Autism Testing Centers In Oregon: Where To Get Tested

Getting tested for autism can be a life-changing step — whether you're a parent seeking answers for your child, a teen facing challenges in school, or an adult finally understanding lifelong differences.

Autism testing isn’t about labels — it’s about gaining insight. With the right diagnosis, you can unlock access to therapies, support systems, and services that improve daily living, relationships, and personal growth.

Who Should Consider Getting Evaluated

Autism looks different for everyone. Some people may struggle with social connection, sensory sensitivities, or daily routines. Others might have difficulty expressing emotions or adapting to change.

No matter your age, if you or someone you love shows signs of autism, getting evaluated can be an empowering first step toward better understanding and support.

In Oregon, you’ll find a wide range of autism testing options — from pediatric clinics and behavioral health centers to adult-focused specialists and university-based programs.

This guide will walk you through trusted resources across the state to help you find the right fit based on your needs, age, and location — so you can move forward with clarity and confidence.

Types of Autism Testing Services in Oregon

Not all autism testing looks the same. The process can vary based on your age, symptoms, and whether you're looking for a quick screening or a full diagnostic evaluation.

Here's a simple breakdown of the types of autism testing services available in Oregon:

Diagnostic Evaluations for Children

Early diagnosis can make a big difference for young children. These evaluations are usually done by a team that may include child psychologists, developmental pediatricians, and speech-language pathologists. The goal is to understand how your child communicates, plays, and relates to others — and compare that with typical developmental milestones.

What it includes:

• Parent interviews
  
  
• Play-based assessments
  
  
• Speech and language evaluations
  
  
• Observations of social interaction and behavior
  
  

These evaluations help families better understand their child’s needs and access early intervention services if autism is present.

Autism Testing for Teens and Adults

Some people aren’t diagnosed until later in life — especially if they’ve learned to mask symptoms or were misdiagnosed. Testing for teens and adults in Oregon typically focuses on social behavior, life history, and how autism traits impact daily living, relationships, and mental health.

What it includes:

• One-on-one clinical interviews
  
  
• Questionnaires about habits and communication
  
  
• Feedback from family, teachers, or employers
  
  
• Psychological or cognitive testing (in some cases)
  
  

This type of testing is especially helpful for individuals who’ve long sensed they were “different” but didn’t have a clear explanation until now.

Developmental Screenings vs. Comprehensive Assessments

If you’re unsure whether full testing is needed, many Oregon clinics offer developmental screenings — brief check-ins designed to flag early signs of autism. These are ideal for toddlers, young children, or adults who want a starting point.

If screening results show signs of autism, the next step is a comprehensive assessment — a deeper, more formal evaluation done by trained specialists that can lead to a diagnosis and access to services.

Quick tip:
Screening = quick check
Full assessment = deeper diagnosis

Who Performs Autism Testing in Oregon?

Depending on the location, evaluations in Oregon can be performed by:

• Developmental pediatricians
  
  
• Licensed psychologists
  
  
• Neuropsychologists
  
  
• University-based research clinics
  
  
• Autism centers with multidisciplinary teams
  
  

Each provider uses different tools, but the goal is the same: to better understand how someone experiences the world — especially in terms of communication, behavior, and social connection.

Top Places to Get Tested for Autism in Oregon

Whether you're seeking an autism diagnosis for your child, teen, or yourself as an adult, Oregon offers a variety of reputable clinics, hospitals, and programs that specialize in autism testing.

Below, we’ve grouped some of the top options by age group and type of service to help you find the best fit.

For Children and Teens

1. Oregon Health & Science University (OHSU) Child Development & Rehabilitation Center – Portland

What They Offer: Comprehensive autism evaluations for infants, children, and adolescents. Their team includes developmental pediatricians, psychologists, and speech-language pathologists.
Why Parents Choose It: OHSU is one of Oregon’s top medical centers for pediatric developmental care. They use gold-standard tools like the ADOS-2 and offer coordinated care after diagnosis.
Extra Support: Onsite access to therapy services and coordination with schools.
Website: ohsu.edu

2. Oregon Pediatric Assessment Center – Beaverton

What They Offer: Multidisciplinary evaluations for children showing signs of autism or developmental delays.
Why Families Like It: Child-friendly environment, highly rated staff, and shorter wait times than large hospitals.
Bonus: Offers speech and behavioral therapy referrals post-diagnosis.
Website: opacenter.com

3. Legacy Emanuel Children’s Hospital – Portland

What They Offer: Developmental screenings and formal diagnostic evaluations by specialists in child psychology and neurology.
Why It’s Great: Great option for children with complex developmental or medical needs in addition to suspected autism.
Insurance Accepted: Most private insurances and Oregon Health Plan (OHP).
Website: legacyhealth.org

For Adults

4. Oregon Autism Center – Portland State University

What They Offer: Diagnostic services for adults and adolescents through its clinical and research-based autism services.
Why Adults Choose It: Supportive, low-cost evaluations led by trained graduate clinicians and faculty. Particularly helpful for late-diagnosed individuals, including women and BIPOC adults.
Good Fit For: College students, working professionals, or adults exploring a lifelong pattern of autism traits.
Website: pdx.edu/oregon-autism-center

5. Adult Autism Assessment Clinic – Eugene

What They Offer: Evaluations for adults by licensed psychologists specializing in neurodiverse mental health.
Why It’s Great: Quiet, respectful environment tailored to adults who may have been misdiagnosed or undiagnosed in childhood.
Services Included: Written reports, therapy referrals, and post-evaluation counseling.
Website: (Check local listings; some services by referral only.)

6. Pacific University School of Graduate Psychology – Hillsboro

What They Offer: Autism evaluations for teens and adults through its psychology clinic, often at reduced cost through training programs.
Why It’s Unique: Sliding scale fees and research-informed practices make it accessible for people without insurance.
Bonus: Provides support after diagnosis for navigating workplace or educational needs.
Website: pacificu.edu

Multidisciplinary Autism Evaluation Centers

These centers bring together professionals from multiple fields — psychology, pediatrics, speech therapy, and more — to give a comprehensive view of a person’s developmental profile.

7. The Children’s Center – Vancouver, WA (serving Portland metro)

What They Offer: Multidisciplinary autism evaluations for children, often with behavioral therapy follow-up.
Who Qualifies: Children on Medicaid or with qualifying developmental concerns.
Why It’s Valuable: Close to Portland and great for families using the Oregon Health Plan.
Website: thechildrenscenter.org

8. Northwest Autism Center – Bend

What They Offer: Full-spectrum evaluations for children, teens, and adults. Known for using evidence-based assessment tools and providing detailed reports.
Why Families Choose It: Compassionate staff, personalized recommendations, and continuity of care after diagnosis.
Special Note: Private pay and some insurance plans accepted.
Website: (Check local listings)

Support Available After Diagnosis

Many of the Oregon-based centers listed above offer more than just evaluations. After diagnosis, they can help you:

• Understand results in plain language
  
  
• Develop a treatment or therapy plan
  
  
• Connect with services such as:
  
  
  • ABA, speech, or occupational therapy
    
    
  • School IEP support
    
    
  • Social skills groups or adult coaching
    
    
  • Counseling and community resources
    
    

What to Look for in an Autism Testing Provider

• Experience with your specific age group (child, teen, or adult)
  
  
• Clear, step-by-step testing process
  
  
• Licensed professionals (psychologists, pediatricians, or neurologists)
  
  
• Services available after the diagnosis
  
  
• Accepts your insurance, Medicaid (OHP), or offers payment plans
  
  

City-by-City Guide to Autism Testing Locations in Oregon

Additional Notes

• Age Matters: Some centers only serve children or teens, while others specialize in adult autism evaluations. Check age eligibility before scheduling.
  
  
• Insurance Check: Always confirm whether your insurance (or Oregon Health Plan/OHP) is accepted. Some clinics offer sliding scale or free services.
  
  
• Referral Needed?: A referral from a pediatrician or primary care provider may be required — especially if you’re using OHP.
  
  
• Wait Times: Larger centers or university-affiliated clinics may have longer waitlists. Consider calling multiple options and checking for cancellations.
  
  

Low-Cost and Free Autism Testing Resources in Oregon

Getting tested for autism can be expensive — especially if you’re paying out of pocket or don’t have insurance. Thankfully, Oregon offers several low-cost or even free options, especially for children and families with limited income.

State-Funded Programs

The Oregon Early Intervention/Early Childhood Special Education (EI/ECSE) program supports families with children under age 5 who may have developmental delays or disabilities, including autism. If your child qualifies, testing and services are typically free through your local school district.

• EI/ECSE Services: oregonearlylearning.com
  
  
• Find Your Local Program: ode.state.or.us
  
  

University-Based Autism Clinics

Universities in Oregon offer autism evaluations through research centers and training clinics. These services are often lower-cost and supervised by licensed clinicians.

• University of Oregon – Child and Family Center (Eugene): Offers diagnostic evaluations, often at reduced fees.
  
  
• Portland State University – Psychology Clinic: May offer autism assessments for children, teens, and adults through its training clinic.
  
  
• Oregon Health & Science University (OHSU) – Child Development and Rehabilitation Center (CDRC): Provides multidisciplinary autism evaluations. Some services may be covered by insurance or provided at low cost for qualifying families.
  
  

Nonprofits and Community Resources

Several Oregon-based nonprofits help families navigate autism testing and support services. Some may offer scholarships, referrals, or assistance with paperwork for Medicaid (OHP).

• FACT Oregon: Offers parent support, education, and system navigation help. Website: factoregon.org
  
  
• Autism Society of Oregon: Provides local resources and may help connect you with testing providers. Website: autismsocietyoregon.org
  
  

How to Choose the Right Evaluation Center

Not every center is the same — and a good experience starts with asking the right questions.

Look for These Features:

• Qualified Providers: Choose clinics with developmental pediatricians, psychologists, or speech-language pathologists who specialize in autism.
  
  
• Appropriate Age Range: Some clinics only test young children, while others also serve teens or adults.
  
  
• Comprehensive Services: Effective evaluations include interviews, behavioral observation, and gold-standard tools like ADOS-2.
  
  

Questions to Ask Before Booking:

• Do you assess [children/teens/adults]?
  
  
• How long is the waitlist?
  
  
• Do you accept Medicaid (OHP) or offer sliding scale payment?
  
  
• Will I receive a written report and follow-up support?
  
  

Choosing a center that answers your questions clearly, listens to your concerns, and makes you feel welcome is the first step toward getting the right help.

Do You Need a Referral for Autism Testing in Oregon?

Whether or not you need a referral depends on the provider and how you’re paying for services.

If You’re Using Insurance

Most private insurance plans — and the Oregon Health Plan (OHP) — typically require a referral from a primary care provider or pediatrician. This referral helps the insurance company approve and cover the cost of the evaluation. Check with your plan to confirm their specific requirements.

If You’re Paying Out of Pocket

If you’re not using insurance, you usually don’t need a referral. You can contact a clinic, licensed psychologist, or diagnostic center directly to schedule an autism evaluation.

For Schools or Early Intervention

If your child is under age 3, you can reach out to Early Intervention (EI) through your local Early Learning Hub. These programs offer free developmental screenings and services.

If your child is 3 or older, you can request an evaluation through your local public school district’s special education department — even if your child isn’t enrolled in school yet. Public schools are required by law to assess children suspected of having disabilities, including autism.

Autism Testing for Adults: What’s Different?

Autism isn’t just diagnosed in childhood — many adults are now seeking evaluations after years of wondering why they experience the world differently. Getting a diagnosis later in life can be validating and empowering.

What Makes Adult Testing Unique?

• Signs Can Be Subtle: In adults, autism might look like chronic social burnout, intense focus on specific interests, difficulty with transitions, or lifelong struggles with communication. These can sometimes be mistaken for anxiety, ADHD, or depression.
  
  
• Your Life Stage Matters: Evaluations consider how you function at work, at home, and in relationships — not just in school settings.
  
  
• Finding the Right Provider is Key: Not all clinics or psychologists are experienced in adult autism evaluations. Look for providers who specialize in or have experience with adult neurodiversity.
  
  

Why Adults Get Evaluated:

• To better understand themselves and their experiences
  
  
• To access accommodations at work or in higher education
  
  
• To connect with support groups or therapy tailored to autistic adults
  
  
• To gain clarity about lifelong traits or challenges
  
  

How Long Does Autism Testing Take in Oregon?

Autism testing isn’t a quick one-time visit — it’s a thoughtful, step-by-step process meant to understand a person’s unique strengths, needs, and challenges.

Here’s What You Can Expect in Oregon:

Initial Call or Intake:
You’ll usually start by filling out forms or doing a brief phone consultation. This helps the provider understand your concerns and determine the right type of evaluation.

Wait Time:
Wait times vary across Oregon. Some private clinics and developmental centers may have availability in a few weeks, while others — especially those in Portland or Eugene — may have waitlists that stretch several months.

Testing Day(s):
You (or your child) will meet with a licensed specialist, such as a psychologist or developmental pediatrician. Sessions may last several hours and could include:

• Answering questions
  
  
• Playing structured games or solving puzzles
  
  
• Talking about daily habits, behavior, and social experiences
  
  

Parent or Caregiver Input:
For children — and sometimes for adults — interviews with parents, partners, or caregivers can provide key insights. Their perspective helps complete the full picture.

Final Report:
After the evaluation, you’ll receive a detailed written report. This includes testing results, whether a diagnosis was made, and personalized recommendations. In Oregon, most providers deliver the report within 2 to 6 weeks.

What Happens After a Diagnosis?

Getting an autism diagnosis in Oregon opens the door to new supports, services, and a better understanding of yourself or your child.

If a Diagnosis Is Given:

You’ll receive a comprehensive report that includes:

• The diagnosis (if applicable)
  
  
• Specific areas of strength and need
  
  
• Actionable recommendations for therapy, school, or workplace support
  
  

You May Be Referred For:

• ABA Therapy (often for young children)
  
  
• Speech or Occupational Therapy
  
  
• Social Skills Groups
  
  
• Life Coaching or Counseling for teens and adults
  
  
• School Accommodations like an IEP or 504 Plan
  
  
• Community Support Services through Oregon DHS or local nonprofits
  
  

Other Benefits:

• Government Assistance: If eligible, you may access support from Developmental Disabilities Services (DDS), Social Security, or vocational training programs.
  
  
• Peace of Mind: Many families and adults report feeling empowered and relieved after finally understanding what’s been going on beneath the surface.
  
  

Even if autism isn’t diagnosed, the testing can still reveal other important insights — such as anxiety, ADHD, or learning differences — helping you get the right support.