Recognizing developmental, social, or behavioral differences in your child can bring a mix of concern, confusion, and urgency. When those differences begin to interfere with school, relationships, or day-to-day functioning, parents may begin to wonder if their child is on the autism spectrum. At Dr. Messina & Associates in Southlake and Flower Mound, we offer comprehensive psychological testing for Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) to help provide clarity, support, and a clear path forward.
What Is Autism Spectrum Disorder?
Autism Spectrum Disorder is a neurodevelopmental condition that affects how a child communicates, interacts, and behaves. The word “spectrum” reflects the wide range of symptoms and severity levels that children and teens with autism may experience. Some may have significant language delays or sensory sensitivities, while others might be highly verbal but struggle with social understanding and emotional regulation.
ASD can be diagnosed in children as early as age two, but many children—especially those with less apparent symptoms—are not identified until they are older. Early diagnosis and intervention are key to helping children develop social, emotional, and learning skills in a supportive and structured way.
Why Psychological Testing for Autism Is Important
A formal psychological evaluation offers more than just a diagnosis. It provides a deeper understanding of your child’s strengths, needs, and how they process the world. While teachers, parents, and caregivers may observe signs of autism, a professional evaluation is required for an accurate diagnosis and access to appropriate services.
Testing can answer questions such as:
- Why is my child struggling to connect with peers?
- Is there a reason for their difficulty with change or transitions?
- Could their sensory sensitivities be part of something more?
- Are their repetitive behaviors or restricted interests part of ASD?
By providing clear, research-supported results, psychological testing empowers families with knowledge and direction.
Signs That May Prompt an Autism Evaluation
Autism can present differently in every child, but there are common behaviors and patterns that may lead parents or professionals to seek an evaluation. Some of these include:
- Delayed speech and language development
- Limited eye contact or facial expressions
- Difficulty engaging in back-and-forth conversation
- Repetitive movements such as hand flapping or rocking
- Fixation on specific topics or routines
- Trouble adjusting to changes in environment or schedule
- Challenges with social play or making friends
- Heightened sensitivity to lights, sounds, or textures
These signs don’t automatically mean your child has autism—but they may suggest the need for further evaluation.
What Happens During Psychological Testing?
At Dr. Messina & Associates, psychological testing for autism is conducted by licensed psychologists trained in developmental and behavioral assessment. The process typically begins with a comprehensive intake, where we gather a detailed developmental history and learn more about the child’s behavior at home, in school, and in social settings.
Testing may include:
- Clinical interviews with parents or caregivers
- Behavioral observations during the assessment
- Standardized tests such as the ADOS-2 (Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule)
- Cognitive and developmental testing to evaluate thinking, learning, and memory
- Social-emotional assessments to explore mood, anxiety, or behavioral challenges
Our team takes care to ensure the environment is supportive, low-pressure, and child-friendly. The testing process is adapted to each child’s developmental level and communication abilities.
Personalized Feedback and Treatment Planning
After the evaluation, you’ll receive a detailed report outlining the findings, diagnosis (if applicable), and specific recommendations. We believe that providing families with understandable and actionable results is just as important as the testing itself.
If a diagnosis of autism is made, we’ll guide you through the next steps—whether that includes therapy, parent support, educational accommodations, or referrals to additional services. If autism is not diagnosed but another issue is identified (such as ADHD, anxiety, or a learning disorder), our clinicians will provide clear guidance and next steps based on those results.
Support Beyond the Diagnosis
A diagnosis of autism is not the end—it’s the beginning of more targeted and effective support for your child. Many children and teens on the spectrum can thrive when they receive the right interventions. From improving communication skills to enhancing emotional regulation and building social confidence, early and ongoing support makes a lasting difference.
At Dr. Messina & Associates, we offer therapy, counseling, and parent consultations to help your child build skills and resilience. We also provide psychiatric services when appropriate, ensuring a coordinated approach to care.
Schedule an Autism Evaluation in Southlake or Flower Mound
If you’re concerned your child may be on the autism spectrum, psychological testing is the most reliable path to clarity. Whether you’re a parent noticing early signs or a teacher recommending an evaluation, we’re here to help you take the next step.
Contact Dr. Messina & Associates in Southlake or Flower Mound to schedule a psychological evaluation for Autism Spectrum Disorder. We’re committed to supporting children, teens, and families with compassionate, evidence-based care—because every child deserves to be understood.
