Diagnostic Evaluation

Diagnosing Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)

At the Henry Ford Center for Autism and Developmental Disabilities (CADD), we provide diagnostic appointments for children ages 1-18, where we assess each child and establish or rule out a diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder (ASD). We also can diagnose a variety of other developmental disorders, such as attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), communication disorders, and anxiety disorders.

What happens at the diagnostic session?

Each child is evaluated through a parent interview, direct observations, physical examinations, and diagnostic tools.  The evaluation team reviews your child’s medical records and reports from your child’s school.  Depending on your child’s age and symptoms, a specific team will be selected for your child’s diagnostic evaluation.  Your team may include the following providers:

• Child Psychiatrist
• Neurologist
• Neuropsychologist
• Pediatrician
• Speech-Language Pathologist

How is the diagnostic evaluation different at CADD?

Our diagnostic appointment is a one-day, multidisciplinary evaluation, followed by a feedback appointment soon after.

What happens at the feedback appointment?

A few weeks after the diagnostic appointment is completed, the family meets at a separate feedback appointment with one of the providers to:

• Share diagnosis and review results
• Offer treatment recommendations/resources
• Provide family with a copy of the diagnostic reports

Frequently Asked Questions

Where are diagnostic appointments offered?

Diagnostic appointments are only done virtually. We currently are not offering in-person appointments. For information about virtual diagnostic appointments, please call (313) 972-9009.

What is the wait time for a diagnostic appointment?

The wait time varies. For more information, please call (313) 972-9009 and speak with the scheduling coordinator.