Frequently Asked Questions

As You Are is a virtual clinic focused on reducing wait times for an autism diagnosis by providing evaluations through telehealth appointments. Families across the US are waiting years to get a diagnosis but As You Are physicians can get families answers in weeks.

Children need an autism diagnosis before beginning their care journey. Our team of physicians is here to provide early diagnostic services for autism through our virtual clinic. Our care sidekicks will help your family navigate the assessment process and answer your questions even after your child is evaluated.

A virtual clinic is just that – a clinic with no doors, no walls, and available wherever you are. Our team of physicians can provide telehealth visits for you and your child in your own home.

Unlike a traditional clinic or a doctor’s office that provides in-person appointments, our team can provide care for your child virtually, keeping you and your child in the comfort and convenience of your home, eliminating the need for inconvenient travel or the stress of unfamiliar environments.

As You Are offers services nationwide in all 50 states and Washington, DC.

Services are now available in Illinois, Indiana, Hawaii and Kansas.

At this time, our care team is dedicated to providing diagnostic services for children ages 16 months to 10 years old.

At this time our program is designed specifically for children between 16 months and 10 years old to provide an early diagnosis. We have expanded our pediatric services nationally and currently offer services to children in all 50 states. We are not currently planning to expand services to the adult population. We suggest talking to your healthcare provider, reaching out to the Autism Response Team or visiting about additional resources in your area.

Appointments can be scheduled from 7am-7pm Eastern.
Click here to start your appointment scheduling process.

Need to get in touch with a member of our team? The As You Are Support Team can be reached by phone or email:

Phone: 866-219-8595
Fax: Available upon request, differs by state
Email: [email protected]

Short answer – No, you do not need a referral from your physician.

Your physician may recommend that your child be evaluated for possible autism, and that’s where As You Are can help.

To schedule your visit, start here. We will guide you through the process in order to schedule your three virtual appointments with the As You Are team of physicians. *Depending on the needs of the child, additional appointments may be required. 

As You Are is designed specifically to help families schedule appointments quickly, drastically reducing the time-to-diagnosis. With As You Are’s process children as young as 16 months can receive timely and high-quality care in order to start the appropriate services for building the skills they need to thrive.

Our board certified pediatricians get special training to evaluate if a child has autism. They use methods that follow expert guidelines and were adapted for video visits during the pandemic.

The autism evaluation happens over 3 separate video appointments. First, the doctor will interview you about your child’s behaviors and development. Then they will observe your child’s behaviors using skill assessments made for different ages. The doctors will combine what they learn from the interviews and observations to see if your provide your child with the most appropriate diagnosis.

Our video platform allows the doctors to give your child their full attention during the evaluation, just like an in-person visit, but without having to leave home. Getting this personal care helps ensure an accurate result.

After you get the evaluation results, you can choose to meet with a Care Sidekick. This person will help connect your family to local resources and support services in your area. However, some state Medicaid programs do not cover this follow-up service.

Evaluations were traditionally always conducted in person. However, due to the effects of the pandemic, experts in the autism field had to adapt and developed methods to conduct diagnostic appointments using telehealth.

Our physicians are trained to implement these evidence-based assessment methods. Our evaluation process is complete in three individual virtual video appointments, including a clinical interview, standardized behavioral observation and results visit. Depending on the needs of the child, additional appointments may be required. 

Through As You Are, children can receive a diagnosis in under one month, enabling you to work with your child to build the foundational skills that will help them flourish. Typically we can complete full evaluations within 4 weeks from the time of intake.

Our process is designed to see children in weeks instead of months. We have appointments available for new patients in all 50 states.

At this time we only see patients virtually, which means your child can receive care in your own home.

No, a web browser-based video conference is easily accessed through a link sent to you via email or text after scheduling your appointment to make the process as simple as possible.

Yes. But it is recommended to use a tablet, laptop, or desktop computer. For the mobile experience, patients can use the Chrome browser on Android devices or the Safari browser on iPhone devices.

Supported Desktop browsers:

• Google Chrome (latest three versions), for macOS and Windows
• Microsoft Edge (chromium-based, version 79 and later), for Windows
• Safari (version 12+ on macOS)
• Firefox (latest three versions), for macOS and Windows

Supported Mobile Browsers:

• Google Chrome on Android (latest three versions)
• Samsung Internet Browser (version 12+) on Android
• Safari on iOS 12+

Important: The video conferencing software is not supported on other browsers (such as Chrome) on iOS, because those browsers do not support WebRTC.

To test your device and ensure it will work for the visit, you can use this link:

You will receive the link to join your virtual appointment in a confirmation email once you complete all the necessary paperwork.

Before your visit, please test your device’s audio and video by clicking the “guidance for preparing for your online visit” link to ensure no time is wasted during the visit. The actual appointment link will not work until the day of the visit, but this testing link will take you through a pre-appointment device check and is always available.

Make sure you allow the video conferencing software to access your device’s camera and microphone. If the issue continues, please call our Patient Support Team at 866-219-8595.

Our process starts with answering a handful of questions that will help us get to know your child. Then, you’ll be guided through a step by step process, designed to get you quickly connected with a physician trained in diagnosing autism spectrum disorder.

Understand how our process works in detail here.

The As You Are clinical team is composed of highly-skilled, board-certified physicians that are trained to evaluate children for Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). All of our providers are incredibly passionate about helping families obtain and understand an autism evaluation, as well as connecting them with vital resources, regardless of the final diagnosis.

Learn more about our amazing physicians here.

Our physicians are extensively trained to evaluate children between 16 months and 10 years old for autism using an evidence-based approach. We use validated standardized observation tools specifically adapted for telehealth and the particular tool used will depend on your child’s age.

We use a screening tool (MCHAT or ASDQ), a DSM-5 interview, and a standardized observation tool (TELE-ASD-PEDS or CARS-2obs) for all our patients. We also use a suite of 8 standardized questionnaires to screen for comorbidities such as fine motor delay, anxiety, ADHD, mood dysregulation, oppositional defiant behavior, adaptive behaviors, and sleep. These tools are completed in the course of three encounters, each lasting 30-45 minutes.

Yes! This qualifies as an official medical diagnosis. Some insurance plans have their own specific requirements that may differ from our evaluation process. However, our care sidekick team and physicians will work with your insurance company and provide documentation (and appeals if required) to help you access the services your child needs. We can also provide a letter with the diagnosis requesting a 504 plan and IEP evaluation for your child.

To download a copy of your results report from your patient portal, follow the instructions here.

Your dedicated pediatrician will work with you to develop an individualized plan of action for your child and connect you with supplemental resources. We understand the many pathways available and work with families to help make sure they get what they need, when they need it. Some states require families to use their care coordination program, so our team will connect you to those resources when necessary. *Care Coordination resources may vary by state and based on the child’s health insurance plan.

To download a copy of your results report from your patient portal, follow the instructions here.

Our team is happy to answer any questions or address any concerns that you may have throughout the process. Our phone number is listed below, and likely the best way to get in touch quickly. You can also email us at [email protected]. We aim to return all messages within 24 business hours.

Phone:866-219-8595
Fax: Available upon request, differs by state

You’re not alone! Many parents have questions about their child’s developmental milestones and wonder if their child has autism. This often comes with many emotions and questions: How will others perceive my child and family? Will my child be able to enjoy life? Am I able to make a meaningful relationship with my child? Asking these questions is part of the journey. It’s easy to feel overwhelmed as the journey unfolds. Our promise to you is that together we’ll get you answers, make a plan you feel great about and help you get connected to the care you and your family need. So, whether your child’s behaviors are best explained by an autism diagnosis or a different diagnosis, our physicians are here to help. 

It’s our goal to make sure every child gets access to the appropriate services they need in a timely manner. Although we’d love to see every single child, there are some instances when As You Are’s virtual autism evaluation may not be the best fit. If your child struggles with any of the below, we recommend an in-person evaluation.

1.  A significant history of trauma or abuse
2. Significant delays in motor and/or cognitive development which prevent a child from following 1- or 2-step instructions that involve coordinated movement, such as throwing a ball or pretending to feed a doll
3. Two or more existing psychiatric conditions. For example, oppositional defiant disorder (ODD) and anxiety, or attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and disruptive mood dysregulation disorder (DMDD)
4.  Cases where there is a strong parental concern that the child is masking autism symptoms, meaning they are only displayed in one environment
5. Significant oppositional or defiant behavior that will impair the child’s ability to participate in a virtual play-based assessment with a primary caregiver
6. Significant hearing or visual impairment

Signs and symptoms of autism can vary. What may appear to be autism could be delayed speech, hearing difficulties, or other developmental delays that have applicable therapies. Whether your child receives an autism diagnosis or another diagnosis, our physicians will provide individualized treatment recommendations for your child as part of every evaluation.

In your results visit your dedicated provider will review your child’s results in detail. They’ll go over next steps and answer any questions that you might have.

You’ll always be able to get a copy of your child’s results report. To download a copy of your results report from your patient portal, follow the instructions here.

A Speech Language Pathology Evaluation, often referred to as a speech and language evaluation, is a comprehensive assessment of a child’s communication skills and areas that may need support.

Just like our other appointments, families can meet with a Speech Language Pathologist virtually through video conference calls. During the appointment, a Speech Language Pathologist will assess various aspects of communication including, speech sounds, oral motor skills, language development, social communication and pragmatic language skills. 

The diagnosis of a speech and language problem refers to the difficulties a child may experience in the development or use of words and communication skills. It could affect the ability to understand language or express oneself. 

Speech and language problems can be effectively addressed through speech-language  therapy, a supportive and engaging process designed to help children improve their communication skills. Our SLPs specialize in creating personalized therapy plans that cater to your child’s unique needs.

An early Speech-Language Pathology evaluation is crucial for promptly identifying and addressing communication challenges or delays. Timely intervention through personalized therapies significantly improves speech and language skills, positively impacting a child’s overall development by fostering confidence and success in various aspects of life.

That’s fantastic! If your child has undergone a speech and language evaluation, simply upload the results and any additional documentation when completing the required paperwork before your appointment. This additional context is especially valuable for our physicians during the comprehensive autism evaluation.

You’re already a step ahead! When completing your paperwork, include the name of the organization providing services and the number of hours your child is currently receiving. We understand that educational facilities may offer their own speech and language services, which can differ from medical recommendations. In cases where a child is receiving services through school, a physician may still recommend a medical evaluation to ensure a comprehensive understanding of your child’s needs.

If you are ready to schedule a visit, you can click on the button below. We’re going to ask you to answer a short questionnaire known as the MCHAT or ASDQ (based on the child’s age) and provide your child’s health information, medical history and your insurance and/or method of payment.

For step by step information on our scheduling process, click here.

Schedule my Appointment

We know that understanding signs of autism can often be complex for caregivers. We’re here to help! Our physicians can help you understand if the behaviors you are seeing could best be explained by autism or another diagnosis and can help your child get access to intervention services and support earlier in development.

Start your journey.

If you need to reschedule your appointment, please call our As You Are Support Team at 866-219-8595. We will do our best to accommodate any necessary changes in scheduling your child’s appointments. Please consider our Appointment Scheduling Policy.

If you need to cancel your appointment, please call our As You Are Support Team at 866-219-8595 to reschedule. We require a 48 hour notification. Please consider our Appointment Scheduling Policy.

You will receive an email and text (must opt-in on the paperwork) one day prior to your appointment which includes a link to access your virtual appointment. We suggest hopping on about 10 minutes prior to your appointment just to make sure you can easily connect with your physician without any issues. If you run into any issues, we’re here to help! Just call 866-219-8595.

Great question! The video conferencing software has the ability to host up to three individuals for your virtual appointments. We understand that parents or other caregivers may want to be a part of the appointment and evaluation conversations, but may not be able to be in the same location. Specific instructions on how to join the virtual appointment in two different locations will be shared once the appointment is scheduled.

Once you schedule the initial appointment, you’ll receive an email from us with instructions on how to create your Athena Patient Portal account. The patient portal gives you access to information related to your services with As You Are. You’ll be able to see upcoming appointments, messages from the As You Are team, appointment notes and even recent test results. We recommend that you create your account before your child’s first visit.

In compliance with Telehealth laws our providers will only be able to provide services if the patient is located at the time of service in the state the physician is licensed in. If not, the appointment will be rescheduled to the first available date with a physician licensed in that state.

We value the time we have set aside to see and treat your child. We do not double book appointments. If you are not able to keep an appointment, we would appreciate 48-hour notice. There is a charge of $30 for missed or canceled appointments without 48-hour notice. 

If you are more than 15 minutes late for your appointment, we will do our best to accommodate you. However, on certain days it may be necessary to reschedule your appointment. Please notify our team if you are running late  866-219-8595.

Our team will make multiple attempts to connect with you and remind you to complete the required paperwork for your child’s evaluation appointment. If the information has not been completed prior to your appointment time, we may need to reschedule your appointment to ensure we are able to provide the appropriate care and best As You Are experience.. We apologize for any inconvenience and appreciate your understanding of our scheduling policy to ensure a great experience for all As You Are families.

Just like at a doctor’s office, the cost for As You Are diagnostic services is dependent on a child’s health insurance and specific plan. We understand health insurance can be confusing, so our patient support team is happy to help. As part of our process, we will review a child’s insurance benefits and review the potential out of pocket patient responsibility with their parent or guardian via phone before their first visit with a physician.

You can select your preferred method of payment: (1) self pay or (2) process services through the patient’s health insurance plan. Our team is happy to bill your health insurance and work with you directly to address any out of pocket expenses that your insurance allocates to you.

Our self pay options include:  Visa, Mastercard, American Express, and some HSA and FSA plans. (including HSA and FSA cards with these logos). Payment plans are available for those paying with a credit card. This can be setup in the patient portal.

Contact [email protected] or call our As You Are Support Team at 866-219-8595.

We accept insurance, including Medicaid, TRICARE and commercial health insurance. Coverage decisions are made by the health insurance companies (which may vary by state and are based on each child’s benefits plan).

Payment is based on service utilization and the patient’s specific health plan. Copays and high deductible plans can create variability in cost. We can help provide answers in a timely manner. Our Support Team is just a phone call away: 866-219-8595.

Each patient’s responsibility is specific to his or her health insurance plan (due to differences in copays, coinsurance, and deductibles). Payment is based on service utilization and the patient’s specific health plan. Copays and high deductible plans can create variability in cost.

We encourage you to call the As You Are Patient Support Team, who can provide you with an estimate of the total service costs prior to your first appointment.

Our team is happy to answer any of your questions regarding insurance. If you’d like, we can complete a thorough benefit verification on your behalf to provide you with information regarding your benefits for the As You Are service offerings. Get started below to get in touch with a member of our support team who will walk you through the process and share available options.

Check Eligibility

After each appointment is completed, our team will help process the documentation according to your preferred method of payment.

• Self Pay: you will receive a statement detailing the charges for the services rendered. These may differ slightly from the original estimate. (see above RE: payment options)
• Insurance: our team will bill your insurance plan and once the claim is fully adjudicated, you will receive a final bill detailing the amount covered by your insurance, and the remaining patient responsibility portion. Keep in mind that your final bill will consist of actual services rendered and may differ slightly from the original estimate.
  If you have any questions regarding the bill please call our As You Are Support Team at 866-219-8595.

That’s what we’re here to help with! Our Patient Support Team can work with you and your health insurance company to resubmit denied claims and appeal decisions. However, coverage decisions are made by your health insurance company. 

Didn’t find what you’re looking for or have more questions? Call us 866-219-8595 or Email us here.

While a physician referral is not required, we have two options to help your patient’s family navigate the process. Families can go directly to our website to schedule an appointment or your office can complete the referral form.

Following the results visit, families are provided a comprehensive report. To get a copy, our team must receive a signed release form sent directly to [email protected]. Feel free to use our forms if you do not already have one.

We are committed to protecting the privacy of our patients.

Therefore, if a patient has not consented for you to receive information, we will not be able to share information. We understand mistakes happen, so if you feel this was the case, we encourage you to speak with your patient and send in a consent form to release the information.

On occasion, families opt to stop receiving services. If this occurs, we would not have additional information to share.

Our team of full-time board certified pediatricians are specially trained to conduct autism evaluations with patients. Our team of pediatricians are under the supervision of both Developmental Pediatricians and Psychologists, who offer individualized case-by-case clinical oversight and actively contribute to clinical quality control procedures. Our clinical team undergoes rigorous comprehensive training spanning over a month before their initial patient interactions, and ongoing oversight for an entire year later. Overall, we find that having clinical supervision conducted by a multidisciplinary team enables us to provide optimal care to our patients.

Our team of As You Are board-certified pediatricians undergo six weeks (240 hours) of training that involves both asynchronous content and 1:1 mentorship. Our training paradigm includes 20 modules. It was created by Tom Frazier, PhD, and has undergone iterative improvements based on constructive feedback from our clinical advisory board (which includes Kristin Sohl, MD; Antonio Hardan, PhD; Dan Coury, MD; and Diana Robins, PhD). Our physicians also complete Center of Excellence training in some states. Before they begin seeing patients, they must pass fidelity testing using our behavioral observation tools. They also must pass reliability testing on 3-6 recorded cases. Once they begin seeing patients, clinical oversight is continued with supervision from both a Developmental and Behavioral Pediatrician (Steve Felix, MD) and a Child Psychologist (Katheryn Marsh, PhD).  

We closely track the diagnosis rates of all our physicians with an eye towards preventing over/under-diagnosis. We also use a machine learning tool that provides our physicians with a probability score based on the results of the screening tool, DSM5 interview, and observation tool (CARS-2 or TELE-ASD PEDS). Complex cases are reviewed by our provider’s peers and clinical experts to ensure accurate diagnoses/recommendations. In addition to case reviews, we have a weekly continuing medical education conference every Tuesday, where our physicians learn from external speakers. In the last few months, we’ve had external speakers from Boston Children’s, SUNY Stonybrook, University of Buffalo, Cincinnati Children’s and Stanford University.

We use a screening tool (MCHAT or ASDQ), a DSM-5 interview, and a standardized observation tool (TELE-ASD-PEDS or CARS-2obs) for all our patients. We also use a suite of 8 standardized questionnaires to screen for comorbidities such as fine motor delay, anxiety, ADHD, mood dysregulation, oppositional defiant behavior, adaptive behaviors, and sleep. These tools are completed in the course of three encounters, each lasting 30-45 minutes.

 Although we’d love to see every single child, there are some instances when As You Are’s virtual autism evaluation may not be the best fit. If your child struggles with any of the below, we recommend an in-person evaluation.

1.  A significant history of trauma or abuse
2. Significant delays in motor and/or cognitive development which prevent a child from following 1- or 2-step instructions that involve coordinated movement, such as throwing a ball or pretending to feed a doll
3. Two or more existing psychiatric conditions. For example, oppositional defiant disorder (ODD) and anxiety, or attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and disruptive mood dysregulation disorder (DMDD)
4.  Cases where there is a strong parental concern that the child is masking autism symptoms, meaning they are only displayed in one environment
5. Significant oppositional or defiant behavior that will impair the child’s ability to participate in a virtual play-based assessment with a primary caregiver
6. Significant hearing or visual impairment