How do you recognize the early signs of autism—and what should you do next? In this episode, Dr. Jennifer Poulos, a pediatric psychologist with deep expertise in developmental assessments for young children, walks us through the process of early autism diagnosis. Whether you're a parent concerned about developmental delays or a professional supporting families, this conversation provides clarity, empathy, and practical guidance for navigating the early years.

Discussion Points:

• Recognizing developmental differences in young children
• The importance of early and comprehensive evaluations
• Navigating insurance and choosing the right providers
• Emotional impact on families and practical next steps
• Creating individualized therapy plans and monitoring progress
• Employment and long-term outlooks for neurodivergent individuals

Summary of the Conversation:

Dr. Jennifer Poulos shares her expert perspective on identifying and diagnosing autism in children aged 0–5. She outlines the typical developmental milestones, when to raise concerns, and how to start the evaluation process. Dr. Poulos explains the nuances of comprehensive assessments, the role of early intervention, and how therapy should be tailored to each child’s unique strengths and challenges. She also provides emotional guidance for families, offering a hopeful and empowering view of what comes after a diagnosis, including support networks and long-term opportunities for individuals on the spectrum.

About The Guest:

Dr. Jennifer Poulos is a pediatric psychologist who specializes in early childhood developmental assessments. Her work focuses on helping families identify and address neurodevelopmental differences in the earliest years, setting children up for the most effective interventions and long-term success.

Key Takeaways:

• Early signs of autism often appear before age 3—trust your instincts and seek guidance.
• Comprehensive evaluations by experienced specialists are essential for accurate diagnosis.
• Early intervention can significantly impact developmental outcomes.
• Emotional support for families is just as vital as clinical treatment.
• Every child’s journey is unique—individualized care makes a meaningful difference.

Time Stamps:

00:00 – Understanding early signs and navigating insurance

03:36 – How to choose the right specialist

07:19 – The evaluation process

11:00 – What a comprehensive assessment includes

20:21 – Coping with emotions and practical steps post-diagnosis

38:25 – Building community and support

39:11 – Autism statistics and what they mean

39:48 – Employment opportunities for neurodivergent individuals

41:10 – What to do after receiving a diagnosis

45:41 – The role of therapy and early intervention

46:51 – Creating individualized therapy plans

51:30 – When and why reevaluation matters

Links for the Guest:

Connect with Dr. Jennifer Poulos on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drjenniferpoulos/

Visit Dr. Jennifer Poulos’s website: https://intownwellness.org/

If you're navigating the early stages of an autism diagnosis—or supporting someone who is—this episode is packed with essential guidance and heartfelt support.

Tune in now to gain clarity, confidence, and hope for the journey ahead.