Autism assessments for children in Vancouver
Comprehensive autism assessments with Dr. Erika Penner, a licensed psychologist and BC Autism Qualified Specialist, to understand your child’s developmental profile.
Dr. Penner works with children and youth. Age eligibility varies by assessment; the current age range for each appointment type is shown in Jane when you book.
What is an autism assessment?
An autism assessment is a comprehensive evaluation to determine whether a child meets the criteria for a diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder (ASD). It brings together several sources of information to understand the child’s developmental history, current functioning and behaviour.
In British Columbia, autism assessments follow the Ministry of Health Standards and Guidelines, which include the use of specific assessment tools so that a diagnosed child can receive intervention funding. Dr. Penner’s autism assessments are designed to meet these BC requirements.
Publicly funded assessments: the Province of BC provides publicly funded autism assessments through the BC Autism Assessment Network (BCAAN). Speak to your doctor or pediatrician about a referral to your local BCAAN centre.
Not sure whether an autism assessment is right for your child?
- Speak to your family doctor or pediatrician.
- Book a pre-assessment consultation to talk through your concerns.
- Request a callback if you have questions first.
The assessment process
Every assessment begins with a pre-assessment consultation, where Dr. Penner learns about your child and your goals and you decide together whether to go ahead.
- In-depth interviewingA detailed intake session to understand your concerns, your child’s developmental history and current challenges, including autism-specific interviewing using the ADI-R.
- Comprehensive evaluationStandardized diagnostic tools, behavioural observation and cognitive testing, using instruments such as the ADOS-2, WPPSI-IV-CDN and WISC-5-CDN.
- Results and recommendationsA comprehensive report with diagnostic findings, your child’s strengths and personalized recommendations for support, intervention and next steps, discussed with you in a feedback session.
What to expect
Appointments
Assessments usually involve more than one appointment with your child, followed by a feedback session. The number and length of appointments depend on your child, and are discussed at the consultation.
Interactive activities
The assessment includes activities, games and conversation designed to observe your child’s natural behaviour and communication.
Family involvement
Parents, caregivers or support people are encouraged to take part and share developmental and behavioural information.
Preparing for the assessment
- Submit any previous evaluations or reports electronically before the assessment.
- Complete the intake forms in advance.
- Make sure your child is well rested the night before.
- Bring comfort items if they help your child.
- Give any regular medications as prescribed.
- Write down your questions or concerns.
Autism assessment questions
How do I arrange an autism assessment?
Book a pre-assessment consultation through Jane, the online booking system Dr. Penner uses. The consultation is the required first step: it lets Dr. Penner learn about your child and your goals, and lets you decide together whether an assessment is a good fit. Booking a consultation does not commit you to completing an assessment.
What happens during the assessment?
The assessment typically includes intake forms and standardized questionnaires, interviews with parents or caregivers, direct observation and assessment of your child, and a review of school reports and records from other health care providers. It ends with a feedback session and a report that brings all of this information together.
Does my child need a referral?
A referral is not required. However, children under the age of 6 who are being seen for an autism assessment must first have been seen by a speech and language pathologist (SLP), as required by the BC Ministry of Health Standards and Guidelines for the diagnosis of ASD.
Before November 2025, a pediatrician assessment was also required. This requirement has been paused for accessibility reasons, but a pediatrician appointment is still recommended for families who have access to one.
What does an assessment cost, and is it covered?
Fees depend on the type of assessment. For current rates, request a callback or ask at your pre-assessment consultation.
Many extended health benefit plans include coverage for psychological services; please check with your benefits provider. Psychological services are not covered under MSP. Some community organizations, such as Variety BC, provide grants towards the cost of assessments.
More answers are on the frequently asked questions page. You can also read about Dr. Penner.
Ready to take the next step?
Book a pre-assessment consultation in Jane, or request a callback if you would like to ask a question first.