Who Can Diagnose Autism? Understanding the Signs, the Process, and What to Do Next

Published On
June 11, 2025
CategoryAutism

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Young child sitting on a sofa with their back turned, representing the early signs of autism and raising the question of who can diagnose autism.

If you’re noticing traits in your child that might point to autism, or if they’ve received another diagnosis that doesn’t feel quite right, you’re right to be looking into how you can get them tested. 

Understanding who can diagnose autism and how to get the process started is key, so we’ll walk you through all those details below.

However, it’s also important to understand the challenges around getting an autism diagnosis. 

Autism can be complex to identify, as its traits often overlap with other conditions, and the signs of autism can look different from one child to the next. There’s also no “one test” that can definitively diagnose autism. 

But an early diagnosis of autism can make a huge difference in a child’s overall development, and their future.

So, whether it’s autism or another developmental need, it’s vital to trust your instincts. As a parent, you know your child best, and you have the right to keep pushing until you get the diagnosis that you know is right. 

In this article, we’ll walk you through the autism signs to watch for, who can diagnose autism, how the testing process works, and what to do next. 

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What are the signs of autism, and are they easy to miss? 

Autism isn’t a one-size-fits-all diagnosis. Every autistic person is different, and symptoms can vary widely in type and intensity. It’s also possible for two autistic people to have completely different symptoms. 

That said, there are common traits of autism. These include: 

  • Difficulty with social interactions (making friends or understanding others’ emotions)
  • Trouble understanding or using body language or facial expressions
  • Avoiding or struggling with eye contact
  • Repetitive behaviors or movements
  • Fixated interests in specific topics or objects
  • Being very sensitive to sounds, lights, or textures
  • Preferring routines and getting upset with changes
  • Delayed or unusual language or communication skills
  • Playing differently from other children (e.g., lining up toys instead of playing pretend)

If someone only displays very mild autism symptoms, they can be easy to miss. Especially as a number of autism traits are also common in other conditions, such as ADHD, anxiety, sensory processing disorder, and more—which can lead to autism being misdiagnosed. 

We’ll go into more detail on that below, but this is why it’s essential to get an accurate diagnosis. 

Not everyone with autism needs significant support. Sometimes it’s just a case of acknowledging that they may learn and communicate in ways that aren’t considered typical, and a 504 Plan or other basic adjustments might be enough. 

But for others, tailored support—such as attending specific autism-focused schools or programs, and having ABA therapy, speech therapy, and more—is vital for them to cope and truly succeed in life. For example, at EA Schools, we specialize in helping autistic students thrive by teaching them in an environment tailored to their unique strengths and needs.

Who tests for autism, and how does the process work? 

Getting your child tested for autism usually starts when someone—a parent, teacher, or healthcare professional—notices something in your child’s development. 

Here’s how the process usually unfolds:

1. Initial screening: A general practitioner or other healthcare professional may conduct a screening during a routine visit or in response to your concerns. This typically includes questionnaires, checklists, and basic observations.

2. Referral to a specialist: If screening results suggest possible autism traits, your child will usually be referred to a specialist who can officially diagnose autism (see below), for a full evaluation.

3. Comprehensive assessment: The specialist will conduct an in-depth evaluation. Various tools may be used, depending on your child’s age and development stage. 

These include: 

  • Interviews with you, the parent or caregiver
  • Observation of your child in different settings
  • The use of specific developmental or behavioral assessment tools

4. Diagnosis: Based on all the information gathered, the specialist will determine if your child meets the criteria for an autism diagnosis. If they do, they will highlight the specific traits your child exhibits, the type of support(s) that will help them (and what they’re entitled to by law), and information about what to do next.

Professionals who can diagnose autism

In the U.S. (including Ohio), a formal autism diagnosis can be made by various licensed professionals. These include:

  • Psychologists: Especially clinical or developmental psychologists who specialize in behavioral and mental health; these are the most common professionals to diagnose ASD (autism spectrum disorder).
  • Psychiatrists: These are medical doctors who specialize in mental health; they can diagnose autism as well as provide medical treatment plans.
  • Pediatricians: In particular, developmental pediatricians, who are experts in early childhood development.
  • Neurologists: Especially when neurological or developmental concerns are also present.
  • Speech & Language Pathologists: May not diagnose ASD alone, but they often play a key role in the diagnostic process by assessing communication skills.
  • BCBAs (Board Certified Behavior Analysts): Do not diagnose, but are crucial in treatment and behavioral planning.

In Ohio, certified nurse practitioners or clinical nurse specialists with advanced psychiatric or pediatric training can also provide diagnoses for ASD.

Can autism be misdiagnosed? 

Yes, autism can be misdiagnosed—or even missed altogether, and this is one of the key reasons it’s so important for you as a parent to trust your instincts and push for screenings if you feel something is wrong. 

It’s less common for a child to be incorrectly diagnosed with autism, because the autism screening process is so thorough. But it can happen. However, it’s unfortunately thought to be quite common that autism is misdiagnosed as another condition, or that it simply goes undiagnosed.

Reasons why autism can be misdiagnosed or missed

  • Overlapping symptoms with other conditions: Traits like anxiety, ADHD, or OCD can look very similar to autism, making it hard to tell them apart.
  • Autism looks different in every person: There’s no single set of symptoms, so one child’s autism may look very different from another’s.
  • Masking or camouflaging: Some children, especially girls, learn to hide their challenges in social situations, which can delay diagnosis.
  • No medical test for autism: Diagnosis is based on behavior and observation—not a blood test or brain scan—so it depends on the skill and experience of the professional.
  • Limited time or tools during evaluation: Busy healthcare providers may not have the time, resources, or training to spot the full picture, especially in brief appointments.
  • Focus on other diagnoses: Sometimes a child’s other challenges (like speech delays or emotional outbursts) are seen as the main issue, and autism is overlooked.
  • Late-onset or subtle signs: Some children don’t show noticeable differences until social demands increase, often during school years.
  • Lack of awareness among caregivers or professionals: Some adults may not recognize early signs of autism or may believe a child will “grow out of it.”

Other conditions that autism is often misdiagnosed as

  • ADHD: Both can involve trouble with focus, impulsivity, hyperactivity, and social challenges.
  • Anxiety: Avoiding social situations, struggling with eye contact, or becoming overwhelmed easily can resemble anxiety. 
  • OCD (Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder): Repetitive behaviors or routines can be mistaken for compulsions.
  • Sensory processing disorder: Sensory sensitivities may be diagnosed alone, without recognizing the full autism profile.
  • Language or speech delay: Delayed communication can mask the broader social or sensory aspects of autism.
  • Intellectual disability: Communication struggles can be misunderstood as a general cognitive delay.
  • Depression: Low energy, social withdrawal, or flat affect can overlap with autistic traits, especially in teens and adults. 
  • Bipolar disorder: Mood swings, emotional intensity, or difficulties regulating emotions can be mistaken for bipolar episodes. 
  • BPD (Borderline Personality Disorder): Identity challenges, extreme mood swings, and social-emotional dysregulation can be present in both autism and BPD. 
  • Eating disorders: Restricted eating tied to sensory issues or routines may resemble disordered eating.
  • Trauma or attachment disorders: Emotional withdrawal, difficulty with connection, or limited eye contact can mirror trauma responses.

The importance of accurately diagnosing autism

It goes without saying that getting the right diagnosis matters. 

When a child’s autism goes undiagnosed, they may receive the wrong kind of support—or none at all. This can lead to frustration, confusion, and missed opportunities for growth and connection. 

Over time, the effects of a late or missed diagnosis can impact every area of a young person’s life.

Some of the most common consequences include:

  • Low self-esteem or confusion about identity
  • Poor emotional well-being
  • Difficulty managing everyday tasks
  • Strained relationships
  • Challenges in school
  • Career and life planning obstacles
  • Reduced overall well-being

On the other hand, a timely and accurate autism diagnosis can change everything. 

It doesn’t change who a child is, but it can change the kind of support they receive—which makes all the difference. 

Support available for autistic children includes:

At EA Schools, we know just how powerful the right support can be. We work closely with families and professionals to ensure students with autism receive the structure, compassion, and support they need to thrive and reach their full potential.

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What to do if you think your child has autism

If you believe your child may be autistic or may have been misdiagnosed, you can take the following steps:

1. Talk to your child’s doctor or teacher: Share your concerns and ask for an autism screening. If the doctor or teacher is dismissive or you disagree with their assessment, remember—you can request a second opinion!

2. Keep records: Document your child’s behaviors, challenges, and any feedback from teachers or caregivers. This information can help during evaluations.

3. Request a referral: Ask to be referred to a developmental pediatrician, psychologist, or another specialist who can officially diagnose autism or provide a formal assessment.

4. Remember, you’re not alone: Finding the right path can take time, but there is support. Schools like EA exist to ensure that children with different learning needs receive the education and care they deserve.

Get tailored support for autism in Ohio, at EA Schools

It’s vital to remember that autism presents differently in every child, and no journey looks exactly the same. 

Whether you’re just starting to explore the possibility that your child has autism or you’re looking for answers after a possible misdiagnosis, know that support is available.

At EA Schools, we specialize in creating an environment where autistic students can thrive—through structured routines, individualized support, and a team that truly understands. If you have questions or are seeking the right next step for your child, we’re here to help. Learn more about EA Schools’ autism program or contact us to speak with our team directly.

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