At Koala ABA, our Comprehensive Diagnostic Evaluations (CDE) offer families a full-spectrum view of a child’s cognitive, emotional, and behavioral development. Whether you’re seeking clarity on communication, social abilities, or potential developmental challenges, our evaluations provide the foundation for meaningful next steps.
All assessments are led by experienced licensed psychologists and follow a multidisciplinary model for accurate, thorough, and compassionate analysis.
What Does a Comprehensive Diagnostic Evaluation Include?
Our CDE process includes:
Interviews with parents and caregivers
Developmental and medical history review
Behavioral observations in a child-friendly setting
Standardized cognitive and academic testing (if applicable)
Assessment of reciprocal social communication and emotional functioning
Review of behavioral strengths and challenges
A detailed written report with professional recommendations
Our evaluations go beyond diagnosis—they highlight your child’s unique developmental background and areas of strength.
Diagnostic Tools We Trust at Koala ABA
At Koala ABA, our evaluations are guided by research-backed, clinically validated tools that help us provide accurate, individualized results. Each child is unique, so we select tools based on age, communication level, and specific areas of concern.
Core Diagnostic Instruments
ADOS-2 (Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule – Second Edition)
The gold standard in autism diagnosis, this structured tool assesses a child’s communication, play, and social interactions in a standardized, reliable way.
EarliPoint (16–30 months)
An early-screening tool that uses eye-tracking technology to detect how young children visually respond to social cues—ideal for identifying developmental delays at an early age.
CARS-2 (Childhood Autism Rating Scale – Second Edition)
A behavioral rating system that helps clinicians recognize autism-related characteristics and determine their severity.
Developmental and Therapy-Based Evaluations
Speech and Language Therapy Evaluation:
Evaluates language development, articulation, expressive/receptive communication, and social use of language.
Occupational Therapy Evaluation
Focuses on fine motor skills, sensory integration, and how your child manages everyday tasks and transitions.
Physical Therapy Evaluation
Assesses strength, coordination, posture, balance, and motor planning.
Audiology Evaluation (when indicated)
Rules out hearing loss that might be impacting language acquisition or social behavior.
These tools ensure that every diagnostic report we provide is grounded in both clinical expertise and objective data, so families receive clarity, confidence, and actionable guidance.
Need clarity on your child’s development? We're here to help
Licensed, experienced psychologists, board-certified behavior analysts, and neurofunctional doctors specializing in developmental assessments.
Warm, supportive evaluation environment tailored to children
Clear, detailed reports with individualized treatment plans
Collaborative communication with parents and educational teams
Trusted by pediatricians and families across the community
Choosing Koala ABA means receiving expert evaluations and a roadmap tailored to your child’s needs.
Our CDE Evaluation Process
Here’s what you can expect:
Initial intake
Share your concerns and complete the required forms
Scheduling
We’ll coordinate convenient times for evaluation sessions
Evaluation sessions
Conducted in a relaxed, child-centered setting
Results & report
Receive a comprehensive written evaluation
Recommendations
Guidance on therapeutic options and school supports
Start your process
We support families throughout the diagnostic process and beyond
Have questions about autism?
Our FAQs here to help
What is a comprehensive diagnostic evaluation?
It’s a multi-component assessment that explores a child’s developmental, cognitive, and behavioral profile to support accurate diagnosis and planning.
What is a comprehensive diagnostic assessment?
Similar to a CDE, it’s a structured evaluation using interviews, testing, and observation to identify developmental strengths and challenges.
What is CDE in autism?
It refers to a Comprehensive Diagnostic Evaluation used to determine whether a child meets criteria for Autism Spectrum Disorder and to understand related developmental needs.
What is the difference between a CDE and the evaluation process at Koala?
The Koala evaluation is conducted by a team of three experts: a psychologist, a behavior analyst, and neurofunctional doctors.
Take the First Step Today
Empower your family with expert insight and support.
