AboutJames Michael Roan Expertise Expertise: Expertise: I can provide information on autism and Asperger`s syndrome. I cannot and will not attempt to diagnose at any time. I can answer general questions related to assessment and educational planning.
Experience I have specialized in the area of autism for nearly 9 years.
Education/Credentials M.Ed. School Psychology
M.Ed Adult Education
Past/Present Clients Children aged 2-18 diagnosed with autism, Pdd-NOS, and Asperger's Disorder.
Question I have a 9 year old autistic student who is ready for re-evaluation. He is non-verbal. What specific assessments would you recommend to assess his progress and needs?
Answer Hi Brenda;
I would use the Gilliam Autism Rating Scale-2nd Edition (GARS-2)-Teacher Report, or the older GARS (GARS)-Teacher Report. It provides a severity rating for the degree of autism. If the child is functioning in the Moderate range or above I would attempt a nonverbal IQ test, since IQ is the best predictor of response to intervention. I would use the Walker-McConnell Scale of Social Competence and School Adjustment-Teacher Report. It can be easily used to define social goals and to measure acquisition of those goals over time. I would assess executive functions. I use the Behavior rating of Executive Functioning (BRIEF)-Teacher Report. I would use the Brown ADD Scales-Teacher Report to look at attention. I would use the Behavior Assessment System for Children-2nd Edition (BASC-II)-Teacher Report to look for depression at this age. These areas are what comprise the social/ emotional, and intellectual functions that are typically impaired in children on the spectrum and defines what makes each one unique from the other. Finally, an augmentative communication assessment by a specialist in this area. This is all a lot of work but generates data of real value.
Kind regards,
James
Please understand that I do not, at any time, attempt to diagnose or rule out a diagnosis or condition over the Internet.
Disclaimer:
While James Michael Roan has attempted to make the information on this web site as accurate as possible, the information is provided in good faith without any express or implied warranty. The purpose of this web site is to provide information to families with children, teens, and adults with an autism spectrum disorder or other developmental delay. James Michael Roan does not prefer any one organization to another, and it is not responsible for the information listed on an organization's web site, or any disseminated information either verbal or written. Please be advised we are not giving medical advice and that circumstances can dictate different treatments. If these issues affect you or your loved ones you should seek professional advice. This site is operated for informational purposes only. At no time will James Michael Roan attempt to diagnose or dismiss a potential diagnosis over the Internet. We hope that you find our resources useful.
Bio
James Roan is a certified school psychologist who has been consulting in the areas of autism, Asperger’s Syndrome, and learning difficulties in the United States and in Ireland for over ten years (http://www.jamesroan.com). James earned his M.Ed. in School Psychology and M. Ed. in Adult Education and receives ongoing post graduate training in autism at the University of Washington’s Autism Center. James Roan has traveled to Galway, Limerick, Mayo, Clare, Dublin, Cork, Waterford, and other cities and counties across Ireland assessing children and adults, and consulting with solicitors (lawyers) in defense of children with disabilities. James Roan was the consulting assessment professional responsible for many of the autism and AD/HD screening tools and other content for Access Special Needs.Com. James Roan consulted with the graduate department of the Waterford Institute of Technology in Waterford Ireland in the development of their graduate program for the certification of private autism tutors. James has conducted formal assessments of students in the Autism Unit in the Claddagh National School in County Galway Ireland.
