Autism Diagnostic Evaluator

Position Summary

Terra Behavior Therapy Center for Autism is seeking a qualified and experienced Autism Diagnostic Evaluator to join our clinical team. The ideal candidate will have experience conducting comprehensive autism spectrum disorder (ASD) evaluations, administering standardized diagnostic assessments, and preparing detailed diagnostic reports.

The Autism Diagnostic Evaluator will work closely with children, adolescents, adults, and their families to assess developmental, behavioral, social communication, and adaptive functioning. The clinician will collaborate with other professionals to ensure accurate assessments and provide families with appropriate recommendations for treatment and support.

Key Responsibilities1. Autism Diagnostic Assessments

• Conduct comprehensive diagnostic evaluations for individuals suspected of having Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD).
• Administer and score standardized assessment tools, including the Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule, Second Edition (ADOS-2), when appropriately trained and qualified.
• Conduct caregiver interviews and obtain detailed developmental, medical, behavioral, and educational histories.
• Utilize additional standardized assessment instruments, as clinically appropriate, such as:
• Autism Diagnostic Interview–Revised (ADI-R)
• Childhood Autism Rating Scale, Second Edition (CARS-2)
• Social Responsiveness Scale, Second Edition (SRS-2)
• Vineland Adaptive Behavior Scales, Third Edition (Vineland-3)
• Gilliam Autism Rating Scale (GARS-3)
• Other developmental, behavioral, and adaptive assessments
• Assess social communication, reciprocal interaction, restricted and repetitive behaviors, and developmental functioning.
• Integrate clinical observations, caregiver reports, developmental history, and standardized assessment results.

2. Clinical Interpretation and Diagnostic Reporting

• Interpret assessment findings using DSM-5-TR diagnostic criteria.
• Prepare comprehensive diagnostic evaluation reports that include:
• Referral concerns and reason for evaluation
• Developmental and medical history
• Behavioral observations
• Assessment tools and procedures
• Standardized assessment results and clinical interpretation
• Diagnostic impressions and clinical rationale
• Recommendations for intervention, educational services, and additional evaluations
• Complete diagnostic reports accurately and within established organizational timelines.
• Ensure documentation meets applicable Michigan regulations, professional standards, and insurance requirements.
• Participate in clinical case reviews and interdisciplinary diagnostic discussions.

3. Family Consultation and Feedback

• Conduct feedback sessions with parents or caregivers to review evaluation findings.
• Explain assessment results in clear, understandable, and compassionate language.
• Provide individualized recommendations for ABA therapy, speech therapy, occupational therapy, psychological services, and other supports, as clinically indicated.
• Assist families in understanding recommended next steps and available community resources.
• Collaborate with families to address questions regarding diagnostic findings and treatment recommendations.

4. Clinical Collaboration and Quality Assurance

• Collaborate with BCBAs, psychologists, speech-language pathologists, physicians, and other healthcare professionals.
• Participate in multidisciplinary diagnostic evaluations when appropriate.
• Maintain accurate, confidential, and timely clinical documentation.
• Follow ethical standards and evidence-based diagnostic practices.
• Participate in ongoing professional development and assessment training.
• Maintain standardized assessment administration procedures and scoring accuracy.
• Support quality improvement initiatives within the diagnostic assessment program.

Required Qualifications

• Master's or doctoral degree in Psychology, Clinical Psychology, School Psychology, or another relevant clinical field.
• Current Michigan professional license appropriate to the services provided.
• Formal training in ADOS-2 administration and scoring.
• Demonstrated experience working with individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder and other developmental disabilities.
• Knowledge of DSM-5-TR diagnostic criteria for Autism Spectrum Disorder.
• Experience conducting clinical interviews, standardized assessments, and diagnostic report writing.
• Strong clinical judgment, communication, and documentation skills.
• Ability to work independently and collaborate with an interdisciplinary team.

Important: Independent diagnostic responsibilities must remain within the clinician's Michigan licensure and scope of practice. ADOS-2 training alone does not authorize a clinician to independently establish a medical or psychological diagnosis.

Preferred Qualifications

• Licensed Psychologist (LP) or another appropriately licensed diagnostic professional.
• Experience conducting comprehensive autism diagnostic evaluations across different age groups.
• Advanced training and demonstrated proficiency in ADOS-2 Modules 1–4 and the Toddler Module.
• Experience with differential diagnosis involving ASD, ADHD, intellectual developmental disorder, communication disorders, and other neurodevelopmental conditions.
• Familiarity with Michigan insurance documentation and diagnostic evaluation requirements.
• Experience working in an autism center, developmental clinic, or multidisciplinary assessment setting.

Key Skills and Competencies

• Strong clinical observation and assessment skills.
• Accurate administration, scoring, and interpretation of standardized instruments.
• Comprehensive diagnostic report writing.
• Understanding of child development and neurodevelopmental disorders.
• Ability to communicate sensitive diagnostic information professionally.
• Strong organizational skills and timely documentation.
• Cultural responsiveness and family-centered care.
• Commitment to ethical, evidence-based diagnostic practices.

Work Expectations

• Conduct diagnostic assessments according to established clinical schedules.
• Complete clinical documentation and evaluation reports within designated timelines.
• Participate in clinical meetings and case consultations as needed.
• Maintain professional communication with families and referral sources.
• Ensure assessment materials, scoring records, and confidential information are securely maintained.
• Adhere to HIPAA, applicable Michigan licensing requirements, and organizational policies.

Pay: $45.00 - $55.00 per hour

Expected hours: 10.0 – 15.0 per week

Work Location: In person