drsuzannafletcher@gmail.com

603-568-1784

Clarity, Compassion & Expert ASD Evaluation

The North Carolina Autism Assessment Center offers comprehensive, individualized autism spectrum disorder evaluations led by Dr. Suzanna Fletcher. We help families find answers and a path forward — with care at every step.

Compassionate, Expert-Led Autism Evaluations

At The North Carolina Autism Assessment Center, we are dedicated to providing clear, accurate, and compassionate autism evaluations for children and families. Led by Dr. Suzanna Fletcher, PsyD, our center focuses on delivering individualized assessments that honor each client’s unique strengths, challenges, and developmental journey.

Our goal is not only to provide a diagnosis when appropriate, but also to offer meaningful guidance, practical recommendations, and a clear path forward.

Appointment evaluation process

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Response after inquiry

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Individualized assessment

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What is Autism Spectrum Disorder?

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a developmental condition that affects how a person communicates, interacts, and experiences the world. It is called a spectrum because ASD can look very different from one person to another — some people may need a lot of daily support, while others live very independently.

ASD is a natural variation in how the brain develops and works. Every person diagnosed with ASD has their own unique strengths, challenges, and way of seeing the world. Respect, acceptance, and individualized support frequently make a meaningful difference.

A Simple 3-Step Process

Our structured evaluation is designed to be thorough, respectful, and as convenient as possible for families — with most steps available remotely.

Intake Interview

A conversation with the parent or caregiver to review the submitted intake form and gather additional information. The client does not need to be present. Your questions about the process are answered here.

⏱ 60 minutes

Parent Questionnaires

Parent or guardian completes standardized rating scales remotely using an online platform. These tools help gather essential behavioral and adaptive information before the in-person visit.

⏱ ~90 minutes total

In-Person Evaluation

The client visits the clinic for direct observational assessment. A parent or caregiver may participate depending on the client's age and developmental level. This is the core diagnostic session.

⏱ 90–115 minutes

Routines & Sameness

Gets upset by minor changes. Has obsessive interests. Must follow certain routines. Focused on specific parts of objects such as wheels.

Sensory Differences

Unusual reactions to sounds, smells, tastes, sights, or textures. May also seek out intense sensory input — spinning, rocking, hand-flapping.

Other Characteristics

May include delayed language, hyperactive or inattentive behavior, anxiety, unusual sleep or eating habits, and heightened emotional reactions.

Social Interaction

The North Carolina Autism Assessment Center offers comprehensive, individualized autism spectrum disorder evaluations led by Dr. Suzanna Fletcher. We help families find answers and a path forward — with care at every step.

Communication

Uses few or no gestures by 12 months. Does not share interests with others by 15 months, or point to show something interesting by 18 months.

Repetitive Behaviors

Lines up objects and gets upset when order is changed. Repeats words or phrases (echolalia). Plays with toys the same way every time.

What to Look For

ASD presents differently in each individual. These are common areas where signs may appear, as described by the CDC.

Built Around Your Family's Needs

We’ve designed every aspect of our process to reduce stress and provide clarity for families navigating the evaluation journey.

Flexible Appointments

Most appointments are conducted remotely via Zoom, so your family can participate from the comfort of home. In-person visits are only required for the final evaluation session.

Insurance Accepted

We work with families to accommodate insurance coverage. Contact us to verify your specific plan and discuss any financial questions before scheduling.

Calm Clinic Environment

Our clinic is housed in a peaceful yurt setting in Sanford, NC — a low-stimulation, welcoming space specifically suited for individuals with sensory sensitivities.

Individualized Approach

No two evaluations are identical. Dr. Fletcher tailors the assessment to each client's age, developmental level, and unique presentation — ensuring an accurate and respectful process.

Led by a Licensed Psychologist

Dr. Suzanna Fletcher, PsyD is a licensed psychologist in North Carolina who brings clinical expertise, compassion, and thoroughness to every evaluation. She supervises each multidisciplinary assessment and ensures every diagnostic conclusion is grounded in both standardized testing and individualized clinical observation.

Gold-Standard Assessment Tools

Dr. Fletcher uses clinically validated instruments including the ADOS-3, ADI-R, Vineland Adaptive Behavior Scales, PPVT, and more — the same tools used in leading research and clinical settings.

Comprehensive Written Reports

Every family receives a detailed written evaluation report covering developmental history, assessment results, clinical impressions, a formal diagnosis (if applicable), and tailored recommendations.

Family-Centered Approach

Dr. Fletcher works closely with parents and caregivers throughout the entire process — not just to assess, but to make sure families leave with clarity, direction, and confidence in next steps.

What Your Report Includes

Every evaluation concludes with a comprehensive written report — a professional clinical document you can share with your child’s pediatrician, school, and therapy providers.
Section 01

Developmental History

A detailed summary of the client’s background, including prenatal history, early milestones, regression patterns, sensory concerns, and behavioral development gathered from the caregiver interview and intake form.
Section 04

Diagnostic Impression

A clear clinical conclusion based on DSM-5-TR criteria, integrating all data sources. If ASD is diagnosed, the report specifies support levels for social communication and restricted or repetitive behaviors.
Section 02

Standardized Assessment Results

Scores and clinical interpretation from all assessments administered — including the ADOS-3, Vineland Adaptive Behavior Scales, PPVT, and supplemental measures — with percentile rankings and descriptive classifications.
Section 05

Tailored Recommendations

Individualized recommendations for next steps — which may include ABA therapy, speech-language services, occupational therapy, school accommodations, re-evaluation timelines, and family support resources.
Section 03

Clinical Observations

A narrative description of the client’s behavior during evaluation — covering eye contact, play skills, communication, social engagement, motor behavior, and sensory responses observed directly by the clinician.
Section 06

Resources & Reading List

Curated references including reputable organizations (CDC, Autism Society of NC), evidence-based family toolkits, and recommended readings to help families navigate life after an ASD diagnosis.

 

Begin Your Evaluation Journey

Every family deserves answers and a clear path forward. Reach out today — our team responds within 24 to 48 hours to help you get started.