Autism Assessment

Dr. Limbos can conduct a detailed assessment of children who have suspected autism or autism spectrum disorders.  Her extensive experience in the assessment and treatment of autism includes training and work at Adventure Place and Thistletown Regional Centre TRE-ADD (Treatment Resarch and Education for Autism and Developmental Disorders) in Toronto where she conducted applied behavioral analysis (ABA) as well as behavior therapy.  Specific training includes workshops on the assessment of autism including administration of the Autism Diagnostic Observation Scale (ADOS) and the Autism Diagnostic Interview - Revised (ADI-R).  Furthermore, Dr. Limbos' active research progarm in the area of screening for autism and developmental delays in children keeps her on the forefront of knew knowledge and research in the field of autism spectrum disorders.

Making a diagnosis of autism involves a detailed psychological assessment, administration of autism specific tests (ADOS & ADI-R) and completing a multidisciplinary assessment, that includes assessment by a pediatrician, speech language pathologist as well as other professionals (psychiatrist, occupational therapist) as indicated.  Dr. Limbos can conduct the psychological and autism portions of the assessment and make  referrals to other professionals to help ensure timely assessment.

Dr. Limbos follows the Standards and Guidelines for the Assessment and Diagnosis of Young Children with Autism Spectrum Disorders in British Columbia, as set out by the British Columbia Autism Assessment Network (BCAAN).  Dr. Limbos' assessment report will include: (1) A complete Psychological Report (including detailed assessment of cognitive and adaptive functioning; (2) Result of the ADOS and ADI-R; (3) Copies of interdisciplinary assessments by a speech and language pathologist and a pediatrician.  If a child is found to meet criteria for an autism spectrum disorder the contents of the assessment should meet the requirements for application to the Autism Program of the Ministry of Children and Family Development.

Other Services for Children with Autism Spectrum Disorders

For children who have already been diagnosed autism spectrum disorders, Dr. Limbos can assist with development of behavioral intervention plans, behavior therapy.  Furthermore, Dr. Limbos provides counseling and psychotherapy to children with autism and their families.  For children over 6 years of age, expenses for such services may be covered by the Ministry of Children and Family Development.