Autism Evaluation & Diagnosis

In Sebastian

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

Our ABA Center:
1424 US Hwy 1 Ste C, Sebastian, FL 32958

For many families, exploring an autism evaluation begins with noticing small differences in their child’s development. You may have questions about how your child communicates, interacts with others, plays, or responds to changes in routine and sensory experiences. When those questions arise, it’s natural to want a clearer understanding of what your child may be experiencing.

It’s also common for parents to feel uncertain about what a diagnosis could mean. Concerns about labels or long-term outcomes are very normal. However, many families find that gaining a better understanding of their child’s needs actually brings relief and direction, helping them feel more confident in how they support their child each day.

An autism evaluation can provide valuable insight into how a child learns, communicates, and experiences the world around them. With this understanding, families can begin identifying strategies, resources, and services that support their child’s development at home, in school, and within the community.

At Cultivate Behavioral Health & Education, we support families throughout Sebastian and the surrounding Indian River County communities who are exploring an autism diagnosis for their child. While our clinics do not conduct diagnostic evaluations directly, we help families connect with trusted in-person providers as well as virtual autism evaluation options that may offer greater flexibility when scheduling an appointment.

An autism diagnosis does not define a child’s potential. Instead, it provides helpful insight that can guide families toward the services, supports, and resources that help their child continue to grow and thrive.

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 Sebastian, FL may sometimes experience longer waitlists or limited appointment availability with diagnostic providers. Access to autism testing or a formal diagnosis near Sebastian can vary depending on local demand and provider schedules. While our clinics do not conduct autism diagnostic evaluations directly, we support families in Sebastian and the surrounding Indian River County communities by helping them identify trusted in-person clinicians as well as virtual evaluation options that may offer greater scheduling flexibility and shorter wait times. Our goal is to help families better understand their options so they can move forward with clarity and confidence as they determine the best next step.

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
ASD diagnosis

What to Expect in a Diagnostic Evaluation in Sebastian

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 Sebastian 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 Sebastian, 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

icon

If you have concerns about your child’s development, an autism evaluation can provide helpful answers. A comprehensive assessment allows professionals to better understand how your child communicates, interacts socially, and processes their environment. For many families, the evaluation process helps replace uncertainty with clearer insight that can guide decisions about therapies, educational supports, and other resources.

icon

Children can be evaluated for autism at many stages of development. Some parents notice early signs during the toddler years, while others begin to have concerns once their child starts preschool or elementary school. If you are observing differences in communication, social engagement, play, or behavior, it may be worthwhile to explore an evaluation regardless of your child’s age.

icon

The timeline for completing an autism evaluation can vary depending on the provider and the format of the assessment. In-person evaluations may involve longer waitlists due to demand in certain areas. Virtual evaluation options can sometimes offer more flexible scheduling and may allow families to access an appointment sooner.

icon

After a diagnosis, families are usually provided with recommendations for therapies, educational supports, and developmental services that can help their child build important skills. Our team helps families understand these recommendations and identify resources that may support their child’s growth and development.

icon

Yes. Virtual autism evaluations may be available and can be a helpful option for families seeking greater scheduling flexibility. Telehealth assessments can sometimes reduce wait times and provide convenient access to qualified diagnostic providers.

contact us today

get started with an Autism Consultation

SMS

Dr. Jazmin Burns

Burns Virtual Psychological Solutions

Therapist Name

Therapist Designation