Not sure if your child needs help?
Start here.
You've noticed something. Maybe it's how they play, or how they communicate, or a feeling you can't quite name. You don't need a diagnosis to reach out. You just need someone to listen.
Things parents often notice first
Every child develops at their own pace — but some patterns are worth paying attention to. These are a few of the things that bring families to us.
Speech or language delays
Not babbling by 12 months, limited words by 18 months, or losing words they used to say.
Limited eye contact
Avoiding eye contact during conversations, play, or when their name is called.
Difficulty with social interaction
Not responding to their name, not pointing to share interests, or preferring to play alone.
Repetitive behaviors
Lining up toys, repeating phrases, flapping hands, spinning, or intense focus on specific objects.
Sensitivity to sounds, textures, or light
Covering ears, refusing certain foods or clothing textures, or becoming overwhelmed in busy places.
Big reactions to small changes
Intense distress over routine changes, transitions, or unexpected situations.
Noticing these signs doesn't mean your child has autism — but it does mean a conversation with a professional is a good idea.
You don't need a diagnosis to call us
Many of the families who reach out to Opus don't have a diagnosis yet — and that's completely okay. If you're concerned about your child's development, that concern alone is enough to start the conversation. We can help you figure out whether an evaluation makes sense, connect you with the right professionals, and be here for you no matter what the answer is.
There is no cost, no commitment, and no pressure. Just a parent talking to someone who understands.
Here's what happens when you reach out
No complicated intake process. No clinical jargon. Just a real conversation.
You tell us what you're seeing
Call, email, or fill out the form below. Share whatever you're comfortable with — what you've noticed, what worries you, what questions you have. There's no wrong thing to say.
We listen and help you understand your options
We'll talk through what you've described and help you understand what it might mean. If an evaluation is the next step, we'll explain exactly how that process works and who to contact.
We help you navigate the diagnosis process
Getting a diagnosis can feel overwhelming. We can guide you through the steps — from pediatrician referrals to developmental evaluations — so you never feel lost or alone.
If ABA is the right fit, we're ready
If your child does receive an autism diagnosis and ABA therapy is recommended, we can begin services quickly — often within weeks, not months. And if ABA isn't the right fit, we'll help you find what is.
Understanding the evaluation process
Here are the most common questions we hear from parents who are just starting to explore.
Who diagnoses autism?
Autism is typically diagnosed by a developmental pediatrician, child psychologist, or neurologist. Your child's pediatrician can refer you to the right specialist.
What age can a child be evaluated?
Reliable evaluations can happen as early as 18 months. The earlier the evaluation, the earlier support can begin — and early intervention makes a significant difference.
Does insurance cover evaluations?
Most insurance plans, including South Dakota Medicaid, cover developmental evaluations when referred by a physician. We can help you understand your coverage.
How long does it take?
An evaluation typically involves one or two appointments over a few weeks. Wait times vary, but we can help you find providers with shorter wait lists in our area.
Let's talk
No commitment, no pressure. Just tell us what's on your mind and we'll reach out within 24 hours.
Questions we hear a lot
Absolutely. Many children with autism have strengths that can mask other challenges. If something feels off — even if you can't fully explain it — that instinct is worth following up on.
Not at all. A first conversation is just that — a conversation. There's no obligation, no intake paperwork, and no cost. We're here to answer your questions, period.
Then that's great news — and you've lost nothing by checking. We can also connect you with other resources if your child has developmental needs that aren't related to autism.
Research consistently shows that early intervention leads to better outcomes. While every child develops differently, there's no downside to seeking a professional opinion sooner rather than later.
We don't provide formal diagnoses — that's done by a developmental pediatrician, psychologist, or neurologist. But we can help guide you through the process of getting an evaluation and connect you with the right providers in the area.