Our Services

All of our services are performed by Board Certified or Board Certified Eligible individuals under the guidance of a NC Licensed Psychologist.

Diagnostic Evaluations:

Evaluations offered: ADOS – Autism Diagnostic Observation Scale
ADI-R – Autism Diagnostic Interview – Revised

Evaluators: Callie Plattner, MS, LPA, BCBA and Katrina Johnson, MA, LPA, BCBA

Services Included: Initial parent consultation and interview using the ADI-R, diagnostic evaluation with the child using the ADOS, written evaluation of testing results, and follow-up meeting to discuss treatment options and/or referrals.

We are now proud to announce that we will also be offering diagnostic evaluations at any of our clinic locations (Cary, Fayetteville, and Charlotte). Both clinicians available for diagnostic evaluations have completed intensive training in applied behavior analysis as well as completed training at North Carolina TEACCH Center to administer the ADOS. Please call the office at 919-371-2848 to schedule an appointment.

Diagnostic Evaluation utilizing the ADOS may be of benefit for children who have already completed the following process:

Screening:

A "well child" check-up at the doctor should include a developmental screening test. (This test is conducted to determine if the child is reaching all developmental milestones. If a child's doctor sees any of the possible indicators of autism as a result of a screening or a "well child checkup," further evaluation is necessary. In addition, the parents' own observations and concerns about their child's development are important in helping to screen a child for autism.

Parent Observation of Warning Signs:

Most often, autism is noticed and diagnosed during childhood; the symptoms can become clear by about age 3. While your child's pediatrician will perform well-baby and well-child exams to make sure he/she is developing normally, it's still important to know the warning signs and seek an autism diagnosis if you suspect that your child may meet these criteria.

Basic warning signs for children

Other evaluations should take place to rule out physical problems or health concerns:

• A full physical
• A hearing test
• Genetic testing
• A test for lead poisoning
• A neurological exam
• Blood work and other lab tests

Importance of an accurate diagnosis:

The first signs of autism are often noticed before the age of three and early diagnosis is critical. Once an accurate diagnosis is reached, a family can begin researching appropriate treatment options. This is critical, as a number of empirical research studies have showed that children who enter early intervention programs at younger ages may make greater gains than those who enter at a later age (Harris & Handleman, 2000; Sheinkop & Siegel, 1998). The first five years for children are key in their development and growth. If you have the opportunity to intervene therapeutically during this time, it can allow a child to learn new skills at a time when he/she is most able to grasp them. If a diagnosis of autism is found following the diagnostic evaluation, possible treatment options and referrals will be discussed with the family.

Consultation:

All Consultation services are provided in the child's home or within the clinic setting (depending on preference). Home based services are available throughout North Carolina. On-site services are provided at our clinic settings in Cary, Fayetteville and Charlotte. Consultation services are performed by a Board Certified Consultant under the guidance of a NC Licensed Psychologist. Services include, but are not limited to, program planning, direct supervision/training of program staff, program updates and group training/seminars.

Tutoring:

Functional Language Tutors provide intense 1:1 training under the direct programming of a Board Certified Consultant. Consultation and family training are provided in conjunction with 1:1 Tutoring. Both clinic-based and home-based services are available.

TriCare/ECHO Authorized Services:

All services are performed by a Board Certified or Board Certified Eligible individuals under the guidance of a NC Licensed Psychologist. The Extended Care Health Option (ECHO) is a supplemental program to the basic TRICARE program. ECHO provides financial assistance for an integrated set of services and supplies to eligible active duty family members (including family members of activated National Guard or Reserve members).

Eligibility for TriCare Autism Demonstration Project:

1. Age 18 months and older
2. Registered in the Extended Care Health Option (ECHO)
3. Diagnosed with one of the following:

• Autistic Disorder (AD)
• Childhood Disintegrative Disorder (CDD)
• Asperger's Syndrome (AS)
• Pervasive Developmental Disorder Not Otherwise Specified (PDDNOS)

Note: If diagnosed before this demonstration began (March 15, 2008), children do not need to be re-diagnosed.

To inquire about TriCare programs please speak to your local TriCare representative. You must be preapproved through ECHO prior to beginning services.

Standard ECHO Program:

Services are provided by a BCaBA or BCBA.  Services include, but are not limited to, programming, training, tutoring and consultation. Carolina Center for ABA and Autism Treatment submits claims for services and families are responsible for their pre-determined, monthly co-pay.

ECHO Demonstration Project:

Functional Language Tutors provide intense 1:1 training under the direct programming of a Board Certified Consultant. Consultation and family training are provided in conjunction with 1:1 Tutoring. Both clinic-based and home-based services are available. All services must be pre-authorized by Tricare/ECHO. Carolina Center for ABA and Autism Treatment submits claims for services and families are responsible for their pre-determined, monthly co-pay.

Training & Seminars:

Training:

Individualized trainings are available for small and large groups. Consultants are also available to contract with local school systems and districts nationwide. All services performed by a Board Certified individual and supervised by a NC licensed Psychologist.

Seminars:

Small and large group seminars are available on and off site. For a listing of our upcoming events please click here: Introduction to Applied Behavior Analysis - Cary Location