Getting Your Child Diagnosed with Autism in Texas: What Parents Need to Know
When your child is showing signs that they may be on the autism spectrum, one of the first and most important steps is getting an official diagnosis. This diagnosis opens the door to therapies, school accommodations, and vital resources—but the path to getting it can look very different depending on where you go.
I want to share two main options for families in Texas, based on my own experience and what I’ve seen help other parents.
Option 1: Think Neurology for Kids
If you want a faster diagnosis, Think Neurology for Kids is my top recommendation.
- Pros:
- Appointments are usually much sooner than hospital systems.
- You can get your child’s diagnosis and report quickly, which means you can start services faster.
- Cons:
- If they do not accept your insurance, you will need to pay $500 out of pocket for the evaluation.
📍 Website: Think Neurology for Kids
📞 Phone: (281) 298-1144
Option 2: Texas Children’s Hospital (Medicaid Option)
If your child has Medicaid, you can go through Texas Children’s Hospital to get a diagnosis.
- Pros:
- Fully covered if you have the right Medicaid plan.
- Cons:
- Long wait list—you may wait months before being seen.
- The delay can slow down when your child can start services like ABA therapy or speech therapy, because most providers require the diagnosis report.
📍 Website: Texas Children’s Hospital – Autism Center
📞 Phone: (832) 822-1900
Important Note if You Start with Think Neurology
If you choose to pay out of pocket at Think Neurology, and later want your child to be seen at Texas Children’s Hospital, Texas Children’s cannot issue a new diagnosis.
- You would have to continue care with Think Neurology or
- Switch your Medicaid plan to one that Think Neurology accepts, or
- Pay cash for continued visits.
My Recommendation
If you can afford the $500, out of pocket for the evaluation, and depending on what your child needs, there could be additional costs. Think Neurology is worth it for the speed and peace of mind—especially if you want your child to start services right away.
If you cannot pay out of pocket, Texas Children’s is still a strong choice, but plan ahead for the wait time and get on their list as soon as possible.
A Note About Switching Between Providers
If you go to Think Neurology and pay out of pocket, but later need to be seen at Texas Children’s, it’s important to know that Texas Children’s cannot give you a “new” diagnosis if you already have one—they will use the existing report. You’ll either need to:
- Change your Medicaid plan to one they accept, so you can continue care at Think Neurology, or
- Pay cash for future visits there.
I know it’s a lot to think about. But my advice? If you can manage the cost, getting the diagnosis quickly through Think Neurology can make a huge difference for starting early intervention.
If you need help finding the contact info or figuring out your next step, reach out to me at hirahcares@gmail.com. You’re not alone in this.
Hirahcares 