How to Get an Autism Diagnosis in Virginia

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 Virginia, the state offers services through the Infant & Toddler Connection of Virginia for young children, and Community Services Boards (CSBs) — the local entry points for developmental disability services in every region. Northern Virginia families also benefit from proximity to Washington DC's Children's National Medical Center, one of the country's premier pediatric programs.

How to Get an Autism Diagnosis in Virginia: Your First Steps

Start with your child's pediatrician. Bring specific written observations — speech delays, limited eye contact, repetitive behaviors, difficulty with transitions — and request a referral to a developmental pediatrician or licensed psychologist for a comprehensive autism evaluation.

At the same time, contact the Infant & Toddler Connection of Virginia (ITC) if your child is under age 3. ITC is Virginia's IDEA Part C Early Intervention program. Call your local ITC program (find it via the Virginia Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Services website) or call 1-800-234-1448. Free evaluations; no prior diagnosis required. Services begin within 30 days of the IFSP being signed.

For children age 3 and older, contact your local school division. Virginia school divisions must evaluate children suspected of having disabilities at no cost within 65 business days of a written request.

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Choosing an Evaluation Center in Virginia

Virginia's diagnostic programs range from world-class academic centers to strong regional hospitals.

Northern Virginia / DC Metro

• Children's National Medical Center (Washington, DC — serves NoVA): One of the premier children's hospitals in the country; the Child Development Pediatrics program is exceptional. Fairfax, Arlington, and other NoVA families commonly use Children's National. 12–18 month waits.
• Inova Fairfax Hospital for Children (Falls Church): Strong developmental-behavioral pediatrics for Northern Virginia; 8–14 month waits.
• Children's Hospital of The King's Daughters (CHKD) — also serves Hampton Roads

Central Virginia

• UVA Children's Hospital / Child Development and Rehabilitation Center (Charlottesville): University of Virginia's program is strong and serves families across Central Virginia. 8–14 month waits.
• VCU Children's Hospital of Richmond / Children's Hospital of Richmond at VCU (Richmond): The major hub for Central Virginia; 8–12 month waits; good Medicaid access.

Hampton Roads

• Children's Hospital of The King's Daughters (CHKD, Norfolk): The main pediatric hospital for Southeast Virginia; developmental pediatrics program. 6–12 month waits.

Private Practice Psychologists Virginia has a strong network of licensed psychologists, especially in Northern Virginia, Richmond, and Hampton Roads. Typical waits of 2–4 months and often faster than hospital programs. Verify ADOS-2 and DSM-5 use.

Virginia-Specific Programs and Rights (Apply Immediately)

Infant & Toddler Connection of Virginia — Ages 0–3 Free early intervention for children under 3 with developmental delays. No prior diagnosis required. Contact your local ITC program or call 1-800-234-1448. Service coordinators help develop the IFSP and arrange services.

School Division Evaluation — Ages 3–21 Virginia school divisions must evaluate within 65 business days of a written request at no cost. If eligible, an IEP is developed. You have the right to an IEE at division expense if you disagree with their evaluation.

DBHDS — Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Services Virginia's DBHDS oversees services for individuals with developmental disabilities through four Medicaid HCBS waivers:

• DD Waiver (Developmental Disability Waiver): Comprehensive services for individuals with DD including residential supports, employment, and day activities.
• Building Independence Waiver: For individuals transitioning to or maintaining independence in the community.
• Community Living Waiver: Supports for individuals living in community settings.
• Family and Individual Supports (FIS) Waiver: For individuals living with family; covers respite, day supports, and skill-building.

Access to DBHDS waivers begins at your local Community Services Board (CSB). Find your CSB through the DBHDS website or call 1-800-451-5544. Waitlists for the DD Waiver can be significant — apply as early as possible.

Virginia Department of Aging and Rehabilitative Services (DARS) — Age 16+ DARS provides vocational rehabilitation services for autistic teens and adults. Apply online or visit a local DARS office.

Virginia Autism Insurance Mandate Virginia's autism insurance mandate (HB 1490, enacted 2011) requires state-regulated health plans to cover autism diagnosis and treatment including ABA therapy. Coverage applies to individuals through age 10 under the original mandate — though many Virginia plans now voluntarily extend coverage. Check your specific plan documents. Self-funded employer ERISA plans may be exempt.

What to Expect During an Autism Evaluation in Virginia

A comprehensive evaluation includes parent interview, cognitive testing, adaptive behavior assessment (Vineland-3), ADOS-2 and/or ADI-R, direct observation, and a written report (2–6 weeks after testing).

Once you have the report, bring it to your local CSB for waiver eligibility, your school division, your insurance company, and therapy providers.

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