Southwest Autism Research & Resource Center (SARRC) announced their first-ever Diagnostic Services Program where skilled clinicians work with individuals of all ages to accurately diagnose or rule out autism spectrum disorder (ASD).
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 1 in 59 children are identified with ASD. SARRC’s new Diagnostic Services Program will support the early identification of autism, as well as identify school-aged children, teens and adults who have never been diagnosed or previously misdiagnosed.
“We’re excited to offer this new service, which is in response to the growing need for more qualified professionals who can accurately diagnose autism,” said Vice President and Research Director Christopher Smith, Ph.D. “There are several practitioners in the Valley who perform evaluations, but most have long waitlists and only a few can serve individuals of all ages.”
SARRC licensed psychologists with expertise in diagnosing autism across the lifespan conduct most evaluations in one visit. The diagnostic process takes place at SARRC's Colonel Harland D. Sanders Center for Autism Studies in Phoenix and includes a developmental history interview with a parent or caregiver and direct interaction with the individual.
“An accurate diagnosis is key to connecting individuals to the services they need,” said President and CEO Daniel Openden, Ph.D., BCBA-D. “We want to help individuals and families gain access to the support they need to thrive in an inclusive community.”
In addition to the new diagnostic program, SARRC offers a wide range of services across the lifespan from early intervention to programs for helping adults with autism live more independently. After receiving a diagnosis, SARRC clinicians will help families identify individualized support and programs likely to improve outcomes and quality of life.
For more information about SARRC’s new Diagnostic Services Program visit autismcenter.org/diagnosis or call 602.606.9889.