Autism Evaluation & Diagnosis Guidance

Answers You Deserve.  Support You Can Trust.


The possibility that your child may be on the autism spectrum brings a flood of questions, fears, and what-ifs.



We'll guide you to trusted diagnosticians, help you understand the process, and once your child has a diagnosis, we'll be right here, ready to move forward together.

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Insurances we accept

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Early Signs of Autism at Every Age

The Earlier, The Better

When it comes to autism and getting your child the help they need, every day makes a difference. Here’s a guide to signs to watch for at different developmental stages:

Infants (0-1 Year)

  • Limited Eye Contact

  • Not Responding to Name

  • Few Facial Expressions

  • Lack of Imitation


Toddlers (1-2 Years)

  • Delayed Speech

  • Limited Gestures (e.g., pointing, waving)

  • Difficulty Playing with Others

  • Repetitive Actions (e.g., spinning objects)


Preschool (3-4 Years)

  • Challenges with Social Interaction

  • Repetitive Behaviors (e.g., hand flapping)

  • Echolalia (repeating words/phrases)

  • Inconsistent Responses to Sounds

  • Limited Pretend Play


School-Age (4-6 Years)

  • Difficulty Understanding Social Cues

  • Intense Focus on Specific Topics

  • Sensitivity to Sensory Stimuli

  • Resistance to Change in Routine

  • Trouble Making Friends


Seeing some of these signs? A diagnosis is not an end—it’s the beginning of real support and growth.

From Questions to Clarity—What to Expect in an Autism Evaluation

An autism evaluation is a detailed and structured process used to determine whether a child meets the criteria for Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). While a formal diagnosis must come from a qualified third-party specialist (such as a child psychologist or developmental pediatrician), Steady Strides guides families through this process and helps connect you with trusted diagnosticians.

Developmental & Medical  History Review

We help families organize and understand the developmental and medical information typically requested during a diagnostic evaluation, ensuring you feel confident and prepared.

Standardized Autism  Assessment Tests

Tools such as the ADOS (Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule) and  CARS-2 (Childhood Autism Rating Scale) are commonly used by diagnostic specialists to observe and measure specific social, communicative, and behavioral traits.

Behavioral Observation &  Play-Based Assessment

As part of our therapy-planning process, our team conducts behavioral and play-based assessments to better understand your child’s communication, strengths, and support needs in a natural, child-friendly setting.

Parent & Caregiver  Interviews

You know your child best. We involve you at every step to gather insights that support both the diagnostic process and the creation of meaningful ABA therapy goals.

Clear Guidance &  Next Steps

Once your child receives a formal diagnosis from a qualified specialist, we walk you through the results and provide clear, compassionate guidance on next steps — including ABA therapy options tailored to your child.

Pediatric Autism Assessment Services

Early Understanding. Stronger Outcomes.


Our team provides pediatric autism–focused assessments designed to help create individualized ABA therapy goals. For formal pediatric diagnostic evaluations, we can connect you with trusted diagnosticians. These assessments support children from 18 months through early adolescence and give families a clear starting point for effective, personalized care.



If you’re searching for pediatric autism assessments near me or want clarity on your child’s support needs, Steady Strides offers:

Gentle, child-centered assessment environments

Evaluators trained in working with young children

A collaborative approach that keeps parents informed and involved

In-home or center-based options for flexibility

For many parents, their child’s first autism diagnosis was the moment everything finally made sense—and support became real.

What Makes Our Autism Assessment Process Stand Out?

At Steady Strides ABA, we go beyond checking boxes. We treat every child as the person they can become and every family as a partner.


Here’s what sets our autism assessments apart:


No Waitlist Headaches

We know time matters. That’s why we offer fast access to pediatric autism-focused assessments — no six-month waitlist here.

We Guide You Every Step

From your first phone call through the assessment process and beyond, we walk with you. Confused about how to get a formal autism diagnosis? We'll connect you with qualified diagnosticians and explain the process clearly.

Insurance Support from Day One

Navigating insurance can be daunting. Our team helps you understand what’s covered and handles the paperwork.

A Pathway to ABA Therapy

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If your child is diagnosed, we’ll offer a seamless transition to our personalized ABA therapy programs. No need to start over somewhere new.

We Only Assess Children

Unlike some centers, our focus is 100% pediatric. That means our assessments, environment, and team are all built around children’s needs.

Autism Assessments Offered at Steady Strides

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Initial Autism Screening

Quick, informal screenings to determine if a full evaluation is needed.

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Diagnostic Referrals & Support

We connect you with qualified third-party specialists who can provide a formal ASD diagnosis, and we guide you through understanding the process and what to expect.

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Re-Evaluations

For children who already have a diagnosis and need updated assessments for school, therapy, or medical services.

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ABA Evaluations

Once diagnosed, our Board Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBAs) conduct detailed ABA assessments to create a customized treatment plan.

Hear Feedback from Families Like Yours

— Shoshana M., Parent

“We were nervous going into the process, but the team at Steady Strides was so warm and thorough. We finally got the answers we needed—and a clear plan for moving forward.”

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— Levi T., Parent

“Steady Strides made getting an autism diagnosis feel empowering, not scary. They didn’t just test our son—they saw him for who he is.”

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Serving Families Across Texas and New Mexico

Whether you’re searching for an autism evaluation near you or need guidance on how to get an autism diagnosis, our team is here for you. 

We serve children across Texas with in-home, in-clinic, and school options—whatever works best for your family.

Autism Diagnosis in Texas

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Autism Diagnosis in New Mexico

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Frequently Asked Questions

  • How do I get an autism diagnosis for my child?

    Start by contacting our team. We'll help connect you with qualified third-party diagnosticians (such as child psychologists or developmental pediatricians) and guide you through every step of the evaluation process

  • What’s included in an autism assessment?

    Our comprehensive autism assessments focus on understanding your child’s strengths, behaviors, and support needs. They include developmental history, caregiver input, direct observation, and therapy-focused assessments to help create individualized ABA therapy goals. The process is tailored to your child’s unique needs.

  • Do you offer autism evaluations near me?

    Steady Strides ABA provides pediatric autism-focused assessments throughout Texas and New Mexico. We offer in-person and virtual options depending on your location and preference. For formal autism diagnoses, we connect families with trusted third-party specialists and guide you through the process.

  • At what age can a child be diagnosed with autism?

    Children can be diagnosed as early as 18 months. If you’re wondering about signs or the right time for an evaluation, our team is here to help you make an informed decision.

  • Is a diagnosis required to begin ABA therapy?

    Yes, an official autism spectrum disorder diagnosis from a qualified third-party specialist is required before beginning ABA therapy. Once you have a diagnosis, our team will conduct our own assessment to create a personalized ABA treatment plan.

  • How long does the autism evaluation process take?

    The full evaluation typically takes 1–3 sessions, depending on the child. Afterward, we’ll schedule a feedback meeting to review results and next steps.

  • What if my child was diagnosed somewhere else—can we still begin therapy with you?

    Absolutely. We accept existing autism diagnosis documentation as long as it meets clinical standards. Our intake team will review your materials and guide you forward.

  • Do you diagnose adults with autism?

    At this time, Steady Strides ABA specializes in pediatric autism assessments. If you’re seeking an adult diagnosis, we’re happy to refer you to trusted providers.

  • What makes your autism assessment process different?

    We combine clinical excellence with warmth and family-centered care. Our assessments are thorough, personalized, and designed to empower caregivers with clear answers and real next steps.

  • How do I get started?

    Simply contact us here or call our intake team to schedule your initial consultation. We’ll walk with you every step of the way.

Hope starts with answers—and answers start here.

It only takes one step to start finding answers. Let us help guide your family through the autism diagnosis journey with clarity, care, and confidence.