Who is qualified to diagnose autism

Being able to distinguish between ASD and another condition is called making a differential diagnosis. A Developmental Pediatrician is a pediatrician who has advanced training in developmental-behavioral medicine.

Developmental Pediatricians evaluate, counsel, and provide treatment for children, adolescents, and their families with a wide range of developmental and behavioral difficulties, including ASD. A Pediatric Neurologist is a pediatrician who has advanced training in pediatric neurology. I Accept Show Purposes. Was this page helpful?

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Child Psychiatrist: Expertise, Specialties, and Training. Autism and Childhood Deafness. What's the Difference Between Autism and Bipolar? This page gives you an overview. For more information, select from the menu above or the guide links below. Our online community is a place for autistic people and their families to meet like-minded people and share their experiences.

Our site uses cookies for key functions and to give you the best experience. Use cookie settings to control which cookies are allowed or click on Allow Optional Cookies to allow all cookies. For more detailed information please see our cookie policy. Psychiatrists differ from psychologists in that they are licensed physicians and they can prescribe medication while psychologists cannot with a few exceptions. Child psychiatrists must meet rigorous education and training criteria before earning a license.

This includes:. This could include medication, behavioral therapy, or a combination of the two. Child psychiatrists can diagnose and treat the following mental health conditions:. Pediatric neurologists are medical doctors who treat children with conditions caused by problems in their nervous system. Those problems can begin in the spine, muscles, nerves, or the brain itself, and can cause developmental delays , headaches, or seizures.

Pediatric neurologists complete the following education and training:. Among other things, pediatric neurologists can diagnose and treat the following conditions :. Even if your child has a different developmental or mental disorder, the correct doctor can diagnose and help your child receive treatment. If your child does have autism, the right doctor can help you find avenues for treatment. At Therapeutic Pathways certified behavior analysts work to help children grow and develop to catch up with their peers.

For more information, call Therapeutic Pathways at Your answers indicate that your child may be best treated in the Readiness program. This individualized, evidence-based program teaches young children skills they need to accelerate their learning and gain independence.

Using imitation and naturalistic learning techniques, your child will develop useful skills in the areas of speech and language, cognition, and self-awareness. A program for children ages Please contact Therapeutic Pathways at to discuss which program would best suit your child. Your answers indicate that your child may be best treated in the Foundations program. Your answers indicate that your child may be best treated in the Breakthroughs program.

Specifically designed for children who have limited hours due to school schedules, this program removes life barriers by developing communication, social, and self-help skills. We teach your child to engage in appropriate behaviors, helping them interact with peers and develop relationships.