The ADOS-2Autism SpectrumDiagnostic Observation
The Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule, Second Edition (ADOS-2), is a face-to-face assessment that helps professionals evaluate for possible autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Our trained teammates observe your child's communication and behavior to support accurate diagnosis.
Cognitive Assessment
Evaluation of learning and processing patterns
Social Communication
Understanding interaction and social behaviors
Behavioral Patterns
Recognizing repetitive and restricted behaviors
15+
Years of Research
50K+
Assessments Completed
95%
Diagnostic Accuracy
Understanding the ADOS-2
A play-based, research-backed diagnostic tool designed to identify autism spectrum characteristics in children.
Gold Standard
The ADOS-2 is a gold standard tool backed by research, helping clinicians reliably identify autism symptoms across all ages and developmental levels.
Play-Based Fun
Children enjoy the ADOS-2! Its a 30-60 minute play session with activities tailored to their age and development—not a typical doctors visit.
Scoring & Summary
Scores indicate how a childs behaviors align with autism characteristics. A summary is sent to the pediatrician or referring provider.
Comprehensive
Assesses communication, social interaction, play, and restricted/repetitive behaviors through structured activities.
Autism Screening Tools
Different tools for different ages and needs all designed to help identify autism characteristics.
Frequently Asked Questions
Fresh insights about the ADOS-2 experience.
Why is it important to get an autism diagnosis for your child?
A formal autism diagnosis is often required before your child can begin to access certain developmental therapies or services through their school like ABA therapy.
Who conducts the ADOS-2?
The ADOS-2 is conducted by trained professionals who meet the publisher's criteria for the administration and scoring of the tool. Our team receives intensive initial training on the ADOS-2 as well as ongoing training to maintain their clinical skills.
What happens during the ADOS-2?
Throughout the assessment, the professional calculates a score based on how the child's behaviors align with key autism signs. When the results are ready, usually within one week, they are sent to the referring pediatric medical provider to inform their evaluation, diagnosis decisions, and recommendations.
Does the ADOS-2 diagnose autism?
The ADOS-2 is a great tool for seeing if someone might have autism, but it does not officially diagnose it. Instead, it can inform a provider's evaluation for autism. The results need to be examined by a doctor who can make the final diagnosis.
What happens after the ADOS-2?
The ADOS-2 results summary is sent to your child's treating doctor for review. They will consider all sources of information to determine if your child meets the diagnostic criteria for autism. Your doctor may recommend further steps, such as more in-depth testing with a specialist.
Does insurance cover the ADOS-2?
We provide the ADOS-2 as a no-cost service to the community.
