ADOS-2 Resources
Your Hub for all things ADOS-2. Get answers to common questions and deepen your expertise.
ADOS-2 frequent questions
Who can administer the ADOS-2?
The ADOS-2 can be administered by anyone with a master’s degree in psychology, school counseling, occupational therapy, speech-language pathology, social work, education, special education as well as clinicians who have a professional mandate to treat autism spectrum disorders.
What is the difference between ADOS and ADOS-2?
The ADOS-2 is a revision of the ADOS instrument. It includes new features such as revised algorithms, updated protocols with clearer guidelines on how to administer and code and a new Toddler module, which is designed for minimally verbal children of ages 12 to 30 months.
Is the ADOS-2 enough to make an autism diagnose?
When an evaluation of autism is performed, several tests are generally used: the ADOS-2 would be the most indicated to observe the patient's current situation. Other tests are usually taken to contribute to the differential diagnosis, namely tests of intellectual level, language level and level of adaptive skills. You will be able to take the ADOS-2 as soon as you get certified on it but if you want to perform the complete autism evaluation, you will probably also have to be trained in other evaluations such as those mentioned above.
Does the ADOS-2 have an age limit?
No, the ADOS-2 does not have an age limit as it has been designed to be administered on an age range from 12 months of age to adulthood. This flexibility allows the ADOS-2 to be used effectively in assessing autism spectrum disorder across various developmental stages and age groups.
Can the ADOS-2 assess adults?
Yes, the ADOS-2 can assess adults. It offers different modules that are selected based on the individual's expressive language level as the primary criterion and their chronological age as the secondary criterion. The selection of the appropriate module ensures that the assessment is tailored to the individual's developmental and linguistic abilities, thereby providing a more accurate evaluation.
Who can the ADOS-2 be administered to?
The ADOS-2 can be administered on individuals from 12 months of age to adulthood. However, it requires a developmental level of at least 12 months and no significant sensory or motor impairments such as blindness, deafness or reduced mobility (for example, use of a wheelchair).
Can the ADOS-2 be administered virtually?
No, the ADOS-2 is not validated to be administered virtually, as it requires direct interaction between the examiner and the individual being assessed.
How long does it take to administer an ADOS-2?
The ADOS-2 requires around 40 - 60 minutes to be administered.
Where can I get the ADOS-2 materials?
You can acquire the ADOS-2 manual, protocols and kit of materials through Western Psychological Services at 1-800-648-8857 or at WPS Publish
What does the ADOS-2 kit include?
The ADOS-2 kit includes an ADOS-2 manual, 50 protocols (10 for each of the five modules) and all the toys, books and paper sheets necessary to administer the test.
Where can I get certified to administer the ADOS-2 instrument?
Here are the four best places to get trained in the use of ADOS-2:
Excellent quality trainers, including some of the authors of the ADOS-2 instrument.
Fully online trainings throughout the year.
The best place to get certified on the West Coast.
In-person trainings.
The university provides the best training program in the Midwest
In-person trainings.
The best option to get trained on the East Coast.
In person trainings.