Autism Evaluation & Diagnosis

In Colorado Springs South

Helping you navigate
the autism journey,
every step of the way.

Our ABA Center:
1079 Space Center Dr., Ste 140, Colorado Springs, CO 80915

Many parents begin thinking about an autism evaluation after noticing small differences in their child’s development. At the same time, it’s common to feel uncertain about what pursuing a diagnosis might mean. Questions about labels, long-term outcomes, or how others may respond to a diagnosis can weigh heavily on families.

However, many caregivers later share that having clear answers helped them feel more confident in supporting their child. Understanding a child’s developmental needs can make everyday decisions—at home, in school, and within the community—feel more informed and less uncertain.

An autism evaluation can provide valuable insight into how a child communicates, learns, interacts with others, and responds to their environment. With that understanding, families can explore strategies, resources, and supports that align with their child’s unique strengths and needs.

At Cultivate Behavioral Health & Education, we work with families throughout South Colorado Springs and the surrounding El Paso County area who are exploring the possibility of an autism diagnosis. While our clinics do not conduct diagnostic evaluations directly, we help families navigate the process by connecting them with trusted local providers as well as virtual autism evaluation options that may offer greater flexibility.

An autism diagnosis is not meant to define a child. Instead, it can serve as a helpful guide to open the door to services, support systems, and a clearer path forward for both children and their families.

Autism Screening Tools

We use widely recognized screening tools, including:

M-CHAT-R

(Modified Checklist for
Autism in Toddlers)

A screening tool used to flag possible early autism traits in toddlers ages 16–30 months.

CAST

(Childhood Autism
Spectrum Test)

A parent questionnaire that helps identify autism-related traits in children ages 4-11.

Our Commitment To Care

Families seeking an autism evaluation in South Colorado Springs may find that scheduling an appointment with a diagnostic provider can sometimes take time. In many areas, demand for developmental specialists continues to grow, which can result in longer waitlists or fewer available appointments for autism testing.

Although Cultivate Behavioral Health & Education does not perform autism diagnostic evaluations within our clinics, we help families throughout South Colorado Springs and nearby El Paso County communities identify trusted options for pursuing an evaluation. This may include connecting families with reputable local clinicians or introducing virtual diagnostic services that can provide more flexible scheduling and, in some cases, quicker access to an appointment.

Our team is committed to helping families better understand their options so they can take the next step toward an evaluation with greater clarity and confidence.

Meet Our Virtual Diagnostic Partner:Dr. Jazmin Burns

Cultivate Behavioral Health & Education is proud to collaborate with Jazmin Burns, Psy.D., of Burns Virtual Psychological Solutions.

Dr. Burns conducts virtual autism evaluations across all Cultivate BHE locations, guiding parents through the diagnostic process with care, clarity, and expertise.

Dr. Jazmin Burns is a highly experienced, neuro-affirming, and compassionate psychologist dedicated to helping individuals achieve mental and emotional wellness. With a Doctorate in Psychology, Dr. Burns brings a wealth of expertise and care to her clients. She specializes in neurodivergence and psychological evaluations and is passionate about empowering her clients to overcome obstacles and achieve their goals. Experience the transformative power of mental health and neurodevelopmental support with Dr. Burns today.

aba therapy
ABA Therapy
aba therapy

What to Expect in a Diagnostic Evaluation in South Colorado Springs

Here is an overview of the diagnostic evaluation process:

1

Parent Interview & Developmental History

The evaluation typically begins with a detailed conversation about your child’s developmental milestones, communication patterns, behaviors, and areas of concern.

2

Standardized Autism Assessments

A licensed diagnostician may use evidence-based tools to evaluate social communication, behavioral patterns, and other developmental domains relevant to autism testing.

3

Review of Findings

Families receive a summary of results and clarification about whether diagnostic criteria are met.

4

Next Steps & Recommendations

Families receive support and direction for what to do next, which may include therapy options and/or school and community resources that meet your child’s needs.

Why an Autism Diagnosis in South Colorado Springs Can Help

A diagnosis provides parents with a better understanding of their child, what is causing the problems, what are the strengths, and what helps the most.

What Families Do After the Autism Diagnosis

  • Starting Services: A diagnosis helps parents get services such as ABA therapy. Many insurance companies cover ABA therapy.
  • School Planning: A diagnosis helps parents get services through a 504 or IEP.
  • Resources & Programs: Many parents find valuable help through various autism support programs after they know what to look for.
  • Long-Term Clarity: A diagnosis helps parents plan for the future and make changes as the child gets older.

Ready To Get Started?

If you’re looking for support with autism evaluation in South Colorado Springs, we’re here to guide you through the next step with clarity and compassion.

Call us at 855-444-5664 to get started and have any questions answered. We’re happy to support you and your family.

Stay Connected

Learn More About Autism and ABA Therapy

Understanding the Different Screening Tools for Autism

Understanding the Different Screening Tools for Autism

Autism, or Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), is a developmental diagnosis that affects communication, behavior, and social interaction. Early detection and intervention are crucial for supporting children and families, and this is where diagnostic tools play a vital role. In

Read More

Frequently Asked Questions

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If you’ve been noticing developmental differences or behaviors that raise questions, an autism evaluation can help provide meaningful answers. A professional assessment offers insight into how your child communicates, learns, and interacts with others. Rather than continuing to wonder whether something may be affecting your child’s development, an evaluation can help families better understand their child’s needs and identify possible next steps for support.

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Autism evaluations can be considered at many stages of development. Some parents notice early signs during the toddler years, while others begin to have concerns once their child enters preschool or elementary school. If you are observing differences in communication, play, social interaction, or behavior patterns, it may be appropriate to explore an evaluation regardless of your child’s age.

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The timeline for completing an autism evaluation can vary depending on the type of provider and the format of the assessment. In some areas, in-person evaluations may involve longer waitlists due to high demand. Virtual evaluation options can sometimes offer faster scheduling, although exact timelines will depend on provider availability.

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Following a diagnosis, families are typically given recommendations for services, therapies, or educational supports that may benefit their child. Our team helps families understand these options and identify resources that can support their child’s development so they are not left navigating the process alone.

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Yes. Virtual autism evaluations are available and can be a convenient option for some families. Telehealth assessments may provide more scheduling flexibility and, in certain cases, allow families to access an evaluation sooner than traditional in-person appointments.

contact us today

get started with an Autism Consultation

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Dr. Jazmin Burns

Burns Virtual Psychological Solutions

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