Autism Assessments: What Every Parent Should Know

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Are you wondering if your child may be on the autism spectrum or what an autism assessment actually involves? In this episode of The Polaris Connection, we break down the entire autism evaluation process — from the first signs and screenings to formal diagnosis and next steps. You’ll learn what professionals look for, how assessments are conducted, and what parents can do to prepare.

Join us as we talk with specialists who explain testing tools, timelines, and common myths about autism diagnosis. Whether you’re beginning the journey or supporting someone through it, this episode offers clarity, guidance, and hope for families navigating autism assessments.

Meet Dr. Maylin Griffiths, Ph.D., a licensed clinical psychologist and founder of the Arizona Pediatric Assessment Center (AZPAC). With a dedicated focus on children and families, Dr. Griffiths specializes in comprehensive psychological and developmental evaluations, including assessments for autism, intellectual disabilities, learning differences, ADHD, mood disorders, and more.

Drawing from years of hands-on experience across clinical, educational, and academic settings, she also supports Independent Educational Evaluations (IEEs), coordinates treatment among multiple professionals, and has served in academic leadership, including chairing assessment committees.

Dr. Griffiths is deeply committed to a strength-based, child-centered approach, guided by the belief that “there is no such thing as a bad kid.”

Her work at AZPAC aims to bring clarity, hope, and actionable guidance to families navigating the complexities of developmental and mental health assessments.

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https://azassessment.com/autism-evaluations

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