Frequently Asked Questions

Contact the CARES personnel at 512.245.7892 or by e-mailing cares@txstate.edu.

Children, adolescents, and adults who are suspected of having an Autism.  Presenting characteristics may include, having trouble relating to others or showing no interest in other people at all, avoiding eye contact and wanting to be left alone most of the time, having trouble understanding other people's feelings, or resisting being held or cuddled. They may appear to not hear others talking, repeat or echo words or phrases said to them or have trouble adapting to changes in their routine. Children with an Autism may not engage in pretend play or may not point at objects to show interest. They may also seem unanaware of objects that are indicated by another person.

Faculty and student teams from the university's degree programs in school psychology, communication disorders and special education use the most current and comprehensive tests to determine an appropriate diagnosis and provide referrals for further services. Traditional and research-supported diagnostic instruments specific to Autism are administered. Individuals may also receive hearing and vision tests, speech-language assessments, and cognitive assessments as part of this highly individualized evaluation.

Graduate students and Texas State faculty members from university degree programs in school psychology, communication disorders, and special education conduct the assessments. Students are closely supervised by faculty from these programs during the assessment process.

The entire process takes two to three weeks. Assessments are usually completed in one day, but could take two days depending on schedules and the specific assessments deemed necessary to provide the most accurate picture of the child's current functioning. A comprehensive written report will be available three weeks after the intial face-to-face assessment session.

The fee for services at the clinic is $500. A deposit is required at the consultation meeting.