A Child-Friendly, Neurodiversity-Affirming Assessment Tool in Minnesota
Are you seeking autism testing for a verbal or nonverbal child in Minnesota? At Therapy Dynamics, I specialize in autism evaluations that are gentle, play-based, and developmentally sensitive. One of our most effective tools is the MIGDAS-2 (Monteiro Interview Guidelines for Diagnosing the Autism Spectrum), a strengths-based interview approach used to assess both verbal and nonverbal children for autism spectrum disorder (ASD).
What Is the MIGDAS-2 and Why Do I Use It?
The MIGDAS-2 is a unique autism assessment tool designed to capture the real-life communication and sensory experiences of children. Unlike rigid, test-heavy methods, the MIGDAS-2 helps us understand:
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How a child communicates
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How they respond to sensory input
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How they engage socially in a naturalistic setting
At Therapy Dynamics, I use the MIGDAS-2 to support accurate, affirming diagnoses for children across the spectrum—including those who are minimally verbal, high-masking, or emotionally sensitive in testing situations.
Autism Testing for Verbal and Nonverbal Children
One of the greatest strengths of the MIGDAS-2 is that it works equally well for:
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Verbal children, who can share thoughts through open-ended conversation
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Nonverbal or minimally verbal children, who communicate through play, gestures, or alternative methods
Using sensory-rich materials, toys, and guided observation, the MIGDAS-2 creates a safe space where children can show us who they are, without being forced into unfamiliar tasks or pressured to “perform.”
A Strengths-Based, Child-Led Assessment Process
At Therapy Dynamics, my autism testing process centers your child’s comfort, safety, and authenticity. The MIGDAS-2 helps me:
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Identify unique autism traits without focusing only on deficits
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Observe natural play, communication, and sensory responses
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Understand how autism presents across developmental levels, not just through scores
“The MIGDAS-2 allows me to meet your child where they are, verbal or nonverbal, expressive or quiet, and truly understand their neurodivergent experience.”
What’s Included in My Autism Evaluation Process
For children ages 3 and up, my autism evaluation typically includes:
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Parent/caregiver developmental interview
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MIGDAS-2 interaction session
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Standardized rating scales (e.g., ABAS-3, BRIEF-2, BASC-3, SRS-2)
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Cognitive or language testing (as needed)
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Sensory and behavioral observations
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Diagnostic report and feedback session
My approach is flexible, affirming, and individualized, whether your child uses spoken language, AAC, or nonverbal communication.
Autism Testing in St. Cloud
I provide in-person autism evaluations at my clinic in St. Cloud, MN for children. Telehealth is not an option for young children. My services are ideal for:
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Parents of toddlers and school-age children
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Educators looking to understand a student’s profile
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Families seeking a developmentally appropriate and neurodiversity-informed diagnosis
Why Families Choose Therapy Dynamics
As an autistic clinician and parent-centered evaluator, I know how important it is to feel heard, respected, and included in the process. Families choose Therapy Dynamics because I:
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Use research-based tools like the MIGDAS-2
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Provide gentle, play-based evaluation experiences
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Offer comprehensive support and easy-to-understand results
Ready to Schedule an Autism Evaluation?
If you’re looking for autism testing for a verbal or nonverbal child in Minnesota, I’d be honored to help you navigate the journey with clarity and care.