Autism Evaluations in Oakland County, Michigan
Comprehensive, Strengths-Based Autism Evaluations
Action Potential Neuropsychological Services provides comprehensive, strengths-based autism evaluations for children, adolescents, and adults across Oakland County and the greater Metro Detroit area. Evaluations are designed to support diagnostic clarity, deepen understanding of individual strengths and needs, and offer practical recommendations that translate into daily life.
What an Autism Evaluation Includes
Autism evaluations are comprehensive and multi-method, integrating clinical history, standardized assessment, and real-world functioning. The specific measures selected are tailored to each individual and referral question, but may include:
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Developmental and psychosocial history
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Cognitive and neuropsychological testing
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Social-communication and behavioral assessment
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Emotional, adaptive, and executive functioning measures
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Direct observation and clinical interview
The goal is not simply to determine whether diagnostic criteria are met, but to understand how autism-related traits interact with learning, relationships, and daily demands.
Assessment Tools Used
A range of well-validated, evidence-based measures may be used as part of an autism evaluation. Test selection is individualized based on age, developmental history, and referral questions, and may include:
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Structured observational assessment, such as the ADOS-2, when clinically appropriate
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Cognitive and developmental measures, including the Wechsler Intelligence Scales (WPPSI-IV, WISC-V, WAIS-IV/WAIS-V)
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Social-communication and autism-related rating scales completed by caregivers, teachers, or the individual
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Adaptive functioning measures, such as the Vineland-3 or ABAS-3
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Executive functioning and attention measures, when relevant
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Emotional and behavioral measures, when indicated (e.g., BASC-3, BRIEF-2)
The specific tests used vary by individual and referral question. Listed measures represent commonly used examples rather than a fixed battery.
A Context-Driven, Strengths-Based Process
Autism evaluations emphasize understanding the individual within their developmental, cultural, and environmental context. The goal is not only diagnostic clarity, but also guidance that supports self-understanding, accommodation, and long-term wellbeing.