- Introduction to the In-Person Consultation
The in-person consultation is the initial face-to-face meeting between the specialist (such as a behavior analyst or psychologist) and the child suspected of having Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), in the presence of the caregivers. It is considered the cornerstone of developing a comprehensive understanding of the child’s condition and a prerequisite for further assessment or intervention.
- Goals of the Consultation
To gather initial information from caregivers.
To observe the child’s behavior in an interactive setting.
To form a preliminary understanding of autism severity.
To determine the need for comprehensive assessment.
To provide support and address caregiver concerns.
- Steps of the In-Person Consultation at DANI Center
A) Parent Interview
Structured or semi-structured tools may be used, such as:
Developmental History Questionnaire
Autism Diagnostic Interview-Revised (ADI-R)
Topics include:
Medical and family history.
Developmental milestones (motor, speech, social).
Current behavioral patterns.
Communication and play behaviors.
Importance: Provides accurate background data and context for observed behaviors.
B) Direct Behavioral Observation
The therapist observes the child while interacting with caregivers or educational tools.
Key aspects include:
Verbal and non-verbal communication.
Response to instructions.
Play behavior.
Repetitive or stereotypical behaviors.
Tools like the ADOS-2 may be used.
Goal: To document ASD-related symptoms according to DSM-5 criteria.
C) Symptom Identification and Severity Assessment
Data from the interview and observation are analyzed using:
DSM-5 criteria which focus on:
Social communication difficulties.
Restricted and repetitive behaviors.
Symptoms are categorized by severity (Level 1 to Level 3).
Comorbidities like ADHD or sensory processing issues are also considered.
D) Documentation and Recommendations
A preliminary report is compiled, including:
General case description.
Behavioral observations.
Recommendations for full assessment or intervention planning.
- Importance of In-Person Consultation
- Scientific References
American Psychiatric Association. (2013). Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (5th ed.) (DSM-5).
Lord, C., Rutter, M., DiLavore, P. C., Risi, S., Gotham, K., & Bishop, S. (2012). Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule, Second Edition (ADOS-2).
Rutter, M., Le Couteur, A., & Lord, C. (2003). Autism Diagnostic Interview-Revised (ADI-R).
Schreibman, L. (2005). The Science and Fiction of Autism.
