How to Get an Autism Diagnosis in Missouri
State Regulation & Policy Notice
Rules change by state and year. Last verified April 23, 2026. Confirm eligibility, waitlists, and current application procedures with the linked state department or regional agency.
Quick Answer
A complete guide to autism evaluations in Missouri, covering First Steps early intervention, DMH developmental disability services, MO's insurance mandate, and diagnostic centers including Children's Mercy Kansas City and St. Louis Children's Hospital.
- Last updated April 23, 2026.
- Primary topic: how to get autism diagnosis in Missouri.
About this information
This educational guide is published by AutismHearts. It has not been independently clinically reviewed. Confirm important medical, legal, benefits, and education decisions with qualified professionals or official agencies.
Medical Disclaimer: This guide is for educational purposes only and does not substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
If you're looking for how to get an autism diagnosis in Missouri, the state is served by two outstanding children's hospitals — Children's Mercy Kansas City (consistently ranked among the nation's best) and St. Louis Children's Hospital / Washington University — alongside a state developmental disability system through the Division of Developmental Disabilities (DD) under the Department of Mental Health.
How to Get an Autism Diagnosis in Missouri: Your First Steps
Start with your child's pediatrician and request a referral to a developmental pediatrician or licensed psychologist. At the same time, contact Missouri First Steps if your child is under age 3. First Steps is Missouri's IDEA Part C program. Call 1-866-583-2392 to reach your regional provider. Free evaluations; no prior diagnosis required. Services begin within 30 days of the IFSP.
For children age 3 and older, contact your school district. Missouri districts must evaluate within 60 days of a written request at no cost.
Search diagnostic providers in Missouri →
Choosing an Evaluation Center in Missouri
- Children's Mercy Kansas City (Kansas City): Consistently ranked among the top ten children's hospitals in the country; their developmental and behavioral sciences division is excellent. 10–16 month waits.
- St. Louis Children's Hospital / Washington University (St. Louis): Top-ranked academic program; strong neurodevelopmental medicine. 10–15 month waits.
- SSM Health Cardinal Glennon Children's Hospital (St. Louis): Good alternative in St. Louis; Medicaid-friendly. 8–12 month waits.
- University of Missouri Health Care (Columbia): Central Missouri hub; developmental-behavioral pediatrics. 8–12 month waits.
- Private Practice Psychologists: Solid network in Kansas City and St. Louis metros; typical waits of 2–4 months.
Missouri-Specific Programs and Rights
Missouri First Steps — Ages 0–3: Call 1-866-583-2392. Free evaluation and services; no diagnosis required.
School District Evaluation — Ages 3–21: 60 days to complete at no cost after written request.
Division of Developmental Disabilities (DD) — All Ages Missouri's DD Division within the Department of Mental Health provides:
- Comprehensive Waiver: For individuals needing extensive supports including residential services and day programs.
- Supported Living Waiver: For adults living in the community needing lighter supports.
- Individualized Supported Living (ISL): Personal attendant and residential supports.
- Family Support Services: Respite, family training, and crisis supports.
Contact your regional DD office or call 1-800-207-9869 to apply.
Missouri Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) — Age 14+: Apply through the MO VR website for job coaching and career support.
Missouri Autism Insurance Mandate: Missouri's mandate (enacted 2010) requires state-regulated health plans to cover autism diagnosis and treatment including ABA. Coverage applies through age 21. Self-funded employer ERISA plans may be exempt.
Missouri Autism Guidelines Initiative (MAGI): MAGI provides statewide training and resources for professionals and families. Their online toolkit is a useful supplement for families navigating services.