UCLA Autism Genetics Clinic

The UCLA Autism Genetics Clinic offers genetic evaluation and clinical management for individuals with a diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder (and other related neurodevelopmental diagnoses). We accept pediatric and adult patients. The Autism Genetics Clinic is offered on the 3^rd and 4^th Wednesdays of every month at 200 UCLA Medical Plaza, Suite 265, Los Angeles, CA 90095.

What can I expect at my visit?

The UCLA Autism Genetics Clinic is comprised of a geneticist and genetic counselor. New patient evaluations will include a complete health history, physical exam, genetic counseling and genetic testing if indicated. It is important the patient be present at the visit, as the physical exam is an integral part of the evaluation.

We do not evaluate for or diagnose patients with autism spectrum disorder. Patients must already carry this diagnosis to be seen at the UCLA Autism Genetics Clinic. 

If you are seeking a neurodevelopmental specialist to perform a comprehensive evaluation for an autism diagnosis please reach out to the the Child and Adult Neurodevelopmental (CAN) Clinic(Link is external) (Link opens in new window). This clinic provides diagnostic assessments and evidence-based treatment for children, adolescents, and adults with neurodevelopmental conditions and social development impairments related to autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and developmental delays. You can reach them at CANClinic@mednet.ucla.edu . 

What is autism spectrum disorder?

Autism spectrum disorder refers to a developmental disorder that encompasses a broad range, or spectrum, of symptoms that affect communication and behavior. Symptoms include challenges with social skills, restricted and repetitive behaviors, and sensory issues. Autism spectrum disorder can be reliably diagnosed as early as age 2 by a developmental specialist.

What causes autism spectrum disorder?

There is no one cause of autism spectrum disorder. Research shows that autism develops from a combination of genetic and non-genetic influences. These influences increase the risk that an individual will develop autism. For about 30-40% of individuals with autism, a strong genetic influence or cause may be identified by genetic testing.

How can genetics services help an individual with autism spectrum disorder?

About 30-40% of individuals with autism spectrum disorder have an identifiable genetic cause. There may be benefits to identifying a genetic cause, such as learning more about prognosis, medical management and/or treatment, and inheritance patterns and associated recurrence risk.

What if I suspect myself or my child has autism spectrum disorder?

There are developmental specialists who can evaluate for and diagnose autism spectrum disorder. Your primary care provider can make a referral to a developmental specialist. UCLA has a Developmental Behavioral Pediatrics Practice with providers who can evaluate for autism. Many also are assessed through the California Regional Centers(Link is external).

Our Team
Julian Martinez, MD, PhD – Pediatric Genetics
Ahna Neustadt, ScM, CGC – Genetic Counselor
Amanda Butler, LCSW – Social Worker
Elizabeth Gonzalez – Program Administrator

Contact Us:
UCLA Department of Pediatrics, Division of Genetics
200 UCLA Medical Plaza, Suite 265
Los Angeles, CA 90095
(310) 206-6581 (Link opens phone app)Tel
(310) 206-8616 Fax
For an appointment, please call: UCLA Pediatric Genetics (310) 206-6581(Link opens phone app)

Resources
Autism Speaks(Link is external)
Family Resource Centers Network of California(Link is external)
KidsConnect(Link is external)
PEERS(Link is external)