Diagnosis and Evaluation Assistance
Understanding Different Assessments for Your Child
There are three main types of assessments: medical diagnosis, educational assessment (for special education services), and Regional Center assessment. It’s important to know that having a medical diagnosis doesn’t always mean your child will qualify for other services.
Why a Medical Diagnosis is Important
We recommend getting a formal medical diagnosis from your healthcare provider as soon as possible. This diagnosis can help you access services covered by your health insurance and provide valuable information if you decide to seek services through your child’s school or a Regional Center.
Diagnosing Autism
There are no specific medical tests for diagnosing autism. Instead, an accurate diagnosis is based on observing your child’s communication, behavior, and development. Since many behaviors associated with autism are also seen in other conditions, doctors may order various tests to rule out other possible causes. Specialists like developmental pediatricians, psychiatrists, psychologists, or neurologists can help make this diagnosis.
Amen Clinic Newport Beach
3150 Bristol St., Suite 400 Costa Mesa, CA 92626
(949) 266 3750 or 1(888) 564-2700
http://www.amenclinics.com
Specializes in innovative diagnosis and treatment for a wide variety of neuropsychiatric, behavioral and learning problems among children, teenagers and adults. The center utilizes brain SPECT imaging for a wide variety of neuropsychiatric problems.
Anthony Benigno, PsyD, Clinical Psychologist PSY26432
AB Psych Consulting
3200 Guasti Road, Suite 100
Ontario, CA 91761
(909) 906-0076
www.abpsychconsulting.com
Assessments in the areas of Autism, Learning Disability, ADHD, Cognitive Capacity and Immigration. Accept IEHP and other insurances.
As You Are
http://AsYouAre.com
866-219-8595
Virtual evaluations only, available in 40 states including California for children 16 months to 10 years old. As You Are physicians utilize the CARS-2(obs) and TELE-ASD-PEDS (depending on the child’s age) assessment tools created and validated for telehealth appointments by experts in the autism field. We work with commercial insurance plans, TRICARE, traditional state Medicaid plans and managed care partners. Our support team will review a child’s insurance benefits with their parent or guardian before the first appointment. To get started families can submit this form: https://asyouare.com/benefits/. Participation may vary by state and is based on each patient’s health insurance benefits.
Autism Assessment Center of Excellence (AACE)
www.autismassessment4ie.org
1499 S. Tippecanoe Ave., #A, San Bernardino, CA 92408
19314 Jesse Lane, Suite 200, Riverside, CA 92508
(909) 799-3777
The Inland Empire Autism Assessment Centers (AAC) are world-class centers of excellence that focus on providing the Gold-Standard* of evaluation for neurodevelopmental disorders, such as Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). Children can be seen at the centers from birth until their 21st birthday. Our transdisciplinary team of professionals include pediatric neurologists, general pediatricians, clinical psychologists, neurodevelopmental psychologists, educational psychologists, speech and language pathologists, occupational therapists, geneticists, behavioral health professionals, licensed social workers and MFTs, evaluation coordinators, and paraprofessional staff.
Autism Discovery Institute – Rady’s Children’s Hospital
3685 Kearny Villa Road, San Diego, CA 92123
Scheduling evaluation or service, call Bonnie Corbin: 858-966-7453 or 877-64AUTISM
For general information, call Janae Deyoe: 858-966-1700, ext. 6170
http://www.rchsd.org/programs-services/autism-discovery-institute/
Our multidisciplinary staff includes: Occupational therapists, Speech-language pathologists, Audiologists, Neurologists and other medical specialists, Specialists in developmental and behavioral pediatrics, Developmental specialists, and Psychologists. Along with serving children with autism spectrum disorders and their families, we provide services and training for professionals working in this area.
Autism Heroes
420 Brookside Ave, Redlands CA 92373
(909) 312-3070
www.myautismheroes.com
Autism Heroes focuses on providing ABA services to individuals with disabilities in school settings, in-home settings, and in the community. By not only collaborating with the individual but with their professional team and family we seek to reach a cohesive intervention plan to benefit the individual. Offers a number of services including Diagnosis by a medical doctor, behavioral feeding therapy, and sexuality training.
Dr. Antonius Brandon, Ph.D., Clinical Neuropsychologist
5887 Brockton Ave. Ste A, Riverside, CA 92506
(951) 275-8500
Offers Comprehensive Neuropsychological Assessment and Evaluations for children and adults
The CARE Clinic Program
17800 Highway 18, Apple Valley
(760) 552-6700
www.dmselpa.org
Provides screening, assessment, and referral for children ages birth through five who are developmentally delayed, have severe behaviors or fall on the autism spectrum.
Care Connections- Variety of the Desert
42600 Cook Street, Suite 150, Palm Desert, CA 92211
(760) 773-9800
https://varietyofthedesert.org/caring-connections/
Caring Connections is an early childhood development resource center. Our goal is to help parents in the Coachella Valley identify and recognize early childhood development concerns and provides them with the appropriate resources that can help overcome challenges and set their children on a path to success. We offer parents a quick FREE screening from Birth to Age 5 and your answers can help show your child’s strengths and what areas they need support in. We also provide tools, resources, and support. We will help you monitor development and help bridge communication between you and providers so you as a parent are in control and can help your child onward to a successful school career and future.
Center for Autism & Neurodevelopmental Disorders of Southern California
2500 Red Hill Ave, Suite 100, Santa Ana, CA 92705
(949) 267-0400
thecenter4autism.org
Comprehensive evaluation and diagnosis of children birth to 22 years. Center-based services for patients that include: Ongoing care coordination and medical management up to age 5 years; Evidence-based treatment recommendations and advocacy; Social worker assessment and support services, including individual consultations, parent training, and connection to community resources; Behavior Intervention services; Speech and language services and Psychology services.
CHOC Children’s Health Center
854 Magnolia Ave, Suite #101, Corona, CA 92879
http://www.choc.org/locations/health-center-corona/
In this new, state-of-the-art facility, CHOC offers the following pediatric specialty care services in a convenient, family centered-care environment: Cardiology, Pediatric Surgery, Pulmonology, Neurology, Endocrinology, Diabetes, Gastroenterology, Rheumatology, Orthopedics. Currently accepts: Cigna, Aetna Blue Cross, Blue Shield, and Most PPO and HMO Plans accepted.
CHOC Children’s Hospital
1201 W La Veta Ave, Orange, CA 92868-3874
(714) 997-3000
choc.org
Accepts Medi-Cal for diagnosis.
Dr. Christopher Cooper, Ph.D., Clinical Psychologist
6809 Indiana Ave Suite 130-A60, Riverside CA 92506
(800) 790-0890
Coachella Valley Lighthouse
78900 Avenue 47, Suite 105, La Quinta, CA, 92253
(760) 625.0951
https://cvlighthouse.com/
Excellent qualified staff working collaboratively in the field of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), 1-1 Tutoring and assessments.
Diagnostic Center South
4339 State University Drive, Los Angeles CA 90032
(323) 222-8090
www.dcs-cde.ca.gov
Provides comprehensive assessments, research-based interventions, quality professional development, and a continuum of technical assistance for special education students with complex needs. To be eligible students must be between the ages of 3 and 21, be must be receiving public special education services or eligibility for special education as an issue in a Southern California county.
El Paseo Children’s Center
4075 El Paseo Unit A-6 Palm Desert CA 92260
(760) 342-4900
https://elpaseotesting.com/
EPCC is a private practice based in Palm Desert, CA specializing in conducting private, independent, and school-based educational evaluations (IEE’s for IEPS). EPCC is also a Non-Public Agency (NPA) approved by the California Department of Education as a provider of special education related services on a contracted basis.
Empire Psychological Services
11175 Azusa Ct #110 Rancho Cucamonga, CA 91730
(909) 475-3400
www.empirecounseling.net
At Empire Psychological Services, we specialize in providing comprehensive autism, ADHD, and general mental health evaluations for adults and adolescents. Our practice is dedicated to the unique needs of Black and African American communities. We offer culturally sensitive assessments and personalized care, available both in-office and virtually to accommodate your needs. They accept cash pay, and IN network with IEHP and UnitedHealthCare.
Gunn Psychological Services
10470 Foothill Blvd, Suite 116, Rancho Cucamonga
(909) 989-4055
www.gunnpsych.com
Group psychology practice in Rancho Cucamonga which conducts objective testing including the ADOS-2 as part of evaluating children for Autism Spectrum Disorders. Work with all ages from infants/toddlers through adulthood. Accepts most insurance plans. Additionally can test for intellectual giftedness, or for a emotional, behavioral or cognitive disorder (e.g. ADHD, Learning Disorder, Autism, Post concussion syndrome, Depression, Anxiety, etc).
Hope Comprehensive Center for Development- Dr. Sara M Deleon
41760 Ivy St #101, Murrieta, CA 92562
info@hopeccd.com
(951) 595-4673
https://hopeccd.com/diagnostic-psychological-evaluations/
At Hope evaluations are led by Dr. Sara M Deleon , a licensed clinical psychologist, and supported by our team of Speech Language Pathologists, Occupational Therapists, and Board-Certified Behavior Analysts. Children only.
Inland Empire Autism Assessment Center of Excellence
1499 S. Tippecanoe Avenue, Building A, San Bernardino CA 92408
19314 Jesse Lane, Suite 200, Riverside, CA 92508
(909) 799-3777
https://www.autismassessment4ie.org/
Offers the gold standard in pediatric evaluations for autism.
Inland Psychiatric Medical Group Inc
1809 W. Redlands Blvd, Redlands
(951) 737-1917
http://www.inlandpsych.com
Provides Adolescent and young adult psychiatry, Adult psychiatry, Behavioral Health Services, Psychiatric Consultation Services, Evaluation and Treatment, and Child, Adolescent and Adult Therapy. Speak: Farsi, Hindi, Persian, Spanish and Telugu. Takes a number of insurances, check the website for up to date info.
Inland Regional Center (IRC)
P.O. Box 6127, San Bernardino, CA 62412-6127
(909) 890-3000
http://www.inlandrc.org
A non-profit agency that has provided support to people with intellectual disabilities, autism, cerebral palsy, and epilepsy since 1972. They provide case management and service coordination. Can provide evaluations for Early Intervention services and will assess to see if children or adults qualify for services.
Jigsaw Diagnostics
Telemedicine psychology serving ALL of California
info@jigsaw-dx.com
https://www.jigsaw-dx.com/650-260-8701
Get a Comprehensive Diagnosis Evaluation (CDE) for Autism by licensed and experienced clinical psychologists. Jigsaw’s tech-enabled efficient processes means you can get a complete evaluation in a matter of weeks that is accurate and affordable. In-network with many Medi-CAL plans. Superbills provided for PPO plans. We want to help your child get the services they need. Call us or get started with a FREE Autism screening today.
Kyle D. Pontius, Ph.D.
23441 South Pointe Drive, Ste 250, Laguna Hills
(949) 454-9016, x3
Licensed Psychologist, #PSY 14186. Dr. Pontius specializes in diagnostic assessments for use in service applications (regional center, SSI, IEEs, etc.). Lots of experience with Asperger’s. Psychological, neuropsychological, and psycho-educational assessments.
Loma Linda University, Division of Child Neurology, Department of Pediatrics
11234 Anderson Street Loma Linda, California 92354
(877) 558 6248
https://lluch.org/neurology
Pediatric neurologists provides assessment and treatment. They are currently not seeing mild ADHD, mood disorders, LD, autism and mild retardation. If there is regressive aggression, progressive symptomology and/or children with moderate to severe or intellectual disabilities, they need a typed letter from the referring physician.
Dr. Muhammad Salim, Pediatric Neurology
1180 N. Indian Canyon Drive, Ste. W214, Palm Springs, CA 92262 (760) 416-4545
47-647 Caleo Bay Dr, Suite 101, La Quinta, CA 92253 (760) 771-6166
58457 Twentynine Palms Hwy, Suite 200, Yucca Valley, CA 92284 (760) 228-1813
https://www.desertcaredocs.com/find-a-doctor/detail/muhammad-salim-1205042579
Dr. Salim’s clinical interests include medical and surgical management of epilepsy, Video EEG monitoring in the setting of epilepsy monitoring unit, critical care EEG monitoring and neonatal neurology and autism.
Magnolia Psychological Assessment & Therapy Center
12021 Jacaranda Avenue, Suite 201E, Hesperia, CA 92345
760-454-6817
https://www.magnoliapatc.net/
Magnolia Psychological Assessment & Therapy Center strives to achieve the highest standards by implementing thorough, comprehensive assessments and recommendations with the goal of providing clarity and directions for moving forward in life. They provide comprehensive assessments for children ages 24 months to adults: Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), Intellectual Disabilities, Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and Specific Learning Disabilities. The following insurances accepted: IEHP, Aetna, Cigna, Heritage, Magellan, St. Joseph, First Health, Health Net Federal Service / Tricare, Scan Health Plan / Lucet, Inland Faculty Medical Center, Sutter Health Plan, Amanda Health, United Behavioral Health, Anthem BCBS, Medicare, Medical and Blue Shield of CA. Spanish speaking staff available.
Neuron and Rose Psychological Services– Dr. Jessica Hogan, PsyD, LP
(805) 285-2307
www.neuronandrosepsychology.com
Provides Evaluations/Assessment for Autism, ADHD, Learning Disabilities, mood disorders, etc. Their team is passionate about providing neurodiversity-affirming evaluations for teens and adults, which are conducted remotely via telehealth. We specialize in autism evaluations for women and high-masking individuals. We also love serving the LGBTQIA+ community and other marginalized populations. We are private pay and provide flexible payment plan options.
Nixon Psychological Institute
12530 10th Street Suite C, Chino, CA 91710
(909) 248 3434
info@nixonpsych.com
www.nixonpsych.com
At Nixon Psychological Institute, we strive to provide the highest quality of care and service to our patients. Nixon Psychological Institute offers testing for Autism Spectrum Disorder (as well as other cognitive disorders such as ADHD, depression, anxiety, learning disorders, etc.) for clients from 3 years old and onwards. They conduct a comprehensive evaluation and assessment, including ADOS-2. For clients seeking therapy, our team of clinicians can offer 1:1 sessions to address issues and difficulties. Spanish speaking staff available for psychotherapy. Nixon Psychological Institute accepts most major insurance companies including Aetna, Cigna, Healt Net, Anthem, Blue Shield CA and private pay.
Quality Life Group, Dr. Kotomori – Child, Adolescent Psychiatrist
6529 Riverside Ave Ste 133, Riverside
(951) 684 2627
https://qualitylifegroup.com/
Board certified in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and General Psychiatry. An expert in the diagnosis and treatment of Psychiatric Disorders and experienced with cultural issues and how they may affect the presentation, course, and treatment of psychiatric conditions. Accepts insurance including IEHP – call for more information.
San Diego BrainWorks
28936 Old Town Front St., Suite 104, Temecula
www.sdbrainworks.com
Specializing in Comprehensive Psychoeducational/IEE, Learning Disorder, ADHD & Autism Evaluations, Neuropsychological Assessments, EHRMS Assessments, Psychological Testing, & Therapy.
Specialized Psychology Solution
3605 E. Ramon Rd. Palm Springs, CA 92264
(760) 325-5630
https://desertautism.com
Program Director: Dr. L. Khoury and Clinical Director: Dr. Adam Cash
SPS is a psychological services and treatment clinic offering several specialty programs to children, families, and adults.
1307 W 6th St, Corona, CA 92882
(888) 662-9378
Ubuntu Psychological Services is a group psychology practice in Corona that specializes in providing culturally competent therapeutic services aimed at serving marginalized communities and communities of color. We provide comprehensive evaluation and diagnosis in the areas of Autism, intellectual disabilities, ADHD, and learning disabilities. Evaluations are conducted by licensed psychologists. We provide assessments in English and Spanish.
UCLA Child and Adult Neurodevelopmental Clinic
Semel Institute, Rm 68-237 University of California, Los Angeles
300 Medical Plaza, Suite 1200, Los Angeles
(310) 794-4008
https://www.uclahealth.org/medical-services/psychiatry/child-and-adolescent/ucla-child-and-adult-neurodevelopmental-clinic
Provides a specialized, high-level of multi-disciplinary expertise. The assessment protocol routinely includes comprehensive diagnostic and cognitive testing by child psychologists, speech and language assessment and occupational therapy evaluation all with practitioners skilled and experience with autism spectrum disorders. A pediatric neurologist is also available as needed for the exploration of the many co-morbid medical issues that are seen in this complex disorder.
UC Riverside Search Family Autism Resource Center
3363 Watkins Drive, Riverside, CA 92507
(951) 827-3849
email: searchcenter@ucr.edu
https://searchcenter.ucr.edu/
Established by the School of Education at UC Riverside, SEARCH focuses on the screening and educational needs of children in the Inland Empire. Our services, which are provided without cost, are primarily aimed at assessing and finding referrals for children with autism spectrum disorder, and serving low-income and/or Spanish-speaking families. The screening clinic is by appointment only and located at The Eady Center, 3363 Watkins Drive, Riverside California. Please call or contact us vial email to inquire about a screening appointment. If you leave a phone message, we will return your calls Monday through Friday between 9am and 5pm. Cognitive assessments to children ages 30 months to 15 years old. Reports accepted by all insurance carriers.
(951) 278-2600
Dr. Patel practices Geriatric Psychiatry, Pediatric/Adolescent Psychiatry, and Psychiatry.
Autism Society Options Policy
This Resource Guide was developed to provide families and professionals with an opportunity to find resources related to autism in the Inland Empire in one place.
All information provided or published by the Autism Society Inland Empire is for information purposes only. Specific treatment, therapy or services should be provided to an individual only at the direction of the individual’s doctor, caregiver, or other qualified professional. References to any treatment or therapy option, program, service, or treatment provider are not an endorsement by the Autism Society. References of treatments, therapies, programs, services, and/or providers are not intended to be comprehensive statements. You should investigate alternatives that may be more appropriate for a specific individual. The Autism Society assumes no responsibility for the use made of any information published or provided. The Autism Society Inland Empire provides information, but it does not constitute medical or legal information. Referrals provided are suggestions to organizations that might help, but do not constitute a recommendation. The Autism Society Inland Empire cannot be held responsible for consequences that arise from individual dealings with a professional or organization. The inclusion of any organization does not imply endorsement, and omission does not imply disapproval. The Autism Society Inland Empire may add or remove organizations from this list at its discretion.
