Autism Evaluation for Children and Teens in East Setauket, NY
Comprehensive autism assessments with the ADOS-2, led by a board-certified child and adolescent psychiatrist.
If you have questions about whether your child may be on the autism spectrum, you deserve clear answers from a careful, evidence-based assessment.
At Resilience Psychiatry, autism evaluations are led by Dr. Jessica Carbajal Cáceda, a board-certified child and adolescent psychiatrist and certified ADOS-2 administrator. Each evaluation combines the ADOS-2 (Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule, Second Edition) with a full psychiatric evaluation, so your child’s results are understood in the context of their overall mental health, development and family life.
Families come to us from East Setauket, Stony Brook, Port Jefferson, Smithtown and communities across Suffolk County.
Is an autism evaluation right for my child?
Every child develops differently, and many of the signs below can have more than one explanation. Parents often ask about an evaluation when they notice patterns such as:
- Limited eye contact or difficulty with back-and-forth conversation or play
- Delayed speech or language, or unusual speech patterns
- Difficulty reading social cues or making friends
- Strong need for routines, with significant distress when routines change
- Repetitive movements, such as hand-flapping or rocking
- Intense, narrow interests
- Strong reactions to sounds, textures, lights or other sensory input
Noticing some of these patterns does not mean your child has autism. It means a conversation with a specialist may help. Our team can talk with you about whether a full evaluation makes sense for your family.
What is the ADOS-2?
The ADOS-2 is a standardized, play- and conversation-based assessment. A trained examiner guides your child through a series of activities designed to show how they communicate, interact and play. It looks at social communication, play and imagination, and restricted or repetitive behaviors.
Because it is standardized, ADOS-2 results can be interpreted by other clinicians, and families may choose to share the report with their child’s school. The ADOS-2 is one important part of an autism evaluation. It is not used alone to make a diagnosis.
How the evaluation works
Parent and child interviews
We review your child’s developmental history, medical background, school experience and your current concerns. With your permission, we may also ask for input from teachers or other caregivers.
The ADOS-2 session
Dr. Carbajal Cáceda administers the ADOS-2 in person at our East Setauket office.
Psychiatric evaluation
We look at the full picture, including conditions that often occur alongside autism, such as anxiety, ADHD or mood concerns.
Feedback and next steps
We meet with you to explain the findings in plain language, answer your questions and outline a plan.
What you receive
- A clear explanation of the findings and what they mean for your child
- A written summary with diagnosis and recommendations
- Referrals to community services when needed
- The option of ongoing psychiatric care with our team
Cost and payment
Resilience Psychiatry is an out-of-network practice. Families pay at the time of service and receive a superbill to submit to their insurance plan for possible out-of-network reimbursement. HSA and FSA cards are accepted.
Comprehensive autism psychiatric diagnostic evaluation including the ADOS-2: $2,000
How soon can my child be seen?
New child patients, including families booking a comprehensive evaluation with the ADOS-2, are usually seen within one week. Many local programs have long waitlists, so you don’t have to wait months for answers.
Frequently Asked Questions
What ages do you evaluate for autism?
We evaluate children and adolescents, ages 2 to 17. Adults who are seeking an autism assessment can contact us to discuss options.
Do we need a referral?
No referral is needed. Families can book directly. Pediatricians, schools and therapists who want to refer a family can visit our page for referring providers.
Can the evaluation be done by telehealth?
The ADOS-2 requires direct observation and is completed in person at our East Setauket office. Some follow-up visits may be available by telepsychiatry.
What should we bring?
Prior evaluations, school records or IEP/504 documents, medical records, a list of current medications and any notes about developmental milestones.
How is this different from a school evaluation?
A school evaluation focuses on whether a child qualifies for educational services. A clinical evaluation looks at diagnosis and your child’s overall mental health. Read more in our guide: Private Evaluation vs. School Assessment for Autism.
Is the evaluation available in Spanish?
Dr. Carbajal Cáceda speaks English and Spanish.
Related Services
Schedule an autism evaluation
If you have questions about your child’s development, a comprehensive evaluation can bring clarity and a plan.
Visit Resilience Psychiatry in East Setauket
Need urgent help?
This practice is not an emergency service. If you or someone you love is in danger, call or text 988 to reach the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, or call 911.
For local 24/7 support in Suffolk County, call (631) 952-3333.
If you are in crisis, call or text 988.
This content is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Speak with a qualified provider about your situation.