Autism Diagnosis Orange County

Our network of diagnosis professionals provides autism screenings by phone and developmental evaluations for autism spectrum disorders (ASD) or other developmental disabilities. Depending on your location, we have several diagnostician partnerships with little to no waiting time. This is one of ways we can support you and your family to start the services that best meet your family’s needs. We are able to help your family obtain an autism diagnosis in Orange County, CA. We are also here to help if your family needs an autism diagnosis in Los Angeles County. We are here for you every step of the way, from diagnosis, to treatment, to graduation from treatment!

What is Applied Behavior Analysis?

Imagine your child making life-changing progress, improving positive behavior, communication skills, social skills, independence, and many other skills. That’s what we do! Applied Behavior Analysis, ABA, is a therapy that helps children to become the best version of themselves. ABA can be started once a diagnosis is obtained.

Process: Diagnosis >> ABA Assessment (FBA) >> ABA Treatment

Diagnosis:

The first step is diagnosis. CalOptima members need a diagnosis of Autism or ANY diagnosis (example: ADHD, Down’s Syndrome, etc.) with a recommendation by the doctor for ABA. Other insurances such as Anthem Blue Cross, Aetna, MHN, Healthnet, and Blue Shield Magellan require a diagnosis of Autism and a recommendation for ABA in order to be authorized by the insurance.

Diagnosis Document Requirements by Insurance Companies:

CalOptima’s requirements of the diagnosis documents are: (1) Diagnosis (2) Diagnosis code (3) Recommendation for ABA Applied Behavior Analysis (4) Signature of doctorate level diagnosing physician (PsyD, PhD, MD, DO) (5) Notes about why the diagnosis was given (e.g., observations, assessments) (6) for the initial diagnosis to be within the last 2 years, or a recent confirmation of the diagnosis in the last 2 years.

Other insurances such as Anthem Blue Cross, Aetna, MHN, Healthnet, and Blue Shield Magellan require (1) Diagnosis (2) Recommendation for ABA Applied Behavior Analysis (3) Notes about why the diagnosis was given (e.g., observations, assessments) (4) for the initial diagnosis to be within the last 2 years, or a recent confirmation of the diagnosis in the last 2 years. Some insurances require a re-diagnosis every 2 years. Insurances change these requirements often. Please check with your insurance directly to confirm this is accurate information.

Insurance:

When using insurance, make sure you check that the office is “in-network” with your insurance. Acuity Behavior Solutions is in-network with Anthem Blue Cross, Aetna, CalOptima, MHN, Healthnet, and Blue Shield Magellan.

CalOptima Members with Cal-Optima Insurance: Cal-Optima patients can obtain an Autism evaluation from a Psychologist or MD for free. Feel free to contact us if you have any questions!

Autism Diagnosis Information

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental condition characterized by variations in the brain. While some individuals with ASD have identifiable genetic factors, other causes remain unknown. It is believed that ASD arises from a combination of factors that influence typical developmental processes. Our understanding of these causes and their impact on individuals with ASD is still evolving.

People with ASD often exhibit unique patterns of behavior, communication, social interaction, and learning that differ from the majority. However, their physical appearance is typically indistinguishable from others. The abilities of individuals with ASD can vary greatly, ranging from advanced conversational skills to nonverbal communication. While some individuals require substantial support in their daily lives, others can function independently with minimal assistance.

ASD typically manifests before the age of 3 and can persist throughout a person’s lifetime, although symptoms may improve over time. Some children may display signs of ASD within their first year, while in others, symptoms may emerge around 2 years of age or later. It is not uncommon for children with ASD to exhibit progress and reach developmental milestones until approximately 18 to 24 months, after which they may experience a plateau or regression in skills previously acquired.

During adolescence and young adulthood, individuals with ASD may encounter challenges in forming and maintaining friendships, communicating effectively with peers and adults, and understanding social expectations in educational and work settings. They may also exhibit comorbid conditions such as anxiety, depression, or attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, which are more prevalent in individuals with ASD compared to those without the disorder.

Source: CDC Center for Disease Control (Link: https://www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/autism/index.html)

Contact us today to schedule an appointment for your life-changing pre-screening, diagnosis and ABA therapy.

Find out how we can help you or your child with ABA therapy to increase your child’s skills and decrease problem behaviors. ABA has been shown to be highly effective in numerous studies, and our quality ABA program has helped hundreds of children to meet goals, improve skills, and increase overall independence. Call us to set up an appointment!