Autism Assessment
in Ottawa
Getting clarity on your child’s needs starts with the right assessment.
Trust the specialists who truly understand Autism Spectrum Disorder.
The Signs of Autism Show At A Young Age
Getting an official diagnosis as early as possible is crucial for getting them the support and treatment they need to reach their full potential later in life. Signs of Autism Spectrum Disorder can appear at a very young age and can be detected in children as young as 18 months old, yet the disorder can sometimes go undiagnosed until they are teenagers or even adults. The following are some of the most easily identified signs that a child has ASD.
- They avoid eye contact.
- They show little interest in other children or caretakers.
- They only display a limited amount of communication.
- They get upset at minor changes to their routine
If you notice any of these behaviours in your child, contact us right away for a professional assessment to determine if your child has Autism Spectrum Disorder.
Waystone’s Straightforward but Powerful Process of Growth
Our experience enables us to offer families a straightforward path to answers. That said, you can rest assured we don’t use a cookie-cutter approach, every child gets the individualized attention they deserve.
Book an Appointment
With Us
Now that you’ve gotten to know us,
why not schedule an appointment
to get the journey started?
Start the Assessment
Process
We begin by discussing your child’s development, behaviours, and the specific signs you’ve noticed, building a full picture.
Identify Areas for Improvement
After the assessment, we will begin
working on areas for improvement & coping strategies.
Improve Functioning and Quality of Life
We’ll do a deep dive together,
isolating specific challenges and
finding effective solutions.
Waystone Psychology: A Team That Understands Autism
A diagnosis affects more than a single appointment, it can shape your child’s confidence, friendships, and how supported they feel at school and at home. That’s why our psychologists don’t just run a test and hand you a report. We work with you to turn the results into real strategies that fit your family, not a one-size-fits-all plan.
Book an assessment with our team today and take the first step toward understanding your child, and getting them the support they need.
Why an Early, Accurate Diagnosis Matters?
Autism varies widely in its severity and symptoms. A correct diagnosis and early identification considerably increase the odds of optimal results by providing appropriate educational supports, treatments, and intervention at an early stage.
Autism can only be officially diagnosed by an expert. Getting your child an official diagnosis is vital for two reasons. First, the government and insurance companies may be able to provide your child with assistance and services. Second, there are additional disorders that are linked to autism but require distinct therapies that need to be watched out for. Following an autism diagnosis, Our Waystone psychologists will work with the healthcare team for evaluation and therapy recommendations.
Early intervention is more likely to result in favourable outcomes than treatment received later in life or not at all. Contact us today!
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Autism Spectrum Disorder a lifetime illness?
Yes, ASD is a lifetime illness that has no cure. However, with a proper support system and ongoing treatment, a child with Autism Spectrum Disorder can grow up to lead an independent, productive and fulfilling life.
What areas of life are most affected by ASD?
All children with Autism Spectrum Disorder are greatly affected in three core areas of development including:
- Social interaction
- Verbal & Non-verbal communication
- The presence of repetitive & restrictive patterns of behaviours and interests
Can symptoms of Autism Spectrum Disorder get worse?
If left untreated, symptoms of ASD can worsen as the child gets older. Early childhood (Age 0-5) is when the most rapid development happens in a person’s life. This is also the time when the most drastic changes in ASD symptoms can be experienced. That is why it is extremely important to catch the signs of ASD as early as possible, get a diagnosis and treatment if necessary.
Is there a typical age where Autism Spectrum Disorder becomes present?
There is no set age where Autism can be detected for each child, however many children with autism will start presenting signs of Autism Spectrum Disorder as young as 18 months. With that said, children can go undiagnosed into their teens and adulthood.
If you think you or a loved one may have Autism Spectrum Disorder, and would like to receive a professional assessment, contact Waystone Psychology to learn more about our assessment process today.
What are some symptoms of Autism Spectrum Disorder?
There are several symptoms of Autism Spectrum Disorder including but not limited to:
- Avoiding eye contact
- Demonstrating little interest in other children or caretakers
- Only displaying a limited amount of verbal and nonverbal communication
- Getting frustrated or upset at minor changes to their routine
To learn more about Autism Spectrum Disorder, treatment plans or our assessment process, contact Waystone Psychology today!