Autism Testing Centers In Minnesota [Where To Get Tested]
Getting tested for autism can be a life-changing step — whether you're a parent looking for answers about your child, a teen facing challenges in school, or an adult trying to make sense of lifelong experiences.
Autism testing isn’t about putting a label on someone — it’s about understanding how a person thinks, communicates, and experiences the world.
With the right diagnosis, individuals can access therapies, services, and supports that make life more manageable, meaningful, and empowering.
In Minnesota, there are many trusted places that offer autism testing. Whether you’re searching for a top children’s hospital in Minneapolis, an adult-focused clinic in Duluth, or a university program offering low-cost evaluations, this guide will help you find the right fit. We’ll walk you through where to go based on your age, location, and budget — so you can move forward with clarity and support.
Who Might Want to Get Tested?
Autism can show up in many different ways. Some people may avoid eye contact or find it difficult to hold conversations. Others might be highly sensitive to sound, texture, or changes in routine. Some may have unique or intense interests, while others appear quiet, anxious, or socially “different.”
If you or someone you care about shows signs like these — at any age — getting tested can be a powerful and affirming step toward understanding and support.
What to Expect During an Autism Evaluation
If you're considering autism testing (for yourself, your child, or a loved one), knowing what to expect can help ease uncertainty. An autism evaluation isn’t a quick quiz or checklist — it’s a thorough process designed to understand how someone experiences the world, communicates, and interacts.
The goal is to gain a clear picture of a person’s strengths and challenges, so they can access the right resources, therapies, and accommodations.
How Autism Testing Works
An evaluation in Minnesota may include:
- Interviews – A licensed specialist (like a psychologist or developmental pediatrician) will ask detailed questions about development, medical history, learning, and social behaviors. If the person being evaluated is a child, parents or caregivers are closely involved.
- Observation – The evaluator may watch how someone communicates, plays, reacts to social cues, or handles change.
- Standardized Testing – These structured tools assess thinking skills, speech and language development, and social-emotional functioning.
- Questionnaires – You or your family may be asked to fill out forms describing behaviors, sensitivities, or everyday struggles that might signal autism.
For adults, the evaluation usually emphasizes lifelong traits — such as sensory issues, communication style, emotional regulation, and social fatigue — which may have been misunderstood or masked in childhood.
How Long Does Autism Testing Take?
Autism testing can take anywhere from a few hours to several appointments, depending on the clinic and the type of evaluation. Some Minnesota providers use a team approach — with input from multiple specialists — while others may have a single provider handle the full assessment.
Be prepared for the process to involve waitlists, especially at well-known hospitals or university centers. However, the time invested is worth it — as a clear diagnosis can lead to therapy options, school accommodations, adult services, and more.
Here’s a Minnesota version of the content, using the same tone, structure, and formatting as your Illinois example. It includes cost/insurance guidance followed by a city-by-city autism testing guide.
Costs and Insurance in Minnesota
Autism evaluations in Minnesota can range in cost depending on where you go. Private clinics may charge between $1,200–$2,500, while university clinics, nonprofits, or community mental health centers often offer reduced fees or sliding-scale options.
The good news: many insurance plans in Minnesota — including MinnesotaCare, Medical Assistance (MA), TEFRA, and private ACA plans — typically cover autism evaluations when medically necessary.
Before scheduling, call the provider and ask:
- Do you accept my insurance plan (e.g., Blue Plus, UCare, Medica, MA)?
- Are payment plans or sliding-scale fees available?
- Is a referral required from my doctor or therapist?
City‑by‑City Guide to Autism Testing Locations in Minnesota
City | Clinic / Center Name | Who They Test | Type of Services | Insurance / Payment | Website |
Minneapolis / St. Paul (Twin Cities Metro) | Fraser Autism Center of Excellence | Children, Teens, Adults | Diagnostic evaluations, ABA therapy, early intervention | Accepts MA, private insurance, sliding scale | |
University of Minnesota – Autism Spectrum and Neurodevelopmental Disorders (UMN ASD) Clinic | All ages | Research-based diagnostic services, developmental assessments | Accepts most private insurance, MA; some research opportunities | ||
St. David’s Center for Child & Family Development | Children | Diagnostic assessments, autism therapy, family support | Accepts MA, private insurance, sliding scale | ||
Autism Society of Minnesota (AuSM) – Referrals Only | All ages | Provider referrals, advocacy, support groups | N/A – referral-based only | ||
Rochester | Mayo Clinic Child & Adolescent Psychiatry and Psychology | Children, Teens | Comprehensive ASD evaluations, neuropsychological testing | Accepts private insurance; may require referral | |
Fernbrook Family Center | Children, Teens | Diagnostic evaluations, in-home therapy, school services | Accepts MA, private insurance | ||
Duluth | Essentia Health – Pediatric Psychology | Children, Teens | ASD diagnostic testing, developmental and behavioral evaluations | Accepts insurance, MA; referral required | |
Mankato | Mankato Clinic – Pediatric Behavioral Health | Children | Autism and ADHD evaluations, parent consultations | Accepts MA and private insurance | |
Greater Minnesota Family Services (mobile units) | Children, Teens | Mobile autism screening & mental health evaluations in rural areas | Accepts MA; sliding scale available | ||
St. Cloud | Central Minnesota Mental Health Center | Children, Teens, Adults | Psychological testing, autism diagnostics, therapy | Accepts MA and private insurance | |
Moorhead / Fargo Area | Solutions Behavioral Healthcare | Children | Diagnostic assessments, ABA therapy, school services | Accepts insurance, Medicaid | |
Free Evaluation Option | Minnesota State University Mankato – Psychology Clinic | Children (typically 2–12) | Low-cost or free assessments as part of student training clinic | Sliding scale or free (eligibility applies) | |
St. Cloud State University – Child Development Lab | Children (toddlers–early school age) | Screening services, early developmental observation | Free for qualified families |
Tips to Help You Choose the Right Location
- Check your child’s age and needs: Some centers focus on early childhood, while others serve all ages.
- Look at service types: Are you seeking just diagnosis, or therapy referrals (like ABA, speech, occupational)?
- Review payment options: Many centers accept insurance and Medicaid, and some offer sliding scales or free services.
- Consider wait times: University clinics and non‑profits may have longer waitlists, but sometimes offer reduced‑cost testing or training-based appointments.
- Ask about telehealth: Some places may offer virtual options.
How to Use This Guide
- Think of the person who needs evaluation (child, teen, adult) and their strengths/challenges.
- Find a center nearby with the right focus and services.
- Visit the center’s website or call to confirm services, wait times, and costs.
- Ask whether a referral is needed, how long the evaluation process takes, and what follow-up support is available.
Low‑Cost and Free Autism Testing Options in Minnesota
Getting tested for autism doesn’t have to break the bank. In Minnesota, several trusted programs and centers offer free or low-cost evaluations, especially for families, children, and individuals with limited income.
University Training Clinics & Autism Programs
- University of Minnesota Autism & Neurodevelopment Clinic (Twin Cities)
Provides multidisciplinary diagnostic evaluations for children (ages 1–18), staffed by supervised graduate clinicians, with reduced fees. Often connected with research-based services and adult transition‑age programs. - M Health Fairview / Masonic Children’s Hospital Autism Program
Offers autism assessments, pediatric neuropsychological testing, and connection to intervention services in a clinical‑academic setting. (M Health Fairview Peds)
State-Funded Early Intervention & Medicaid Programs
- Early Intensive Developmental & Behavioral Intervention (EIDBI) via the Minnesota Department of Human Services
Covers medically necessary autism evaluations for children and youth. Screenings and referrals are free, and full diagnostic testing through CMDE providers is covered under Medicaid or MinnesotaCare. - Help Me Grow Minnesota
Connects families (birth through age 5) with developmental and autism referral services through county or school district programs—at no cost, regardless of income or immigration status. (mn.gov // Minnesota's State Portal)
Community & Nonprofit Resources
- Fraser Autism Center of Excellence®
Minnesota's largest autism support provider, offering initial diagnostic assessments, behavioral services, and interventions for people of all ages. Sliding-scale fees and state-funded options may be available. (Fraser) - Autism Society of Minnesota (AuSM)
Offers support, community education, and referrals to low-cost or sliding-scale clinics—including adult diagnostic programs. (Golden Steps ABA) - Disability Hub MN & MinnesotaHelp.Info
Free statewide navigation networks that help families connect with autism testing services, understand eligibility, and apply for relevant supports. ( mn.gov // Minnesota's State Portal)
How to Choose the Right Evaluation Center
Look for these factors:
- Licensed professionals (developmental pediatricians, psychologists, behavior specialists)
- Age-appropriate evaluation programs (children vs. adults)
- Comprehensive assessments, not just screenings—ideally using tools like ADOS or multidisciplinary interviews
Questions to Ask Before Booking:
- Do you evaluate children / teens / adults?
- What is your wait time for an appointment?
- Do you accept Medicaid or offer sliding fees or payment plans?
- Will I receive a written report and detailed recommendations?
What to Do After Diagnosis in Minnesota
Autism diagnosis can bring relief and clarity—but also many questions. Here’s how to move forward with confidence:
Build a Support Plan
Read your evaluation report carefully—it may include referrals to therapists (speech, occupational, ABA), educational assessments, or community programs. Ask questions and clarify anything you don’t understand.
Explore Therapy & Education Supports
- Children: Minnesota schools are required to provide IEP/504 accommodations.
- Young children: School districts and early intervention programs may offer special education and developmental services.
(mn.gov // Minnesota's State Portal, mn.gov // Minnesota's State Portal)
For Adults
Adults may want support with employment, mental health, or life transitions. Minnesota offers:
- Adult diagnostic services via Autism Society of Minnesota
- Career and vocational assistance through MnCHOICES assessments and Disability Hub MN (Dakota County)
Join Community Supports
Support groups and workshops are offered through AuSM, Fraser, and local county programs. Community connection can make a big difference while navigating next steps. (Golden Steps ABA)
Know Your Rights
Minnesota upholds protections under:
- IDEA (special education rights)
- ADA (disability access)
- Medicaid waivers and Medical Assistance eligibility
Advocacy groups like Disability Hub MN can assist if you need help accessing your rights. (Golden Steps ABA)
