Where can I Get an Autism Evaluation for my Toddler in Missouri?
In Missouri, obtaining an autism evaluation for a toddler depends primarily on their age and your location within the state.
For toddlers under the age of 3, the primary resource is Missouri First Steps. This program is overseen by the Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education and provides free evaluations and early intervention services for children with developmental delays.
Depending on your region, you can also access diagnostic services at major children’s hospitals and specialized centers:
- Kansas City: Children’s Mercy, KU Medical Center, and various private clinics.
- St. Louis: St. Louis Children’s Hospital and Washington University.
- Springfield: Mercy Springfield and Burrell Behavioral Health.
Before seeking a full evaluation, it is recommended to start with a developmental screening through your pediatrician or family doctor. This initial step helps determine if a comprehensive diagnostic assessment is necessary. Additionally, both private insurance and MO HealthNet (Missouri’s Medicaid program) may provide coverage for these diagnostic assessments.
Related FAQs
-
How Much does a Board Certified Behavior Analyst Make?
Read More »: How Much does a Board Certified Behavior Analyst Make?The salary for a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) typically reflects the high demand for and specialized nature of behavioral health professionals. According to information provided by the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), professionals in this field, often classified as…
-
What does a Board Certified Behavior Analyst Do?
Read More »: What does a Board Certified Behavior Analyst Do?A Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) is a graduate-level professional who specializes in applied behavior analysis to help children with autism and other developmental needs. Their primary role involves designing personalized, evidence-based treatment plans aimed at building communication, social skills,…
-
How do You Become a Board Certified Behavior Analyst?
Read More »: How do You Become a Board Certified Behavior Analyst?Becoming a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) is a multi-step process that requires specific education, practical experience, and examination. Educational Foundation: Start by earning a bachelor’s degree in a related field such as psychology or special education. Following this, you…
-
How Many Hours of Aba Therapy does Insurance Cover?
Read More »: How Many Hours of Aba Therapy does Insurance Cover?The provided content does not state the exact number of hours of ABA therapy that insurance covers for a child. However, it does clarify that Missouri law requires insurance coverage for ABA therapy up to the age of 21. Heart…
-
Does Heart Core Aba Accept Medicaid for Aba Therapy?
Read More »: Does Heart Core Aba Accept Medicaid for Aba Therapy?Based on the provided information, the content does not explicitly state whether Medicaid is accepted for ABA therapy. The documentation mentions that Heart Core ABA provides service in Missouri and Illinois and follows state insurance mandates—noting that Missouri law requires…
