ADOS-2 Testing in NYC
Gold-standard autism diagnostic assessment by a research-reliable ADOS-2 certified psychologist in Manhattan. Comprehensive evaluations for children, teens, and adults.
You've been told you or your child needs "ADOS testing" as part of an autism evaluation. But what exactly is the ADOS-2? Who's qualified to administer it? And how do you find a psychologist in NYC with the right training and experience?
The ADOS-2 (Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule, Second Edition) is the gold-standard observational assessment for autism diagnosis, used by trained psychologists to evaluate social communication, interaction, and behaviors associated with autism spectrum disorder.
Dr. Harry Voulgarakis is a research-reliable ADOS-2 certified psychologist in New York City, providing comprehensive autism evaluations using the ADOS-2, ADI-R, and neuropsychological testing for children, teens, and adults in Manhattan and throughout New York.
What Is the ADOS-2?
The ADOS-2 is a standardized, semi-structured observational assessment that directly evaluates social communication, interaction, play, and behaviors associated with autism.
Unlike questionnaires or checklists, the ADOS-2 involves structured and unstructured activities designed to elicit autism-related behaviors in a controlled setting, allowing trained psychologists to observe how individuals:
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Engage in social interaction and reciprocal communication
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Use verbal and nonverbal communication
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Respond to social cues and changes in routine
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Demonstrate play, imagination, and restricted or repetitive behaviors
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The ADOS-2 includes five modules designed for different developmental and language levels, from toddlers with no speech to verbally fluent adults.
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Key point: The ADOS-2 is not a screening tool—it's a comprehensive diagnostic assessment that requires specialized training to administer and interpret correctly.
Who Can Administer the ADOS-2?
Not all psychologists are trained to administer the ADOS-2.
The ADOS-2 requires:
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Formal training and certification in ADOS-2 administration
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Clinical expertise in autism assessment across developmental levels
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Experience interpreting ADOS-2 results in the context of comprehensive evaluation
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Dr. Voulgarakis is research-reliable ADOS-2 certified, meaning he has completed advanced ADOS-2 training and demonstrated reliability in administration and scoring—the highest level of ADOS-2 certification. This ensures accurate, consistent assessment that meets research and clinical standards.
He is also trained in the ADI-R (Autism Diagnostic Interview-Revised), the companion diagnostic interview used alongside the ADOS-2 for comprehensive autism evaluation.
ADOS-2 in Comprehensive Autism Evaluation
The ADOS-2 is one component of a thorough autism evaluation—not a standalone test.
A comprehensive autism assessment at HMV Psychology includes:
ADOS-2 Administration
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Age- and language-appropriate module selection
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Structured activities and social interaction tasks (typically 40-60 minutes)
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Direct observation of communication, social reciprocity, play, and behavior
ADI-R (Autism Diagnostic Interview-Revised)
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In-depth developmental history interview with parent or caregiver
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Questions about early development, communication milestones, social interaction patterns, and behaviors
Cognitive and Neuropsychological Testing
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Intellectual and cognitive assessment
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Executive function, memory, and processing speed evaluation
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Identifies strengths and areas of need beyond autism diagnosis
Adaptive Functioning Assessment
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Daily living skills and real-world functioning
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Self-care, social skills, and independent living abilities
Differential Diagnosis
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Is it autism, ADHD, anxiety, learning disabilities, or a combination?
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Co-occurring conditions are identified and addressed
Comprehensive Report
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ADOS-2 scores and interpretation
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Diagnostic conclusions based on DSM-5 criteria
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Specific recommendations for therapy, school services, and family support
ADOS-2 Testing Across Ages
Toddlers & Young Children
(Modules Toddler, 1, 2)​
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Play-based assessment with toys and structured activities
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Observation of joint attention, social engagement, communication, and sensory responses
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Parent interview (ADI-R) captures early developmental history
School-Age Children & Teens (Modules 2, 3)
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Conversation, storytelling, and social problem-solving tasks
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Observation of peer interaction, imaginative play, and flexibility
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Assessment of language use and social reciprocity
Adolescents & Adults
(Module 4)
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Conversational assessment and social interaction tasks
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Discussion of relationships, work, daily functioning, and social experiences
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Evaluation of subtle social communication differences and late-diagnosed presentations
Why Families Choose HMV Psychology for ADOS-2 Testing
Research-Reliable ADOS-2 Certification
Dr. Voulgarakis has completed advanced ADOS-2 training and demonstrated scoring reliability—ensuring accurate, consistent assessment
Specialized Training & Experience
Dr. Voulgarakis trained at the Seaver Autism Center at Mount Sinai in New York. Nearly 15 years focused specifically on autism and neurodevelopmental conditions.
Dual Expertise: Psychology + Behavior Analysis
Dr. Voulgarakis is a licensed psychologist, neuropsychologist, and board-certified behavior analyst (BCBA-D)—a rare triple combination bringing deeper insight into neurodevelopmental conditions and behavior change.
Neurodiversity-Affirming Care
We honor different ways of thinking. Our goal isn't to make anyone "normal"—it's to help autistic individuals and families thrive as their authentic selves.
NYC School System Expertise
Approved for NYC DOE Independent Educational Evaluations (IEE). We help families advocate for appropriate school services.
Convenient Manhattan Location + Telehealth
In-person services on the Upper West Side or remote therapy across New York State
