Before any therapy starts, we time with your child - getting to know what they're good at and what's hard for them. An assessment is how we work out where to start.
Charting the course
A warm, play-based way to begin
Our assessments come in two forms - but both are careful, friendly looks at how your child communicates, plays, learns, and moves through the day. Depending on what your family needs, it can cover where their skills are now, why the hardest behaviors are happening, and what your everyday routines look like from your side.
We do it where your child is most at ease - at home, on the floor, with familiar toys. When we're done, we send you a written report in plain words - your child's goals, and the paperwork your insurance needs to authorize therapy.
Our ADOS-2 (Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule) assesments are for when you're seeking a diagnosis. It's a play-based observation we do at home. You get a written report to share with your child's physician.
You've noticed something and want clear, caring answers about your child's development.
You have a diagnosis and need an assessment to build a therapy plan and start services.
Your child has grown, and it's time to refresh the plan to match where they are now.
A quick, friendly call. We answer your questions and explain what to expect - no commitment.
We come to your home and spend time getting to know your child where they're comfortable.
Through play and a conversation with you, we map strengths, challenges, and goals.
A clear, plain-language report with individualized goals and next steps you understand.
All of our therapy happens in your home and community, so the first question is whether we reach your town. Type it in and find out.
You don't need a referral to call us. We'll talk through your situation, and if your insurance does require a physician's referral, we'll help you get it - and we'll fill in the paperwork with you.
It varies by child, but most assessments involve one or two in-home visits of about an hour or two each, plus time for us to write up your report. We never rush a child to finish on a clock.
We design assessments to feel like play, not a test. Sessions happen at home with familiar toys, and we follow your child's lead. Most kids enjoy it.
Yes, and that's common. A diagnosis tells us your child is autistic. An assessment tells us which skills to work on first, and in what order. If you're still seeking a diagnosis, that's a different visit: the ADOS-2, a play-based observation with a written report for your child's physician.
In most cases, yes. We accept TennCare and major plans and will verify your benefits before we begin, so you know what to expect with no surprises.
Ready to talk?
Let's take the first step together.
We'll tell you what happens next, and what it would cost. That's the whole first call.
Schedule a consultationAn assessment naturally leads into a personalized ABA plan - and often into parent coaching and school support too.
