Understanding Neurodevelopmental Disorders and the DSM-V
The term NeuroDevelopmental Disorders is used to describe a class of disorders. This class of disorders has in common the following characteristics: impairments in social interaction, imaginative activity, verbal and nonverbal communication skills, and a limited number of interests and activities that tend to be repetitive.
The manual used by physicians and mental health professionals as a guide to diagnosing disorders is the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM). The DSM is updated and changed every few years. The most current version which was updated in 2013 is DSM-V.
Pervasive Developmental Disorders Identified in the DSM-V
In this latest revision, known as the DSM-V, five disorders are identified under the category of Pervasive Developmental Disorders:
Clarifying the Use of the Term PDD vs. PDDNOS
Doctors are divided on the use of the term PDD. Many professionals use the term PDD as a short way of saying PDDNOS.
Some doctors, however, are hesitant to diagnose very young children with a specific type of PDD, such as Autistic Disorder, and therefore, only use the general category label of PDD. This approach contributes to the confusion about the term because the term PDD actually refers to a category of disorders and is not a diagnostic label. The appropriate diagnostic label to be used is PDDNOS–Pervasive Developmental Disorder Not Otherwise Specified–not PDD (the umbrella category under which PDDNOS is found).
Frequently Asked Questions
- Autism
- Autism Insurance
- Diagnosis and Assessment - Autism
- Equipment and Technology - Autism
- Neurofeedback and Brain Training - Autism
- Passive Near-Infrared Light Therapy (PnIR) - Autism
- qpTMS™ Treatment - Autism
- Treatment Planning and Outcomes - Autism
Many individuals present with overlapping symptoms. Our team provides comprehensive evaluations, including qEEG brain mapping, to help clarify diagnoses and recommend the most effective path forward based on your unique profile.
We combine advanced diagnostic tools like qEEG brain mapping with customized therapies such as qpTMS™, neurofeedback, and PnIR. This integrated approach addresses the unique neurological patterns found in autism to promote improved communication, emotional regulation, and cognitive function.
MDD is a clinical diagnosis involving persistent sadness, lack of interest, fatigue, and more. Insurance often requires a PHQ-9 score of 20+ to qualify for TMS. Screening is available at Brain Wellness Center.
No. TMS is only covered for MDD. Autism-related TMS must be self-paid.
Unfortunately, most County Health Plans do not cover autism treatments such as TMS, Neurofeedback, qEEG Brain Mapping, tDCS, or Auditory Training. These plans may cover treatment of major depression in adults who have tried antidepressants without a successful outcome or could not tolerate them due to side effects. County Health Plans provide coverage for TMS treating patients suffering with major depression who have failed one or more antidepressants. Brain Wellness Center is in-network with select County Health Plans.
Generally no. Some plans allow coverage for individuals 15+, but most require patients to be 18+.
Unfortunately, Evernorth does not cover autism treatments such as TMS, Neurofeedback, qEEG Brain Mapping, tDCS, or Auditory Training. Evernorth does cover treatment of major depression in adults who have tried antidepressants without a successful outcome or could not tolerate them due to side effects. Evernorth provides coverage for TMS treating patients suffering with major depression who have failed one or more antidepressants. Brain Wellness Center is an in-network provider to Evernorth.
Unfortunately, Carelon does not cover autism treatments such as TMS, Neurofeedback, qEEG Brain Mapping, tDCS, or Auditory Training. Carelon does cover treatment of major depression in adults who have tried antidepressants without a successful outcome or could not tolerate them due to side effects. Carelon provides coverage for TMS treating patients suffering with major depression who have failed one or more antidepressants. Brain Wellness Center is an in-network provider to Carelon.
Unfortunately, Medi-Cal does not cover autism treatments such as TMS, Neurofeedback, qEEG Brain Mapping, tDCS, or Auditory Training. Medi-Cal does cover treatment of major depression in adults who have tried antidepressants without a successful outcome or could not tolerate them due to side effects. Medi-Cal provides coverage for TMS treating patients suffering with major depression who have failed one or more antidepressants. Brain Wellness Center is an in-network provider to Medi-Cal.
Unfortunately, Covered California plans do not cover autism treatments such as TMS, Neurofeedback, qEEG Brain Mapping, tDCS, or Auditory Training. These plans typically cover treatment of major depression in adults who have tried antidepressants without a successful outcome or could not tolerate them due to side effects. Covered California provides access to plans offering TMS coverage for patients suffering with major depression who have failed one or more antidepressants. Brain Wellness Center participates in several Covered California networks.
Unfortunately, Health Net does not cover autism treatments such as TMS, Neurofeedback, qEEG Brain Mapping, tDCS, or Auditory Training. Health Net does cover treatment of major depression in adults who have tried antidepressants without a successful outcome or could not tolerate them due to side effects. Health Net provides coverage for TMS treating patients suffering with major depression who have failed one or more antidepressants. Brain Wellness Center is an in-network provider to Health Net.
Unfortunately, Beacon Health Options does not cover autism treatments such as TMS, Neurofeedback, qEEG Brain Mapping, tDCS, or Auditory Training. Beacon does cover treatment of major depression in adults who have tried antidepressants without a successful outcome or could not tolerate them due to side effects. Beacon Health Options provides coverage for TMS treating patients suffering with major depression who have failed one or more antidepressants. Brain Wellness Center is an in-network provider to Beacon Health Options.
Unfortunately, Quantum does not cover autism treatments such as TMS, Neurofeedback, qEEG Brain Mapping, tDCS, or Auditory Training. Quantum does cover treatment of major depression in adults who have tried antidepressants without a successful outcome or could not tolerate them due to side effects. Quantum provides coverage for TMS treating patients suffering with major depression who have failed one or more antidepressants. Brain Wellness Center is an in-network provider to Quantum.
Unfortunately, MHN does not cover autism treatments such as TMS, Neurofeedback, qEEG Brain Mapping, tDCS, or Auditory Training. MHN does cover treatment of major depression in adults who have tried antidepressants without a successful outcome or could not tolerate them due to side effects. MHN provides coverage for TMS treating patients suffering with major depression who have failed one or more antidepressants. Brain Wellness Center is an in-network provider to MHN.
Unfortunately, TriWest does not cover autism treatments such as TMS, Neurofeedback, qEEG Brain Mapping, tDCS, or Auditory Training. TriWest does cover treatment of major depression in adults who have tried antidepressants without a successful outcome or could not tolerate them due to side effects. TriWest provides coverage for TMS treating patients suffering with major depression who have failed one or more antidepressants. Brain Wellness Center is an in-network provider to TriWest.
Unfortunately, TriCare does not cover autism treatments such as TMS, Neurofeedback, qEEG Brain Mapping, tDCS, or Auditory Training. TriCare does cover treatment of major depression in adults who have tried antidepressants without a successful outcome or could not tolerate them due to side effects. TriCare provides coverage for TMS treating patients suffering with major depression who have failed one or more antidepressants. Brain Wellness Center is an in-network provider to TriCare.
Unfortunately, Magellan does not cover autism treatments such as TMS, Neurofeedback, qEEG Brain Mapping, tDCS, or Auditory Training. Magellan does cover treatment of major depression in adults who have tried antidepressants without a successful outcome or could not tolerate them due to side effects. Magellan provides coverage for TMS treating patients suffering with major depression who have failed one or more antidepressants. Brain Wellness Center is an in-network provider to Magellan.
Unfortunately, Medicare does not cover autism treatments such as TMS, Neurofeedback, qEEG Brain Mapping, tDCS, or Auditory Training. Medicare does cover treatment of major depression in adults who have tried antidepressants without a successful outcome or could not tolerate them due to side effects. Medicare provides coverage for TMS treating patients suffering with major depression who have failed one or more antidepressants. Brain Wellness Center is an in-network provider to Medicare.
Unfortunately, Value Options does not cover autism treatments such as TMS, Neurofeedback, qEEG Brain Mapping, tDCS, or Auditory Training. Value Options does cover treatment of major depression in adults who have tried antidepressants without a successful outcome or could not tolerate them due to side effects. Value Options provides coverage for TMS treating patients suffering with major depression who have failed one or more antidepressants. Brain Wellness Center is an in-network provider to Value Options.
Unfortunately, Blue Cross does not cover autism treatments such as TMS, Neurofeedback, qEEG Brain Mapping, tDCS, or Auditory Training. Blue Cross does cover treatment of major depression in adults who have tried antidepressants without a successful outcome or could not tolerate them due to side effects. Blue Cross provides coverage for TMS treating patients suffering with major depression who have failed one or more antidepressants. Brain Wellness Center is an in-network provider to Blue Cross.
Unfortunately, Anthem does not cover autism treatments such as TMS, Neurofeedback, qEEG Brain Mapping, tDCS, or Auditory Training. Anthem does cover treatment of major depression in adults who have tried antidepressants without a successful outcome or could not tolerate them due to side effects. Anthem provides coverage for TMS treating patients suffering with major depression who have failed one or more antidepressants. Brain Wellness Center is an in-network provider to Anthem.
Unfortunately, Cigna does not cover autism treatments such as TMS, Neurofeedback, qEEG Brain Mapping, tDCS, or Auditory Training. Cigna does cover treatment of major depression in adults who have tried antidepressants without a successful outcome or could not tolerate them due to side effects. Cigna provides coverage for TMS treating patients suffering with major depression who have failed one or more antidepressants. Brain Wellness Center is an in-network provider to Cigna.
Unfortunately, Aetna does not cover autism treatments such as TMS, Neurofeedback, qEEG Brain Mapping, tDCS, or Auditory Training. Aetna does cover treatment of major depression in adults who have tried antidepressants without a successful outcome or could not tolerate them due to side effects. Aetna provides coverage for TMS treating patients suffering with major depression who have failed one or more antidepressants. Brain Wellness Center is an in-network provider to Aetna.
Unfortunately, Blue Shield does not cover autism treatments such as TMS, Neurofeedback, qEEG Brain Mapping, tDCS, or Auditory Training. Blue Shield does cover treatment of major depression in adults who have tried antidepressants without a successful outcome or could not tolerate them due to side effects. Blue Shield provides coverage for TMS treating patients suffering with major depression who have failed one or more antidepressants. Brain Wellness Center is an in-network provider to Blue Shield.
Yes. We work with several California county health programs.
Yes, we accept many Covered California plans.
Yes. Brain Wellness Center is in-network with most major commercial insurers in California. TMS for autism is not typically covered unless there’s a co-occurring condition like depression.
No. MeRT is a branded system with limited EEG use. The center uses more advanced customization.
MeRT is a brand using basic EEG data. qpTMS™ offers more precision via proprietary qEEG protocols.
Not by that name. qpTMS™ goes beyond typical pTMS personalization.
pTMS is loosely defined; qpTMS™ uses qEEG data for advanced, individualized targeting.
Yes. All TMS treatments at the center use rTMS (repetitive magnetic pulses).
TMS is the general technique; rTMS is the FDA-approved repetitive version.
Yes, when clinically appropriate. It’s a faster TMS protocol.
Available, but not commonly used as it requires MRI-based targeting. qEEG is preferred.
Yes, as a backup platform, but it’s rarely used in autism care.
Dr. Hashemian trained on Magstim in 2003. While it’s no longer in use, the team is familiar with the technology.
Yes. BrainsWay’s H-coil reaches deeper brain areas, but newer protocols are now preferred.
Yes. It’s the primary device for autism treatment due to its precision and flexibility.
MagVenture, an FDA-cleared system used by top institutions like Stanford and Harvard.
Yes, but it’s rarely used now due to more advanced and targeted technologies.
Used early on (2008–2013), but now replaced with more advanced systems.
No. The center performs its own eligibility assessments.
A cautious, evidence-based strategy tailored for long-term outcomes.
Most insurers only cover TMS for Major Depressive Disorder, not autism.
Yes. The center offers free consultations to check insurance eligibility.
No. Brain Wellness Center handles all insurance communications.
Usually 2–5 business days after paperwork submission.
36 sessions total — one per day, five days a week, over ~7.5 weeks.
Typically under 20 minutes.
Yes. Most patients resume normal activity immediately.
No. TMS is non-invasive and requires no downtime.
Yes, but only one per day is covered by insurance. Additional sessions are self-pay.
Yes. Many patients combine both to speed up progress.
Yes. Research supports the safety of multiple daily sessions.
Possibly. It depends on the individual’s progress and stress levels.
Many individuals see long-term benefits, supported by lifestyle management.
Brain Wellness Center offers up to five sessions/day. Insurance typically covers only one/day.
Yes. Up to five sessions/day are available; extra sessions are billed separately.
Yes. All major credit cards are accepted.
Yes. Payments via Health Savings Accounts and Flexible Spending Accounts are accepted.
No. Standard courses last 6–8 weeks. Occasional maintenance may help some individuals.
Costs vary. Contact Brain Wellness Center for current rates and payment options.
No. Medications are usually maintained during TMS treatment.
Improved focus, reduced anxiety, enhanced social engagement, and emotional regulation.
Many patients see sustained improvement with regular care and booster sessions.
Yes. The center specializes in non-pharmacological approaches and treats patients with or without medication.
No. The goal is to manage challenges effectively and improve quality of life.
Through qEEG brain mapping, customized plans may include qpTMS™, neurofeedback, PnIR, and lifestyle support.
Most see improvements within 20–30 sessions, including better focus, sleep, and behavior regulation.
It improves attention, reduces sensory overload, and supports emotional regulation by targeting specific neurological patterns.
Yes. It has no known long-term side effects and is considered very safe.
Yes. Home-based programs are available with remote supervision.
A non-invasive technique providing real-time feedback on brainwaves to help individuals self-regulate brain activity.
Yes. Home-use devices are available under clinical supervision.
Sessions last 20–30 minutes, scheduled 3–5 times per week.
PnIR uses 810nm near-infrared light to reduce inflammation and support brain health.
It promotes cognitive function, calmness, and reduces neuroinflammation.
Yes. It is FDA-cleared, painless, and non-invasive.
Yes. It helps with sensory overload, emotional dysregulation, attention issues, and social anxiety.
Most insurance plans do not cover it.
Yes. It is often combined with qEEG mapping, neurofeedback, and PnIR for comprehensive care.
30–40 sessions over 6–8 weeks. Duration may vary based on the individual.
Some improvements may appear in 2–3 weeks; progress is monitored and adjusted.
Yes. It has a strong safety profile, with headaches as the most common side effect (5%).
It customizes coil placement, frequency, intensity, and timing based on individual brainwave patterns.
No. MeRT uses standard TMS with limited EEG data; qpTMS™ uses more advanced and individualized targeting.
The equipment is FDA-cleared. The personalization aspect is off-label but follows safety guidelines.
It’s a data-driven form of TMS using qEEG mapping for personalized treatment; exclusively offered at Brain Wellness Center.
qEEG measures brain wave patterns to identify neural dysregulation associated with ASD and helps understand unique brain activity patterns.
Yes. It can identify distinct neurological signatures that differentiate ASD from conditions like ADHD or anxiety.
Yes. It provides insight into cognitive strengths, executive function, and learning styles for personalized planning.
They emphasize early screening and comprehensive evaluations to allow timely intervention.
Diagnosis involves a thorough developmental history, behavior observation, and standardized tools administered by experienced professionals, often in collaboration with other specialists.
Yes, ASD is a lifelong neurological condition, but its impact can be significantly mitigated with early diagnosis and appropriate interventions. At Brain Wellness Center, our goal is to help individuals on the spectrum achieve greater independence and improved quality of life.
Many individuals with ASD can live independently or with some support, depending on the severity of their symptoms and the interventions they receive. Brain Wellness Center aims to empower individuals to live fulfilling lives.
According to the CDC, approximately 1 in 36 children in the U.S. have been identified with ASD. Brain Wellness Center is dedicated to supporting the growing number of individuals and families impacted by ASD.
Sensory sensitivities involve unusual responses to sensory input, such as over- or under-reactivity to sounds, lights, textures, tastes, or smells. Brain Wellness Center helps individuals develop strategies to manage these sensitivities.
While there can be some overlapping behaviors, ASD involves fundamental differences in social communication and interaction, often accompanied by restricted interests and repetitive behaviors, which differ from typical anxiety or shyness. If you’re concerned about social difficulties, consult with Brain Wellness Center.
ASD is believed to result from a complex interplay of genetic and environmental factors that influence brain development. Brain Wellness Center takes a comprehensive approach to understanding the unique factors contributing to each individual’s presentation of ASD.
Early signs can include delayed language development, limited eye contact, lack of response to name, repetitive behaviors (e.g., hand flapping), and difficulty with social reciprocity. If you notice these signs, contact Brain Wellness Center for a consultation.
In adults, ASD symptoms may manifest as challenges with social nuances, difficulty understanding non-literal language, strong adherence to routines, intense focus on specific interests, and sensory sensitivities. Brain Wellness Center provides specialized support for adults with ASD.
Challenges often include difficulties with social communication, forming and maintaining relationships, sensory processing differences, anxiety, and adapting to change. Brain Wellness Center offers effective strategies to address these challenges.
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental condition characterized by challenges in social interaction and communication, and by restricted or repetitive patterns of behavior, interests, or activities. At Brain Wellness Center, we offer specialized care to help individuals on the autism spectrum thrive.