Autism Assessment

Getting the Help You Need

The Autism Assessment process at Parsons Counseling provides a compassionate, evidence-based process to help individuals and families gain clarity and direction. Unlike a simple screening or checklist, our comprehensive evaluations explore communication patterns, social interaction, behavior, and sensory processing to create a full picture of how a person experiences the world. Each assessment is tailored to the individual—whether a child, teen, or adult—and is conducted by trained clinicians using validated tools. The goal is understanding, not labeling: we help identify strengths, clarify needs, and provide meaningful recommendations that support growth, confidence, and everyday well-being.

Understanding Autism

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a developmental condition that affects how a person communicates, learns, and experiences the world. Because autism exists on a spectrum, every individual’s strengths and challenges look different. Common signs include differences in social interaction, communication, routines, or sensitivity to sounds, sights, and textures. Early and accurate assessment helps individuals and families understand these differences and find the right supports.

At Parsons Counseling, we approach autism assessment with care, respect, and collaboration—using evidence-based tools to provide clear insights, guide next steps, and connect you with meaningful resources.

What to Expect in an Autism Assessment

An autism assessment is a thoughtful and supportive process designed to understand how you or your child experiences the world. Our clinicians use a combination of interviews, standardized tools, observations, and developmental history to create a clear and personalized picture.

The process typically begins with an intake appointment to gather background information and concerns. From there, we conduct structured assessments and follow up with a feedback session to discuss results and recommendations.

Our goal is not just to determine whether autism is present, but to identify personal strengths, learning styles, and areas that may benefit from support. We believe every assessment should lead to greater understanding, practical next steps, and a sense of direction for the future.

Resources

Trusted National Resources

• Autism Speaks – Offers comprehensive information about autism, early signs, diagnosis, treatment options, and community supports.

• CDC – Learn the Signs. Act Early. – Provides developmental milestone checklists and guidance on early screening and diagnosis.

• National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) – Autism Spectrum Disorder – A reliable overview of autism research, treatment, and ongoing studies.

• Autistic Self Advocacy Network (ASAN) – Run by and for autistic individuals, focusing on inclusion, rights, and neurodiversity advocacy.

• Organization for Autism Research (OAR) – Offers practical guides for parents, educators, and individuals on topics like education, employment, and daily living

Family & Caregiver Resources

• HealthyChildren.org – Autism Spectrum Disorder – Developed by the American Academy of Pediatrics; great for parents looking for developmental guidance.

• Interactive Autism Network (IAN) – Research and community platform connecting families, clinicians, and researchers.

• Autism Navigator – Multimedia resources to help parents and professionals recognize and support early signs of autism.

Adult and Lifespan Resources

• Autism Self-Advocacy Network (ASAN) – Adult Resources – Advocacy and self-education materials for autistic adults.

• Job Accommodation Network (JAN) – Guidance on workplace accommodations for autistic adults.

• AANE (Asperger/Autism Network) – Support, education, and coaching for autistic adults, families, and professionals.

Kentucky-Specific Resources

• Kentucky Autism Training Center (KATC) – Offers family workshops, professional development, and state-wide resources.

• FEAT of Louisville (Families for Effective Autism Treatment) – A family-led nonprofit supporting individuals with autism in Kentucky.