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Consider completing the BRAIN-online screening. BRAIN-online is a new web-based screening tool that assesses cognitive and behavioral features known to be associated with fetal alcohol spectrum disorders (FASD). It was developed by Dr. Sarah Mattson and her team at the San Diego State University Center for Behavioral Teratology as a first step to determine if you or someone you care for might have an FASD. Developmental and behavioral health screenings are important because they can help with early identification of FASD, allowing for the best treatment options and outcomes.
If you are 18 years of age or older and are interested in taking the BRAIN–online assessment, or if you want to have your child between the ages of 5 and 17 complete the test, click the link. You will use your own computer, and the screening evaluation takes less than an hour to complete. Once you complete the test, you will be given the opportunity to receive feedback on your results from Dr. Mattson and her team and support from FASD United.
When you launch BRAIN-online, you will be redirected away from texasfasdnetwork.org to a Center for Behavioral Teratology webpage where you can review additional information before you begin the assessment and decide if taking the test is right for you. If you have questions before taking the test, please contact the BRAIN-online team at CBT@sdsu.edu. Please only take the test once.
The BRAIN-online assessment will not confirm if you or your child has or does not have an FASD. It can inform you if you or a family member has cognitive and behavioral features known to be associated with FASD. Your anonymous results will also help Dr. Mattson’s work to validate a universal screening tool that accurately identifies the cognitive and behavioral features of FASD.
Our family guide provides an overview of what FASD is, the professionals involved, and next steps to take as an individual, parent, or caregiver.
Have an honest conversation with your doctor about your daily struggles and ask about FASD. Bring your screener results (see step 1) and the overlapping characteristics chart to guide your discussion.
Ask your doctor about an FASD evaluation and referral to FASD-trained provider. Locate a diagnostic provider or therapist in your area by using the Provider Directory.
Connect with one of our family peer mentors or find a support group. Community is crucial and we are here for you.
Provider Directory
Get the Family Guide
Support Groups
How We Help
You’re in the right place if you’re concerned about prenatal alcohol exposure or FASD. When you or your child struggles, it can be frightening, overwhelming, isolating, and exhausting. You do not have to face this alone. Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders (FASD) affects 1 in 20 in the United States.
FASD is a spectrum of presentations. There is no one blood test or examination that can confirm prenatal alcohol exposure. Instead, diagnosis usually comes from a sum of physical, mental, behavioral, and emotional testing. That is why it takes a multidisciplinary approach to support individuals with FASD. But at the heart of care is you. Trust in yourself. You are strong and capable and your voice matters.
Texas FASD Network providers family support for FASD in the following ways:
- Peer-to-peer support
- Directory of FASD-informed providers and therapists
- National and state advocacy for changing systems of care
- Improving education and awareness among clinicians, educators, lawmakers, and families
We do not offer direct medical advice, but we can connect you with those who can. We know this journey isn’t easy. We are committed to providing family support as you navigate the systems of care. It is a privilege to be a part of your community.