How and Where to Obtain a Diagnosis/Assessment in Indiana: Autism Spectrum Disorders and Mental Health

By: Dr. Cathy Pratt, BCBA-D and
Marci Wheeler, MSW
Indiana Resource Center for Autism

When an individual is suspected of having an autism spectrum disorder and/or a mental health issue, obtaining an accurate diagnosis can be a time consuming, costly, and confusing process. However, the process can be made easier when qualified personnel are located who can thoroughly assess the individual to determine if they meet the diagnostic criteria for either, or for both. In this list, we have documented not only those who diagnose, assess, and/or treat an autism spectrum disorder but also provide options for those who have or are suspected of having a mental illness.

For children attending an ABA (Applied Behavior Analysis) program, some are equipped with licensed personnel to perform some level of diagnostic testing as part of or in addition to the intake process.  ABA centers are focused on obtaining a medical diagnosis and typically not an educational evaluation needed for schools.  Most are also equipped to complete programming assessments, including the ABLLS®-R and/or VB MAPP. Ongoing assessment assists with program development. Contact individual providers/centers to identify their assessment options.  For a list of ABA providers in the state of Indiana, visit our website at https://www.iidc.indiana.edu/irca/articles/where-and-how-to-find-an-aba-provider-or-center.html

For infants or toddlers prior to their third birthday, local First Steps Service personnel may be able to assist in locating trained personnel. The phone number for your local First Steps can be obtained by calling (317) 232-1144 or (800) 545-7763. You will need to provide the name of the county in which you live, and they will provide you with the number to call for your county. You can also visit the First Steps Map webpage:  https://www.in.gov/fssa/ddrs/4819.htm and click on your county to find information on your local First Steps Office.

If you are seeking an assessment/educational evaluation for an individual of school age, including ages three through 5, contact your local school district for information. School districts employ psychologists and other professionals who can assess school-age children to determine if they meet eligibility criteria for receiving educational services. If your child is between the ages of 3 to 21, an educational assessment with a team of qualified professionals is required to determine eligibility for special education and related services. A “medical diagnosis” from a physician does NOT qualify an individual for educational services. Evaluations conducted through the school district are conducted at no cost to parents. If you have received a medical diagnosis, inform your school and provide their school psychologist with a copy of the report. They can use the report as a reference and important additional information when determining eligibility for services.

The Bureau of Developmental Disabilities Services (BDDS) provides Supervised Group Living services for individuals in need of residential services. BDDS is also the entry point for Indiana’s Medicaid (HCBS) Waivers for children and adults with developmental disabilities. An autism spectrum disorder is considered a developmental disability. When applying for residential Supervised Group Living services or a Medicaid waiver through the BDDS office, you will need a “medical” diagnosis form filled out by a physician as part of the initial paperwork.

Call the state BDDS office at (800) 545-7763 to request contact information (e.g., phone numbers, names, addresses) for the Bureau of Developmental Disabilities Field Service Office for the county in which you live or go to the BDDS webpage: https://www.in.gov/fssa/files/BDDS.pdf to find the phone number for your local office. More information can be found online at https://www.in.gov/fssa/ddrs/2639.htm.

Community Mental Health Centers and other professionals can assist when pursuing options for those with mental health issues.  Visit the website for the Division of Mental Health and Addictions at https://www.in.gov/fssa/dmha/2578.htm to locate community options.

If a family or agency wants a private “medical” assessment or educational evaluation, the following agencies and individuals have experience diagnosing and assessing. Some of the professionals on this list may also be able to provide assistance with medications, educational programming, behavioral support, and/or with counseling or psychiatric services. Read Complete Article and View Listing . Pratt, C. & Wheeler, M. (2020, March 19) How and where to obtain a diagnosis/assessment in Indiana: autism spectrum disorders and mental health. https://www.iidc.indiana.edu/irca/learn-about-autism/how-and-where-to-obtain-a-diagnosis-assessment-in-indiana.html