The Wait is Over.
Quick Answers, Big Impact
Welcome to a streamlined process to give you clarity and start supports faster.
- No Waitlist. We’re scheduling now with quick start dates.
- Fast Results. On average, families receive their full diagnostic report within 4 weeks.
- Led by Licensed Professionals. Evaluations are completed by licensed psychologists and developmental specialists with expertise in early identification.
- Comprehensive Assessments. We don’t just screen — we take time to understand your child’s strengths, needs, and next steps.
- Seamless Transition. If appropriate, we’ll connect you to ongoing ABA therapy or other supports, without added delays.
Ready to Get Started?
Meet Our Assessment Team
Our evaluations are led by experienced psychologists and developmental specialists who understand the importance of early identification and compassionate care. We collaborate with our ABA team to ensure a smooth transition into ongoing support, if and when it’s right for your child.
Bradley Havelka Ed. S
Bradley earned his Education Specialist degree in School Psychology from The Ohio State University. He provides comprehensive psychological services for children and adolescents across a variety of educational settings. Bradley is dedicated to trauma-informed and culturally responsive practices that support each learner’s emotional and academic growth. His goal is to empower students and families through collaboration, understanding, and evidence-based care.
Katie Kuhlmann M.S., CCC-SLP
Katie earned her Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology from the University of Wisconsin–Milwaukee. She provides individualized assessments and therapy for children from birth through young adulthood. Katie is committed to working collaboratively with families to support communication growth across home, school, and community settings. Her goal is to help every child build confidence and meaningful connections through effective communication.
Dr. Mattie Hyland Psy. D.
A licensed Clinical Psychologist, Dr. Mattie attended Mississippi State University where she earned a bachelor’s degree in psychology then attended Eastern Kentucky University where she earned a master’s degree in psychology and a Doctorate of Psychology. She enjoys working with individuals of all ages and specializes in her work with children ages 3 and older, adolescents, and families addressing behavioral concerns, anxiety, depression, ADHD, and disruptions in the family.
Michael Perisa, MD, FAAP
A board-certified pediatrician and an active member of the American Academy of Pediatrics, Dr. Perisa has spent most of his life in Northeast Ohio. He completed his undergraduate degree at Case Western Reserve University then medical school at Northeast Ohio Medical University, a pediatric residency at Nationwide Children’s Hospital in Columbus, and finally a brief pediatric cancer and blood disease fellowship at St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. Shortly after starting fellowship, a few family members developed new health issues which brought him back to northeast Ohio, practicing as a general pediatrician. He couldn’t be happier with his decision as it has allowed his wife and his growing family more time with loved ones.
Request an Assessment Today
Schedule a diagnostic evaluation today — and take the first step toward clarity, support, and peace of mind.
Autism Assessment Program – Frequently Asked Questions
Families across Ohio are currently facing 12–18 month wait times for autism and developmental evaluations. These delays can prevent children from accessing early intervention services during critical developmental periods. Epicenter created this program to help reduce those wait times and provide families with timely, comprehensive assessments and clear guidance on next steps.
This program is designed for children ages 3-21 who may be showing signs of autism or other developmental differences and whose families are seeking a thorough assessment, clear answers, and guidance on how to move forward.
Evaluations are comprehensive and evidence-based, and may include:
- Standardized diagnostic assessment tools
- Clinical interviews and detailed developmental history
- Behavioral observation
- Review of relevant records
- A written diagnostic report with clear findings and recommendations
Families are guided through each step of the process and given time to ask questions and understand the results.
Epicenter uses widely accepted, evidence-based assessment tools appropriate for the child’s age and developmental profile, along with clinical judgment and comprehensive history-taking. Specific tools may vary depending on the individual child, but assessments follow established best practices in autism diagnosis.
Timelines are discussed during intake so families know what to expect, but the assessment is typically 1-2 hours. We keep assessments developmentally appropriate for the child’s age.
At this time, assessments are offered on a self-pay (out-of-pocket) basis. Epicenter is actively exploring insurance participation for this service. Our team will review fees and payment details with families upfront and answer any questions before scheduling.
If a child does not meet diagnostic criteria for autism, families still receive clear feedback and guidance. Recommendations may include additional evaluations, developmental supports, school-based resources, or other therapies that may be appropriate based on the child’s needs.
The goal of the evaluation is clarity and direction, not a predetermined outcome.
No.
Families are not required to pursue ABA therapy or any other services with Epicenter following an autism assessment.
Families receive recommendations based on clinical findings and are free to pursue services with the provider of their choice.
Yes. With caregiver consent, Epicenter can share assessment results and collaborate with pediatricians, schools, and other providers to support continuity of care and appropriate next steps.