Autism Testing for kids 18 months to 18 years
The support your child needs to succeed in life
An autism evaluation from one of the country's leading autism specialists can open the door of support for your child. Early diagnosis is vital to your child's development, but regardless of age, you and your child benefit from a deeper understanding of how their mind works and views the world.
Not sure your kiddo needs an evaluation? Take Dr. Luisa's free autism screener.
WHY DR. LUISA
12+ years of autism testing
Dr. Luisa has diagnosed hundreds of kids in her 12 years as Lead Psychologist at Kaiser Permanente Colorado's Developmental Pediatrics & Autism Department.​​
20+ years working with autistic kids​
Dr. Luisa is a licensed clinical psychologist (PsyD). She uses the most effective tests like the ADOS-2, ADI-R, Bayley-4, Vineland-3, and WPPSI-IV, plus clinical interviews and observation.
Dr. Luisa tests for complex autism and ADHD. Already have an ADHD diagnosis that doesn't explain everything? Book a free consult with Dr. Luisa.
SOUND FAMILIAR?
Your Pediatrician said,"They're a little behind, but... let's wait and see."
Some parents have a gut feeling. Others hear concerns from a teacher or family member. Don't ignore the autism red flags:
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Not pointing, waving or showing you things
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Not talking in clear 2-word phrases by 3
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Doesn't look at you when you call their name
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Lines up toys, or plays the same way every time
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Big meltdowns over small changes
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Seems to be in their own world when playing or around peers
For a deeper dive on autism red flags, take Dr. Luisa's free autism screener.
HOW IT WORKS
Autism evaluation with Dr. Luisa
During testing, kiddos play. Dr. Luisa evaluates the interactions.
1. Free phone consult. Tell Dr. Luisa your concerns. Take her free autism screener to make the most of your call.​
2. Parent interview (pre-testing). Deep dive into your child's story: birth, milestones, sleep, school, and their typical day.
3. Play-based testing at her office. Your child plays while she observes using gold-standard tests like the ADOS-2. ​
4. Feedback session. Dr. Luisa walks you through the results in plain words, answers every question, and gives you a written report with a clear plan for what's next.
During Testing, Kiddos play.
AFTER THE EVALUATION
Not just a diagnosis. A plan.
Dr. Luisa is your psychologist from free consult call to final feedback. She also offers autism therapy and parent management training. Never handed off to a trainee or technician.
Clear next steps for home, school, and therapy, plus parent training when you want it.
Your child isn't a problem to fix. The focus is how they see the world and achieving success in their lives.
COST
Clear about cost, from the first call
Dr. Luisa is private pay. Her expertise determines which tests would be most beneficial for your child, not an insurance company. Cost depends on your child's age and tests needed. Get the exact price on your free consult call.
Free phone consultation. Talk through your concerns and get the exact cost of testing. No obligation, just a free call with an autism expert.
Ways to pay. HSA and FSA accepted. Superbills provided so you can ask your insurance about out-of-network reimbursement.
FAQ
Common Parent Questions
Is my child too young for an evaluation?
Evaluations start at 18 months. You don't have to wait until 3 or 4. Earlier answers mean earlier support.
How soon can we start?
Right away. Dr. Luisa is new to Steamboat Springs and currently has no waitlist. Book a free phone consult to get started.
Screening, Early Intervention, evaluation: what's the difference?
A screening flags whether to look closer. Early Intervention decides if your child qualifies for services, but it doesn't diagnose autism. An evaluation is a full assessment that determines whether it's autism or something else.
Psychologist or developmental pediatrician?
Both can diagnose autism. A licensed psychologist like Dr. Luisa is trained in detailed testing that tells autism apart from look-alikes such as anxiety, ADHD, or a speech delay, and she can support your family afterward with therapies and parent management training.
The school already evaluated my child. Why would I need this?
A school evaluation decides whether your child qualifies for school services and isn't a medical diagnosis. Dr. Luisa's reports are accepted by schools, pediatricians, psychiatrists, other psychologists, community providers, and insurers.
Do I need a referral?
No referral required. Book a free phone consult with Dr. Luisa to get started.​
How long is the evaluation? Will my toddler last?
It's built around play, at your child's pace. And there's plenty of snack breaks!
What if it isn't autism? And does a diagnosis mean medication?
Not autism is a real answer too: you'll learn what is going on and what to do next. And no, a diagnosis doesn't mean medication.
Does Dr. Luisa do ABA?
No. If ABA is needed, she'll help you find a trusted local provider.