criteria, though there are other conditions that could be causing ADS-like symptoms, and further neurological, psychological or genetic testing may be required for more complicated cases.
Childhood Autism Rating Scale
The childhood autism rating scale (CARS) helps diagnose children who may have autism. The childhood autism rating scale uses a 15 item-behavioral test that helps doctors determine where the child falls on the spectrum. The test is based on observations made by doctors, parents, and teachers.
After the CARS has been given to a child who may have autism, the score is then calculated and compared to a severity scale. The CARS can be delivered as early as 24 months for toddlers or later if the doctor feels the child’s symptoms warrant it.
ASD Treatment at Phoenix Psychiatry
Phoenix Psychiatry is an integrative childhood development center that supports children on the spectrum of autism and their families. Phoenix offers a wide range of services to empower your child to reach their fullest potential and facilitate healthy relationships. Our range of services include:
- Speech and language therapy
- Occupational therapy
- ABA therapy
- Parenting workshops
Related Autism Links
The Autism Research Institute’s mission is to support the health and well-being of people affected by autism through innovative, impactful research and education.
PlayAttention: Cognitive skill online activities which target a separate cognitive skill that is typically difficult for people with attention problems, to help build sound Executive Function.
The Asperger/Autism Network (AANE) helps people with Asperger’s or similar autism spectrum and neurodiverse profiles build meaningful, connected lives.
Autism Navigator is a unique collection of web-based tools and courses using extensive video footage to bring science to communities.



