Autism Assessments in Coquitlam, BC
Comprehensive ASD Assessments by a Registered Psychologist
🧩 Assessments For Adults and Children
Carolina Hall conducts gold-standard autism assessments for children and adults in Coquitlam, BC and Medicine Hat Alberta. She has worked with individuals on the autism spectrum since 2004, first as a Behavioural Therapist, then as a Consultant, and now as a Registered Psychologist (AB #5032, BC #2829). Her deep understanding of autism allows her to approach each assessment with insight, care, and clinical precision.
As one of the few Registered Psychologists in the Tri-Cities area who is also a Certified Play Therapy Supervisor, Carolina brings over 20 years of autism and neurodiversity experience to every assessment. Whether you are a parent seeking answers for your child or an adult exploring the possibility of a late diagnosis, you will receive a thorough, affirming, and clinically rigorous assessment.
Carolina is trained in the gold standard diagnostic tools:
Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule (ADOS-2)
Autism Diagnostic Interview–Revised (ADI-R)
To ensure a well-rounded, accurate diagnosis, she collaborates closely with physicians, speech-language pathologists (SLPs), educators, and other professionals.
Signs You or Your Child May Benefit from an Autism Assessment
Parents often first notice differences between the ages of 3 and 4. Common signs that an autism assessment may be appropriate include:
Difficulty with social communication, such as connecting with peers, making eye contact, or using gestures
Challenges adapting to change, including big emotional reactions to unexpected transitions
Rigid or repetitive behaviours and routines
Differences in how your child communicates or engages with others
Teachers often notice these patterns too. If you are hearing similar observations from your child's school, an assessment is a valuable next step.
For adults, signs can look different. Difficulty with social situations that others seem to navigate easily, sensory sensitivities, or a lifelong sense of not quite fitting in are all worth exploring. A formal assessment can provide clarity and open doors to support you may not have known were available.
Autism Assessment Details
Children under 6: 17 hours — includes cognitive component, ADOS, ADIR and coordination with SLP/physician ($3,995)
Children over 6: 14 hours— includes administration of ADOS, ADIR etc.— $3,290
Adults: 17 hours — with report ($3,995) or $2,820 without full report (letter provided)
Combined Autism + Psychoeducational Assessment (children over 6/adults): 20 hours — $4,700
All autism assessments include screening for ADHD, anxiety, depression, and related concerns (as appropriate).
In-person assessments are available at our Coquitlam clinic, serving families across the Tri-Cities including Port Coquitlam, Port Moody, Burnaby, New Westminster, and Vancouver. In-person assessments are also available at our Medicine Hat, Alberta clinic. Virtual assessments are available for eligible components to clients across BC and Alberta province-wide.
What to Expect At Your Autism Assessment
Virtual or In-Person Intake Appointment – to understand background, concerns, and goals (approx. 1 hour).
One-on-One Sessions – ADOS-2 and, if applicable, cognitive/achievement testing (Up to 4 hours).
Structured Parent/Informant Interview – using the ADI-R (up to 2 hours).
Behind the Scenes – report writing, teacher and professional interviews, information analysis, recommendations, and report preparation.
Final Debrief – parents/adults receive a Diagnostic Assessment Report, including autism, cognitive, and adaptive functioning results.
In BC, completion of the BCAAN Clinical Outcome Form is included.
Additional meetings, school consultations, T2201 or letters beyond the assessment scope are billed at the regular hourly rate.
Benefits of an Autism Assessment
A confirmed assessment opens meaningful doors for children and adults:
Access to BC Autism Funding for children with a confirmed diagnosis
Access to Alberta disability supports including FSCD for families in Medicine Hat and across Alberta
Early intervention, which makes a significant difference in long-term outcomes for children
School-based support plans, with educators receiving the report and providing in-class accommodations
A clearer understanding of your child's unique needs and strengths, and practical strategies for supporting them at home
For adults, a diagnosis can provide relief, clarity, and access to supports that were previously out of reach
Frequently Asked Questions
-
If you or your child's teachers have noticed consistent differences in social communication, emotional regulation, or adaptability to change, an assessment can provide clarity. Early identification allows for earlier access to support and funding. Carolina is happy to discuss your observations during an initial intake appointment.
-
Yes. In-person assessments are available at our Medicine Hat clinic. Virtual assessments are also available for eligible components to clients across Alberta, including Edmonton, Calgary, Lethbridge, and Sherwood Park.
-
Before the assessment begins, Carolina will walk you through exactly what to expect during the intake appointment. For children, parents will complete questionnaires and teachers may be asked to contribute observations. For adults, you will complete intake forms covering your developmental history and current experiences. No special preparation is required.
-
For younger children, parents are typically present in the room. For older children and teenagers, the assessment is usually conducted one-on-one, though parents are always welcome to be part of the process and are included in the intake and debrief stages.
-
IPsychological assessments conducted by a Registered Psychologist are covered by many extended health plans. We recommend contacting your insurer to confirm your specific coverage. In BC, a confirmed autism diagnosis opens access to BC Autism Funding. In Alberta, families may access disability supports through FSCD and related programs.