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Autism Evaluations
Clarity.
Insight.
Empowerment.
Have you—or someone you care about—ever felt “different” without understanding why? Do you notice challenges in social situations, heightened sensitivity to sounds or textures, or a need for routines and repetition that others don’t seem to share? Maybe you’ve always felt like you’re on the outside looking in—but never had a name for it.
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Does your child or teen seem to struggle with social situations in ways others don’t? Do they show heightened sensitivity to noise, textures, or transitions? Maybe they’ve always felt different—but haven’t been able to explain why.
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At Heartwood Counseling and Wellness, we offer autism evaluations for individuals who are seeking clarity and a deeper understanding of how their brain works. Whether you’re a parent seeking answers for your child, or an adult exploring the possibility of autism later in life, we’re here to guide you through the process with compassion and expertise.
When Might Autism Testing Be Helpful?
An evaluation may be recommend when clients experience:
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*Ongoing difficulty with social connection or communication
*Sensory sensitivities to things like lights, sounds, clothing, or food
*Strong need for structure, repetition, or familiar routines
*Struggles with emotional regulation, especially in unpredictable situations
*A sense of always feeling "different" without knowing why
*Exhaustion or burnout from constantly masking or trying to fit in
For many people, especially those diagnosed later in life, an autism diagnosis brings relief, self-understanding, and new language to explain lifelong experiences. For children and teens, testing can lead to more appropriate support at school, home, and in therapy.
What's Involved?
*Clinical interviews to explore developmental, social, and emotional history
*Behavioral observations (play-based or conversational, depending on age)
*Self-report and parent-report questionnaires
*Rating scales completed by caregivers, teachers, or partners
*Standardized tools designed to assess autism traits in various age groups
*Review of relevant records, such as school evaluations or medical history
What Are the Benefits of an Autism Diagnosis?
Receiving an autism diagnosis can help:
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*Explain challenges and affirm strength
*Identify helpful supports in school, therapy, and everyday life
*Guide counseling goals and therapeutic accommodations
*Reduce shame and increase self-awareness
*Support a more authentic and empowered life path
Whether for a 10-year-old child learning to navigate friendships, a teen struggling with anxiety or sensory overload, or an adult looking for answers, the evaluation helps shape the roadmap for moving forward with clarity and confidence.​​
Who Conducts the Evaluations?
Autism evaluations at Heartwood Counseling and Wellness are conducted by Licensed Professional Counselors who have advanced training in psychological assessment and neurodiversity. Our clinicians have pursued specialized education well beyond the standard requirements for licensure and are actively involved in national organizations focused on autism-specific evaluation and best practices. They bring both expertise and a neurodiversity-affirming lens to every assessment.
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In accordance with the Texas Administrative Code, LPCs are authorized to administer assessments to diagnose and guide treatment planning for emotional, behavioral, and mental health conditions.
Mary Quattlebaum, LPC
Autistic Therapist
Specializing in
Autism Evaluations
Insight Over Labels
At Heartwood, we believe an evaluation is about more than a diagnosis. It’s a chance to gain insight, honor strengths, and identify the supports that will help each client thrive. Whether you're a parent seeking help for your child or an adult navigating questions about your own neurodivergence, we’re here to guide you with compassion and care.
