Chattanooga
Autism Center
Autism Assessment Services
DISCLAIMERS: The CAC has compiled lists of autism-related resources in our region to help you save time searching for them on the web. This list of service providers is for informational purposes only and being listed does not constitute the endorsement of the CAC.
​
Always call the providers listed or visit their websites to verify ages served, insurance, etc. We try to keep this list updated, but some of our information may be out of date or incorrect.
If you would like us to add a resource or update a resource, contact us at 423-531-6961 opt. 0 or email info@chattanoogaautismcenter.org
Agape Youth Behavioral Health serves patients with ADHD, autism, depression, anxiety, and other mental health issues. Dr. Ken Pittman and Dr. Mark Jennings are Pediatric Psychiatrists who lead a team that offers autism assessments (including the ADOS), medication management, individual therapy, family therapy, social skills groups, psychological testing (including IQ and learning disabilities) and other psychiatric services. Almost all insurances accepted for most services although some services (including ADOS, psychological testing, and most social skills groups) are cash-only.
Ages served: 5 - 17 years old
Referral: Needed
Web address: http://youthbehavior.com/
Location: 1360 Mackey Branch Drive, Chattanooga, TN 37421
Phone: (423) 443-3336
Email: agape@youthbehavior.com
The Amy Piazza Preschool Assessment Center is a part of the Exceptional Education Department of Hamilton County Schools and can provide comprehensive developmental assessments for children that reside in Hamilton County. Tailored to the specific needs of the child, each assessment is completed by a multidisciplinary team of professionals in close collaboration with the family. This assessment team can also complete assessments for suspected developmental delays, other health impairments, orthopedic impairments, speech impairments, language impairments, and an intellectual disability. If a child is eligible for Individuals with Disabilities Education Act services, the PALS Center staff, in conjunction with the district’s lead preschool teachers, will develop an Individualized Education Plan. Because PALS' services are free they do not require any insurance coverage.
​
Ages served: 3 - 5 years old
Referral: Needed
Web address: https://www.hcde.org/cms/One.aspx?portalId=350278&pageId=3302218
Location: 1161 W 40th St Chattanooga, TN 37409
Phone: (423) 498-7200
The Anna Shaw Children’s Institute is a developmental center which provides assessments, diagnosis, and treatment of autism and other developmental delays. Our Developmental Behavioral/Neurodevelopmental Pediatricians Emily Brandt, MD & Medical Director, Nancy Carnevale, MD, begin the evaluation process. Using a collaborative team approach, additional assessments are provided as needed for each individual child. Our care team has two psychologists who complete autism, developmental, and psychoeducational evaluations. Additionally, we have outpatient pediatric therapy programs provided by our speech language pathologists (for speech and feeding therapies), physical therapists and occupational therapists.
Ages Served: Birth - 11 years old
Referral: Needed
Website: https://www.hamiltonhealth.com/services/anna-shaw-childrens-institute/
Location: 1201 Burleyson Rd Dalton, GA 30721
Phone: (706) 226-8900
They work with both children and adults and accept various private insurance plans. They also offer a sliding fee scale for those that qualify.
Ages Served: Children and Adults
Referral: Needed
Website: https://athena-nashville.com/our-services/testing-services/
Locations:
-
220 Athens Way, Ste 104, Nashville
-
109 Hazel Path Suite 4, Hendersonville
-
1725 Medical Center Pkwy, Ste 215, Murfreesboro
Phone: (615) 320-1155 (main intake line)
For parents concerned about their toddler's social communication development, the Autism Center for Children provides accurate identification and treatment of autism -- at the earliest possible signs of detection -- for the most immediate, profound and lasting improvement in their quality of life. Dr. Crittendon is a licensed clinical psychologist, Ph.D., BCBA-D, and the head of the Autism Center for Children. Her specialty is infant-toddler diagnostic assessment and early intervention for children diagnosed with autism. Types of insurance accepted are BCBS, CIGNA, Aetna, and Georgia Medicaid, as of June 2018.
Ages served: 1 - 3 years old
Referral: Not needed
Web address: https://www.autismcenterga.com/
Location: 429 Creekstone Ridge Woodstock, Georgia 30188
Phone: (678) 996-4998
Email: info@autismcenterga.com
Dr. Michelle McAtee is a licensed clinical psychologist who provides autism assessments through the Autism Education and Therapy Center. The clinic also provides ABA therapy. You can be added to their waitlist by going to their web address listed below and clicking on “Enroll Now.” Types of insurances accepted are BCBS, Tricare, UHC, TNCare Plans, and CIGNA, as of June 2018.
Ages served: 2 - 18 years old
Referral: Needed
Web address: https://autismetc.org/
Location: 6515 Holt Rd Nashville, TN 37211
941 Proessional Park Dr Clarksville, TN 37043
Phone: (615) 376-0034
Email: info@autismmetc.org
Autism Services of North Georgia offers autism assessments using the ADOS-2, the Vineland, ABAS, WISC, and other widely accepted assessments suitable for referral to services for individuals who are on the spectrum for autism, and for use in disability applications.
They are not in-network with insurances currently. But, they help clients request out-of-network reimbursement from their insurance providers. They accept credit cards and are awaiting notification of being on several insurance panels.
See the website for additional information
Ages Served: 2 to Adult
Referral Needed: No. Self-referral is fine
Web Address: asdngeorgia.com
Location: 407 N. Thornton Ave, Suite 4, Dalton, GA 30720
Phone: 770-538-1595
Emails:
The Babb Center works with all ages providing psycho-evaluations, consultations and therapy options. They accept various private insurance plans and offer a sliding fee scale & financial assistance for those who qualify.
Ages served: All ages
Web address: https://www.babbcenter.org/
Location: Hendersonville, TN
Phone: 615-824-3772
Amanda Surdock, PhD at Bearden Behavioral Health
Amanda is a Licensed Clinical Psychologist who graduated from the University of Mississippi. She has worked in a range of clinical settings from community mental health to residential care to consulting in the schools. Her specialization is in assessment and evaluation with children and adolescents. Amanda is experienced in working with individuals with autism, ADHD, developmental disabilities, anxiety and depression. She utilizes therapeutic approaches including Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), play therapy, social skills training, and biofeedback to provide brief and focused interventions.
Ages served: Lifespan
Web address: https://www.beardenbehavioralhealth.com/
Location: 162 D Market Place Blvd
Knoxville, TN 37922
Phone: 865-212-6600
Email: asurdock@bbhtn.net
Dr. Jason Steadman, Psy.D., ABPP is a board-certified developmental and clinical child psychologist who provides comprehensive developmental evaluations including autism assessments. He includes the ADOS-2 in his battery, among other tests. He is currently accepting new patients and provides treatment and evaluations for pediatric patients and their families, including services for anxiety, depression, autism, trauma, feeding problems, adoption, traumatic brain injury, and many others. He currently accepts AETNA, BCBS, Tricare, Healthscope, and EHN.
​
Ages served: Children
Web address: https://chattanoogapeds.com/
Location: 3328 Jenkins Road, Suite 200
Chattanooga, TN 37421
Phone: (423) 825-4040
Email: jsteadmanpsyd@gmail.com
​
If you are looking for a comprehensive​ and accurate evaluation for Autism Spectrum Disorder AND practical solutions to address ASD issues, then look no further than Dr. Quarto. While making a decision to move forward with an ASD evaluation can be a little anxiety provoking, Dr. Quarto's warmth and humility make the whole process a pleasant experience. :) Private pay only (but you'll be glad you invested in yourself on the back end!). In-person and telehealth options available.
​
Ages served: 18-65
Web address: https://chrisquarto.com/autism-spectrum-disorder-testing/
Location: 209 Castlewood Drive, Suite D, Murfreesboro, TN 37129
Phone: 615-403-5227 (for a quicker response send Dr. Quarto an e-mail)
Email: chris@chrisquarto.com
Dogwood Psychological Services of East Tennessee
Dogwood Psychological Services provides comprehensive psychological assessments for children, adolescents, and adults. Appointments are available in Johnson City, TN and Chattanooga, TN.
​
Ages served: 5 to adulthood
Location: Johnson City, TN and Chattanooga, TN
Phone: (423) 473-4373
Email: bess@dogwoodpsych.hush.com
Dr. Doineau accepts various private insurance plans. She works with children (ages 3 and up), adolescents, and adults and provides Individuals, couples, and groups counseling. Psychological evaluations/assessments: ages 2 months through adulthood
Ages served: Lifespan
Web address: http://www.deborahdoineau.com/
Locations:
-
2200 21st Ave. S. Suite 409, Nashville
-
1402 Rosewood Drive, Columbia
Phone: (615) 297-1816
The goal of the Autism Screening and Assessment Clinic is to provide identification of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), to inform intensive behavioral treatment, while addressing specific skill deficits and enhancing community inclusion. The Autism Screening and Assessment Clinic provides a state-of-the-art assessment to determine if children from 12 months of age to 5th grade qualify for diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). Using “gold standard” autism assessment instruments, a team of experts provides hands-on assessment, observations of child’s behavior, and in-depth interview with parents/guardians.
Teen and Adult Assessment Program (TAAP)
Some adults or teenagers with autism spectrum disorder will need updated assessments prior to attending college. Assessments may also be needed when applying for social security disability insurance (SSDI).
Ages served: 12 months - 21 years old
Web address: http://psychiatry.emory.edu/programs/autism/assessment/index.html
Location: The Justin Tyler Truax Building, 1551 Shoup Court, Decatur, Georgia 30033
Phone: 404.727.8350
Email: assessment.eac@emory.edu
Assessments for teens and adults contact: https://redcap.emory.edu/surveys/?s=EYXETKYY3P
Dr. Paul Long provides autism assessment and diagnostic services, including the Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule, 2nd edition (ADOS-2). Dr. Long also provides Cognitive-Behavior Therapy for individuals who have Autism Spectrum Disorder. Types of insurance accepted are BlueCare, Cover Kids, TNCare Select, UHC Community, Amerigroup TN, BCBS, CIGNA, TriCare, UHC, Alliant, Aetna, Humana, Magellan Health, and Beacon Health, as of June 2018.
Ages served: 3 - 17 years old
Referral: Needed
Web address: https://www.facebook.com/focuspsychiatricservices/
Location: 6400 Lee Hwy, Suite 110 Chattanooga, TN 37421
Phone: (423) 899-5081
Email: focuspsychiatric@gmail.com
The goal of the Autism Initiative is to improve Georgia’s capacity for early identification, screening, diagnosis, early intervention, and family support for children suspected of having, or diagnosed with, ASD. To achieve this goal, the DPH is partnering with state, public, private, and community organizations as well as universities to provide education, training, and support to providers, families, and advocates.
Main Location: Georgia Department of Public Health, 2 Peachtree Street, NW, 11th Floor, Atlanta, GA 30303
Phone: 404-657-2850 or 888-651-8224
Statewide Directory: (Parent to Parent of Georgia) 800-229-2038
Website: https://dph.georgia.gov/georgia-autism-initiative
​
The Harbin Clinic believes it is important for you to be involved in your healthcare, so they work with you to provide care that is tailored to your needs. Their services include child and adolescent psychology, and autism assessment and diagnosis. Call to ask for more information about their services, providers, and insurance.
Ages served: 2-17
Insurances: They are in network with most insurances including Georgia Medicaid.
Web address: https://harbinclinic.com/
Location: 701 Broad Street, Suite 350, Rome, GA 30161
Phone: 762-235-3640 (current waitlist might be around 4 months)
Journey Psychotherapy Center provides assessments and therapy for individuals, couples, and families of all ages. Dr. Erica Skidmore is a clinical psychologist with over 20 years of experience evaluating, diagnosing, and treating Autistic children and adults, as well as those with ADHD, anxiety, mood disorders, and other psychological challenges. Dr. Skidmore and other clinicians on her team have experience administering the ADOS-2 and other standardized measures used to diagnose Autism, ADHD, Intellectual Disabilities, Learning Disabilities, anxiety, OCD, and other psychological concerns. JPC does not accept insurance, but a sliding scale (ranging from $85 - $150/hour for assessments) is available based on household income. Journey's waitlist for assessments is typically only 3 - 4 weeks.
​
Ages served: 2 - adults
Referral: None needed
Web address: www.chattanoogatherapy.com
Location:
Chattanooga Office: 5721 Marlin Rd Suite #3800, Chattanooga, TN 37411
Cleveland Office: 393 Broad St NW #202, Cleveland, TN 37311
Assessment link: https://chattanoogatherapy.com/psychological-assessments
Therapy link: https://chattanoogatherapy.com/cognitive-behavioral-therapy (They also treat depression, trauma, anxiety, etc...)
Phone: (423) 521-5678
Email: chattanoogatherapy@gmail.com
​
​
The Marcus Autism Center offers autism evaluations by their clinical psychologists, with an estimated waitlist of 6-12 months. Other services provided are psychiatry, Severe Behavior Program, Feeding Program, Educational Outreach Program, and Language and Learning Clinic. Types of insurances accepted are BCBS, Aetna, Kaiser, and all Medicaid EXCEPT Ambetter, as of June 2018.
Ages served: 2 - 18 years old
Referral: Needed
Web address: https://www.marcus.org/
Location: 1920 Briarcliff Rd NE, Atlanta, GA, 30329
Phone: (404) 785-9350
Dr. McAtee provides therapy and testing to children, teens, and adults on the autism spectrum, including Asperger Syndrome, as well as to parents and siblings. While individuals on the spectrum have myriad strengths, many also experience anxiety or depression, or need someone to talk to better understand their experiences. She also provides therapy to parents and siblings who may need support in coping with the struggles that sometimes accompany having a family member on the spectrum. Her wellness approach includes cognitive behavior therapy, mindfulness techniques, and relaxation and stress reduction strategies.
​
Ages Served: children, teens, adults
Web address: http://www.michellemcatee.com/
Location: 109 Holiday Court #D6, Franklin
Phone: (615) 933-2695
Email: therapy@michellemcatee.com
​
Mind and Motion Developmental is an outpatient center that consists of clinical psychologists who provide autism assessments and diagnostic services using the Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule, 2nd edition (ADOS-2). The clinic also provides cognitive behavioral therapy, speech therapy, and occupational therapy, among other counseling services. To schedule an appointment you need to go to the website and fill out the Pre-Appointment form under “Click here for an appointment.” Types of insurances accepted are BCBS, UHC, Humana, Aetna, Optum, Magellan, Medicaid, Amerigroup, CareSource, PeachState, WellCare, and Ambetter, as of July 2018.
Ages served: pre-school age to adults
Referral: not needed
Web address: www.mindmotioncenters.com
Location: 5050 Research Ct #800 Suwanee, GA 30024
Phone: (678) 749-7600
Email: ellie@mindmotioncenters.com
This clinic was founded in 2017 by three licensed psychologists with over twenty combined years of experience working within school districts and clinical settings across the Southeastern United States. They specialize in comprehensive psychoeducational assessments of children, adolescents, and adults. They also have special expertise in the diagnosis of autism, dyslexia, learning disabilities, developmental delays, intellectual giftedness, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), behavioral disorders, and emotional disturbances that are likely to impact educational and daily functioning.
​
Ages served: 2 - adults
Referral: not needed
Web address: https://www.nashvilleassessment.com/
Location: 625 Main Street Nashville, TN 37206, Suite 202
Phone: (615) 988-0194
Email: info@nashvilleassessment.com
Accepts private insurance (BCBS, Aetna and UHC) for assessments only and serves infants through age 30.
Specialties Include: Testing and Evaluation, School Issues, Developmental Disorders Issues, ADHD, Anxiety, Asperger's Syndrome, Autism, Behavioral Issues, Child or Adolescent Depression, Emotional, Disturbance, Intellectual Disability, Learning Disabilities, Oppositional Defiance, Peer Relationships, Self Esteem, Traumatic Brain Injury
Types of Therapy Include: Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Family Systems, Psychological Testing and Evaluation, Solution Focused Brief (SFBT), and Strength-Based Models (SBM).
​
Ages served: serves infants through age 30.
Web address: https://www.nashvilleneuropsychology.com/
Location: 2200 21st Ave S, Ste 300, Nashville
Phone: (615) 933-3571
Dr. Korey specializes in psychological assessments for children and adults for Autism Spectrum Disorder, ADHD, and Learning Disabilities. She also provides individual and couples counseling for adults with high functioning ASD and ADHD diagnoses. The waitlist for autism assessments is 2-3 weeks. They are not in-network with insurance companies (private-pay only).
​
Ages served: 4 years old and up
Referral: not needed
Web address: www.northmetropsych.com
Location: 800 Kennesaw Avenue, Suite 250, Marietta, Georgia 30060
Phone: 770-485-3224
Email: info@northmetropsych.com
The pediatric psychologists at Peachtree Pediatric Psychology endeavor to provide a complete, in-depth assessment and accurate diagnosis in order to develop a personalized, effective treatment plan. Areas of specialty include evaluation and treatment of Autism Spectrum Disorders, child behavioral disorders (e.g., Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder); Oppositional/Defiant Disorder (ODD), trauma, anxiety, learning disorders, and neurocognitive deficits. Other services provided are psychological, psychoeducational, neuropsychological testing, and psychotherapeutic services. Types of insurances accepted are all EXCEPT WellCare, United, Kaiser, and TriCare, as of June 2018
Ages served: birth-21 years old, serves over 21 years old with any insurance but Medicaid
Referral: not needed
Web address: https://peachpsychology.com/
Location: 750 Hammond Dr NE Bldg 10, Suite 100 Atlanta, GA 30328
Phone: (404) 796-7777
Email: Admin@PeachPsychology.com
Neuropsychological evaluations address the cognitive, behavioral and emotional consequence of traumatic brain injury, stroke, dementia, or other central nervous system disorders.
Clinical psychological evaluations for Learning Disability, Intellectual Disability, ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder (Autism, Asperger's Disorder and Pervasive Developmental Disorder), Social Anxiety Disorder and PTSD due to violence or physical trauma.
Student accommodation evaluations provide specific testing that may be utilized when seeking accommodations, based on disability, for standardized testing or classroom accommodations in college.
Treatment, based on the principles of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, is provided to assist adult clients with specific psychological difficulties. Accepts private insurance and TennCare.
​
Ages Served: 4 - Adulthood
Website: http://www.wardtoday.com/
Locations:
-
695 President Place Suite 202, Smyrna
-
404 North Castle Heights Ave Suite F Lebanon, TN 37087
Phone: (615) 269-4990
​
Sense Lab is seeking females enrolled at 6, 8, 10, 12 years of age and followed annually over four years.
Participants include girls with confirmed or suspected:
- ASD: autism spectrum disorder
- TD: typical development
- ID: intellectual disability
​
Participants will come to Vanderbilt University Medical Center for an annual visit which includes a physical, psychological, and social interaction protocol. A diagnostic visit will occur during the first year to confirm or disconfirm ASD, TD, ID eligibility criteria.
​
Ages Served: 6, 8, 10, 12
Website: https://senselab.vkcsites.org/
Locations: Village at Vanderbilt, Vanderbilt Kennedy Center, Nashville, TN
​Phone: (615) 322-4132
​
The Center for Developmental Pediatrics at Siskin Children’s Institute was established in 2009 to serve children with special needs and their families in the Chattanooga region. With an interdisciplinary approach to early identification and intervention for neurodevelopmental concerns, our professionals work collaboratively with families to support the unique needs of each child. Our team consists of specialists in the areas of developmental pediatrics, speech pathology, occupational therapy, physical therapy, behavior psychology, and applied behavior analysis. We provide access to multi-specialty developmental services that include comprehensive assessment, diagnosis, and family-centered treatment, optimizing potentials and long-term developmental outcomes in infants and children. We specialize in the diagnostic evaluation, medical management, and family support for children with motor, communicative, sensory, developmental, genetic, neurological, learning, and behavioral disorders – including Autism Spectrum Disorder, complex ADHD, learning disorders, speech and language disorders, intellectual disability, developmental delays, and behavioral disorders.
Ages served: 18 months-5 years old
Referral: Needed
Web address: https://siskin.org
Chattanooga Location: 1101 Carter Street Chattanooga, TN 37402
Phone: (423) 490-7710
Email: Lisa.Spurlock@siskin.org
Nashville Location: 2201 Murphy Ave, Suite 306, Nashville TN 37203
Phone: (615) 730-8095
Ages served: Birth - 12 years old
​
​
Spectrum Behavioral Associates provides autism diagnostic assessments, among other diagnostic evaluations. They additionally provide in-home and clinic based ABA services with a focus on social skills training. They believe in a multi-faceted assessment, skill building, and appropriate goal setting to develop well rounded outcomes.
Ages served: birth- 25 years old
Referral: Needed
Web address: https://www.autismspeaks.org/provider/spectrum-behavioral-associates-llc
Location: 4492 Acworth Industrial Dr suite 100-B Acworth, GA 30101
Phone: (770) 974-2945
Email: hghackett@gmail.com
Offers evaluation and therapy for adolescents (12+) through adulthood.
​
Ages served: 12 - adulthood
Web address: https://www.spectrumcounselingllc.com/
Location: 256 Seaboard Lane, Suite F103, Franklin
Phone: (615) 208-3936
Spectrum Psychological Services (Georgia)
Sarah Golsen, PSY.D, BCBA-D provides autism diagnostic, psychological, and psychoeducational evaluations with a wide variety of developmental, emotional, and behavioral presentations. Dr. Golsen also provides behavioral therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, individual therapy for children and adolescents, social skills training, and parent training. Dr. Golsen is not in-network with insurance companies (private-pay only). She provides a superbill at the end of her session for patients to file on their own. Her assessment costs can range from $900-$1200.
Ages served: Birth - 21 years old
Referral: Not needed
Web address: N/A
Location: 2551 Roswell Road #525 Marietta, GA 30062
Phone: (404) 987-2531
The Speech Language Reading Center / Chattanooga Dyslexia Center provides high quality, individualized communication and reading intervention to children and young adults in the Chattanooga area. They are committed to providing their clients with the tools they need to effectively interact and communicate with others and to lead enriching lives. The Speech-Language Pathologists (SLPs) provide a comprehensive evaluation to determine the underlying cause of their difficulties. They provide therapy for a wide range of skills including articulation, language processing, expressive language, reading accuracy and comprehension, and social skills. Most of the SLPs are trained in the Lindamood Bell programs (www.lindamoodbell.com). One SLP is a certified NeuroNet provider (www.stepuptolearn.com). The Psychological Examiner/School Psychologist provides in-depth testing for students (1st grade through college level) to evaluate cognitive and academic abilities and determineeligibility for gifted, learning disabilities, dyslexia, dysgraphia, autism, and ADD/ADHD. The SLPs are in-network with Blue Cross Blue Shield insurance. The Psychologist is not in-network with any insurance.
​​
Ages served: 18 months - 21 years old
Referral: needed for BCBS clients
Website: https://chattanoogaspeech.com/
Location: 5819 Winding Lane, Suite 101, Hixson, TN 37343
Phone: (423) 877-5042
Email: office@chattanoogaspeech.com or rebecca.slrc@gmail.com
While T.E.I.S. does not provide assessments, they can help parents of young children get access to these services. T.E.I.S. is a voluntary education program for families with children with disabilities or developmental delays. If your child is under 3 years old, you may qualify for services and this can include an autism assessment provided through your school system.
Ages served: Birth - 3 years old
Referral: Not needed
Web address: https://www.tn.gov/didd/for-consumers/tennessee-early-intervention-system-teis.html
Phone: (423) 434-4401
Email: jane.bard@tn.gov
Services: Autism Assessments
Ages served: Birth - 18 years old
Referral: Needed
Web address: https://www.childrenshospitalvanderbilt.org/service-line/center-child-development
Location: Center for Child Development, 2416 21st Avenue, Suite 300, Nashville, TN 37212
Phone: (615) 936-0249
Type of Services Available
-
Free screening and/or evaluation for developmental delays and educational concerns.
-
A comprehensive diagnostic evaluation that may include psychological, social, behavioral, speech and language, and developmental/educational assessments.
-
If the child meets eligibility for special education services, an Individual Education Plan (IEP) will be developed, and special education services will be provided.
-
Based on eligibility and the needs of the child, related services may also be recommended, including speech therapy, occupational therapy, physical therapy, and special transportation.
Ages served: 3-5 years old
Referral: Go to website or call to find out process
Web address: https://www.wcsga.net/Page/1858
Location: 201 East Tyler Street, Dalton, GA 30721
Phone: (706) 259-6136
Fax: (706) 259-6163