If you have noticed signs that your child may be on the autism spectrum, taking that first step toward a formal diagnosis can feel both urgent and daunting. The process involves several steps and can take time, but understanding what to expect makes it much more manageable. This guide walks you through how to get an autism diagnosis in Arizona and Colorado, so you can move forward with clarity and confidence.
Step 1: Talk to Your Child’s Pediatrician
The process almost always starts with your child’s primary care physician. Pediatricians perform routine developmental screenings at well-child visits using standardized tools like the M-CHAT (Modified Checklist for Autism in Toddlers). If your child shows signs that warrant further evaluation, your pediatrician can provide a referral to a specialist.
If you have concerns between scheduled visits, do not wait. Call your pediatrician and ask for a developmental screening appointment. Early identification leads to earlier access to support, and that matters.
Step 2: Get a Referral for a Formal Evaluation
A formal autism evaluation is conducted by a licensed specialist, typically a developmental pediatrician, child psychologist, or neuropsychologist. Your pediatrician will refer you to an appropriate evaluator based on your child’s age, presenting concerns, and what’s available in your area.
For families asking how to get an autism diagnosis in Arizona, Phoenix and Tucson both have developmental specialists and multidisciplinary teams at children’s hospitals and private practices. For autism assessment in Denver, Colorado and surrounding areas, options include developmental pediatricians, university-affiliated clinics, and private psychology practices.
Step 3: The Autism Evaluation Process
Autism testing in Phoenix, AZ and Denver, Colorado typically involves a comprehensive evaluation that may include:
A detailed developmental history: The evaluator will ask you extensive questions about your child’s development from birth, including language milestones, social behaviors, sensory responses, and any regression or change you have noticed over time.
Standardized assessment tools: Evaluators use tools like the ADOS-2 (Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule) and the ADI-R (Autism Diagnostic Interview, Revised) to observe and measure your child’s behaviors and communication patterns.
Additional assessments: Depending on your child’s profile, the evaluator may also assess cognitive ability, adaptive behavior, language skills, or sensory processing.
Observation: Direct observation of your child, both in structured and unstructured settings, is a key component of any thorough autism evaluation.
Step 4: Receiving the Diagnosis
After the evaluation is complete, the specialist will meet with you to discuss their findings. If your child meets the criteria for autism spectrum disorder, you will receive a written report documenting the diagnosis, the assessment data used to support it, and recommendations for next steps.
Getting an autism diagnosis for your child in Arizona or Colorado can bring a mix of emotions. It is okay to feel relief, grief, confusion, or hope, sometimes all at once. What matters most is that a diagnosis opens doors to support and services your child may not have been able to access before.
Step 5: Connect with ABA Therapy Services
Once your child has a formal diagnosis, one of the most important next steps is connecting with an ABA therapy provider. ABA therapy is widely recognized as one of the most effective, evidence-based treatments for autism. It helps children build communication, social, self-care, and behavioral skills in a structured, supportive way.
At GreenLight ABA, we work with newly diagnosed children and their families to create individualized treatment plans based on each child’s specific strengths and goals. We serve families in Arizona, including Phoenix and Tucson, and in Colorado, including Denver and Colorado Springs.
How Long Does the Autism Diagnosis Process Take?
Waitlists for autism evaluations can be long, particularly in high-demand areas like Phoenix and Denver. It is common for families to wait several months for an evaluation appointment. During that waiting period, do not feel like you have to stand still. Talk to your child’s school about support services, document your observations, and reach out to local autism organizations for guidance.
In some cases, families are able to begin ABA therapy services while the formal diagnosis is pending, depending on their insurance plan and the clinical recommendation of the evaluating provider. Ask about this when you contact potential ABA providers.
You Do Not Have to Navigate This Alone
The path to an autism diagnosis and beyond can feel isolating, but it does not have to be. GreenLight ABA is here to support your family from the very beginning. Whether you have questions about where to get an autism evaluation in Tucson, AZ or Denver, CO, or you are ready to start therapy as soon as your child is diagnosed, our team is ready to help.
Call us at 877-881-3090 or email info@greenlightaba.com to learn more. We are honored to walk alongside your family on this journey.