Autism Treatment & Autism Testing Services
When our kids act differently from other kids, we worry. Do they have a disability? Can we help them? Will they grow out of this? Who can I talk to about this?
And when it’s a neurological difference, it can be even more confusing. It can look so different from kid to kid and therapy can range, too.
Where do you start?
You start here. We are going to break down what autism looks like, how autism testing works, the costs, and where to find autism therapists in Grand Rapids.
We also have a list of autism screening places in West Michigan.
Kids with neurological disorders navigate the world differently. Find the resources you need to help them, and you’ll be setting your child up for a better understanding of themselves and how they interact with others.
Table of Contents
What is Autism Spectrum Disorder?
Autism, or Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD for short), is a disorder that impairs communication and interaction with others.
There are subcategories within ASD, such as Aspberger’s syndrome, but they all have the same umbrella symptoms.
Signs of autism start in early childhood, although it is not always diagnosed at a young age.
What are Autism Symptoms?
Autism symptoms manifest very differently from person to person.
Some autistic persons are non-verbal, while others could be a coworker or classmate who seems to have little difficulties communicating. (But they will tell you that they still do!)
Common symptoms include:
- Repetitive behaviors such as rocking back and forth or twirling hair between fingers
- Obsessive interests.
- Difficulty with communication
- Difficulty understanding social cues
- Avoiding eye contact
- Difficulty understanding or talking about other’s feelings
This chart is an example of the different areas ASD affects.
The reason for the circular grid is because autism looks different for each impacted individual. Two different autistic people will experience ASD in very different ways, yet they both have autism.
What Autism Testing is Like
Like with ADHD, there is no standard test for Autism or any of the other spectrum disorders.
Specialists often use a combination of indicators when making a diagnosis. They will observe the child’s behaviors, talk to family members about their observations, and even interview the child (if they’re old enough/verbal).
When you’re looking for autism testing in Grand Rapids, start with your pediatrician. If your child has indications of autism or any other spectrum disorder, your pediatrician will refer you to other specialists including:
Specialists will use the DSM-5 for an official diagnosis.
What Does Autism Testing Cost?
If you pay out of pocket, autism assessments run anywhere from $500-2,000 on average. A highly skilled professional is usually $1,200+.
Insurance companies all have different rules for covering autism screening, so always talk to your insurance company first.
Some will cover part of the bill, and others not at all. You may need a referral for them to consider covering autism testing fees.
Autism Testing in West Michigan & Grand Rapids
Wondering if your child may be on the autism spectrum?
There are many options for testing, some with long wait lists. These testers are worth the wait.
Autism Spectrum Disorder Testing in West Michigan & Grand Rapids
BRAINS
Developmental Enhancement Behavioral Health – Grand Rapids Clinic
Hope Network Center for Autism – Kentwood
Helen DeVos Children’s Hospital
Hope Network Center for Autism – Holland
Wedgwood’s Autism Center for Child Development
Counseling Center of West Michigan – Muskegon Campus
Autism Services in West Michigan & Grand Rapids
These specialists can offer a variety of assistance for those on the spectrum, from speech and occupational therapy to autism testing.
Another great resource is The Autism Society of Michigan.
Grandville
Acorn Health ABA Therapy
42 44th Street SW, Grandville, MI 49418
1000 E. Paris SE, Suite 160, Grand Rapids, MI 49546
Acorn Health is an accredited provider of ABA therapy for children as young as 18 months with an autism spectrum disorder diagnosis.
Services are available in-center, at home, or in-school.
Services are available in-center, at home, or in-school.
Grand Rapids
Family Tree Therapies
2251 East Paris Ave, Grand Rapids, MI 49546
570 East Division NE, Rockford, MI 49341
Family Tree Therapies is a private speech and occupational therapy clinic that has been providing child and family centered therapies in West Michigan for over fifteen years.
We partner with BCBS, Priority Health, Aetna, Cigna and Cofinity.
Our unique approach combines evidenced-based practices within the context of relationships, regulation and fun.
We identify underlying challenges, help families and clients understand their impact and empower them with strategies to reach their greatest potential.
We work together as a team to understand your child’s sensory system and communication skills.
We partner with BCBS, Priority Health, Aetna, Cigna and Cofinity.
Our unique approach combines evidenced-based practices within the context of relationships, regulation and fun.
We identify underlying challenges, help families and clients understand their impact and empower them with strategies to reach their greatest potential.
We work together as a team to understand your child’s sensory system and communication skills.
Blue Skies Therapies
Blue Skies Therapies offers neurodiversity affirming speech and occupational therapy, providing in-home or daycare services for families in the Greater Grand Rapids and Lakeshore areas to ensure convenience and accessibility.
Grand Rapids
Leadlight Counseling
5360 Cascade Rd SE, Grand Rapids, Michigan 49546
217 East 24th Street, Holland, MI 49423
Our team has built careers on our hope to bring healing and joy back into the lives of children and families.
Our clinicians are experts in providing support for Autism.
Our clinicians are experts in providing support for Autism.
Ada
Paper Plane Therapies
4670 Fulton St E Suite 201, Ada, MI 49301
Expert speech and occupational therapy for individuals with ASD, focusing on play-based and individualized care to improve communication, sensory processing, and social skills.
Your child can soar with Paper Plane!
Your child can soar with Paper Plane!
Grand Rapids
Wow Vision Therapy
3152 Peregrine Dr NE Suite c205, Grand Rapids, MI 49525
At Wow Vision Therapy we treat children with delays in their eye coordination and visual processing that cause problems in reading, handwriting, attention/concentration, and lazy eye conditions.
Grand Rapids
BRAINS
3292 North Evergreen Drive NE, Grand Rapids, MI 49525
2900 East Beltline Avenue NE, Suite F, Grand Rapids, MI 49525
At BRAINS, we strive to change lives by identifying each individual's unique strengths and potential for growth and incorporating these traits into attainable goals.
BRAINS is an assessment and treatment center offering a variety of services to help children and families navigate the journey to better mental and physical health.
Our team of professionals offer expertise in psychological and neuropsychological assessments, counseling, speech therapy, occupational therapy, and applied behavior analysis.
Our multidisciplinary approach ensures a comprehensive and customized treatment plan.
BRAINS is an assessment and treatment center offering a variety of services to help children and families navigate the journey to better mental and physical health.
Our team of professionals offer expertise in psychological and neuropsychological assessments, counseling, speech therapy, occupational therapy, and applied behavior analysis.
Our multidisciplinary approach ensures a comprehensive and customized treatment plan.
Grand Rapids
Building Blocks Therapy Services
2922 Fuller Ave NE, Suite 107, Grand Rapids, MI 49505
Building Blocks Therapy Services is dedicated to offering the highest quality, research based treatment plans for speech, language and feeding that are individualized to each client.
Family Nest ABA Therapy
Family Nest ABA Therapy is a local practice providing in-home ABA therapy, speech, and OT services.
Serving Kent, Ottawa, Montcalm, and Ionia counties.
We’re here to support your family!
Serving Kent, Ottawa, Montcalm, and Ionia counties.
We’re here to support your family!
Grand Rapids
616 Counseling
550 Cascade West Parkway SE, 616 Counseling, Grand Rapids, Michigan 49546
We want to see your child thrive!
Our autism-friendly therapy space utilizes art, play, and therapy dogs to support and engage your child.
Contact us to book a session today!
Our autism-friendly therapy space utilizes art, play, and therapy dogs to support and engage your child.
Contact us to book a session today!
5 Pointers for Parenting a Child on the Autism Spectrum
Children with Autistic Spectrum Disorder Experience a Wide Variety of Symptoms
Sensitivity to sounds, difficulty relating to others, excessive interest in specific topics or subjects, unexpected emotional responses, and picky eating are just a few. Not every person experiences all of the symptoms, and the degree to which they are experienced will vary.
Children on the Spectrum can Make Great Improvements with Early Intervention
Children on the autism spectrum can make significant improvement in their ability to function at home and school and in the community. Research shows that early intervention for children on the autism spectrum is crucial to their success.
Different Methods Work for Different Kids With Autism Spectrum Disorder
I have learned that certain methods (such as the use of visual supports) work for nearly all children with autism. I have also learned that you have to be creative with each kid. You have to incorporate their intense interests into therapy and start where they are.
You are Not Alone In Your Journey to Care for Your Special Needs Child
Accepting that your child is different but still recognizing all of his or her talents is key. Advocating for your child in all settings (school, child care, the community, with your relatives and elsewhere) is also important. You are not alone and there are local autism services that can help you.
Talk to Your Doctor About Your Child’s Development
If you have concerns about your child’s development, your pediatrician is a good place to start. Your child’s preschool, school, or local ISD are all good resources, too.
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Thanks For sharing such a great information on Speech and language therapy grand rapids. Keep posting such a great information.
Calvin College Rehabilitation Services (CCRS) is an outpatient clinic offering a variety of pediatric services including Speech and Language Pathology, Occupational Therapy, Physical Therapy, Social Work, and Audiology. CCRS is a collaborative effort of Calvin College, Western Michigan University and Grand Valley State University using licensed therapists as well as graduate students to meet the therapy needs of our clients. CCRS strives to serve all clients regardless of their ability to pay for their rehabilitative services. To that end, Calvin Rehab will assist those clients who are experiencing significant financial hardship or lack of insurance converge through reduced fee charges.
Where can I get a larger stroller for a larger child?
Hello,
We have a new aquatic program at Holland Community Aquatic Center for kids with special needs. I’m attaching all of the information. It would be great if you can post so families can check it out.
Thank you!!
I own Sensational Steps Therapy, Inc., which provides pediatric occupational therapy services along the Lakeshore (based out of Grand Haven). At Sensational Steps, our mission is to provide pediatric therapy services in a play environment, allowing each child to grow and develop to their full potential through the participation in meaningful activities. We specialize in the use of Stanley Greenspan’s DIR Floortime, Sensory Integration, Handwriting Without Tears, Integrated Listening Systems (ILS), and the Alert Program. We are currently providing home-based services, and also run OT-related groups and a summer camp. The website is https://sites.google.com/site/sensationalstepstherapy/ and our number is 616-402-6997. Thank you!
This website can help you with finding special needs resources in Michigan http://herosource.com/ It was put together by parents in MI for parents in MI as a way to help easily find the providers you need
Thank you!
Website posted for Arts in Motion above in comments is not correct. It is http://www.artsinmotionstudio.org/home.aspx
I am the owner of The Center for Childhood Development which specializes in providing occupational, physical and speech therapy services for children and young adults. We are panelled with BCBS, Priority Health and several private insurances. Our website is w.thecenterforcd.com and our number is #616-667-9551
The Center for Childhood Development is a multi-disciplinary assessment and treatment center located in West Michigan (Jenison and Holland). Their team of occupational, speech, and physical therapists have extensive experience in working with children, birth through adolescence, and their families. As Molly mentioned above, they are also paneled with BCBS, Priority Health, and several private insurances.
Lake Michigan Academy is a wonderful school for non-traditional learners.
Karin’s Horse Connection does therapeutic riding for those with special needs, both physical and mental. My son goes to Karin’s and LOVES it! It has really helped with his core strength. There is also the Equest Center for Therapeutic Riding.
Paws With A Cause trains dogs for children with Autism. Ages 3 – 12. pawswithacause.org
Arts in Motion Studio (www.artsinmotionstudio.com) provides opportunities for individuals with disabilities to express themselves, develop peer relationships, and improve motor skills through the creative arts. We’ve been a part of this organization for many years and enjoy watching these kids and adults gain such self-confidence and pride in what they achieve.
Easter Seals has so many services I did not realize how much help they can be. Feeding Therapy, Sensory program, OT, PT and speech and more also offer a Sat respite program. Great resource! I really enjoyed and utilized them. Prices were right as well. BRAINS was another resource and had even more to offer. I used them for FeldenKrais therapy which is AWESOME for many, many issues. We had a child with sensory issues and some motor skill delays. Early On was great for giving me ideas and pointing out services like Easter Seals and BRAINS. I have heard great things about Family Tree as well but have never used them.
Family Hope Foundation