Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) affects how people of all ages communicate, learn and engage with the world around them. If you’re concerned about how your child behaves or how they interact with others, we’re here to help.
At the Thompson Center for Autism and Neurodevelopment, we specialize in diagnosing ASD and providing family-centered care and support. Because autism is a complex condition that affects each person differently, we use a team of specialists across different fields, including:
- Developmental and behavioral pediatricians: Experts in creating personalized care plans for kids of all ages with ASD.
- Neuropsychologists and child psychologists: Use evidence-based tools to diagnose and understand your child’s condition.
- Genetic counselors: Identify genetic differences that can help clarify your child’s specific needs.
- Psychiatrists: Provide evaluation, medical management and other intervention services.
- Speech-language pathologists and occupational therapists: Help maximize your child’s communication, motor and social skills through personalized therapies.
- Behavior analysts: Provide evidence-based behavioral support.
- Social workers: Can connect your family with resources at your child’s school and in the community.
Our team is widely respected not only for clinical care, but also for community education, professional training and autism research.
Autism Symptoms
Children are born with autism, although the signs may not appear until the toddler years or even later. Some signs your child may have autism include:
- Rocking their body or other repetitive movements
- Repeating words
- Difficulty maintaining eye contact
- Not showing facial expressions or noticing other people’s emotions
- Being highly sensitive to different textures, sounds or smells
- Following rituals like lining up toys before bed
- Having dramatic reactions to changes in routine
- Obsessing over specific topics or objects
Importantly, having one or even several of these signs doesn’t necessarily mean your child has autism.
When to See an Autism Specialist
Many pediatricians screen for autism when your toddler is 18 months old and again at 24 months old. However, not all pediatricians are experts in screening for or diagnosing autism.
Our specially trained pediatricians know what to look for, so your family can get answers. If you’re concerned about your child’s development, ask for a referral from your pediatrician, or reach out to us directly. The earlier we can assess your child’s development, the sooner your family can get the support you need.
Autism Diagnosis at MU Health Care
At the Thompson Center, diagnosing autism begins with a thorough evaluation that can take up to four hours, depending on your child’s age and needs. Our diagnostic team includes:
- Developmental and behavioral pediatricians: Assess your child based on certain milestones as they grow.
- Neuropsychologists and child psychologists: Evaluate your child’s thinking, emotions and social skills.
- Occupational therapists: Check your child for sensory issues and other functions that can be affected by autism.
- Speech-language pathologists: Study your child’s listening, communication and social skills.
- Behavior analysts: Assess your child’s behavior, habits and coping skills.
After a parent interview, we’ll use several evidence-based tools to evaluate your child’s behavior. One is called the Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule 2 (ADOS-2), which assesses kids in various settings.
Genetic Testing and Counseling for Autism
Genetic variants are linked to up to 30% to 40% of autism cases. At MU Health Care, we offer genetic counseling and testing, which can identify certain genetic variants that may cause certain symptoms of autism. Tests available include:
- Chromosomal microarray: Looks for missing or extra chromosomes associated with genetic disorders.
- Whole exome sequencing (WES) and whole genome sequencing (WGS): Advanced genetic tests that can identify rare genetic variants and guide care.
- Fragile X DNA testing: Checks for a specific gene that causes a syndrome with autism-like symptoms.
Your first meeting with our pediatric geneticist takes about one hour. We’ll take your child’s family history and medical history and perform an examination. Testing usually involves swabbing the inside of your child’s cheek to collect their DNA (genetic material).
When we have the results, we’ll explain the findings and offer guidance on next steps. With more information, you and your care team can make better decisions about your child’s care.
