Adult Autism Assessment
Now offering comprehensive, neurodivergence-affirming, and affordable adult autism assessment and diagnosis in Texas.
Considering getting tested for autism?
- You might notice that you respond differently to sounds, lights, foods, smells, etc than other folks
- Maybe you struggle with starting or maintaining friendships or other type of relationships
- Sometimes you have big emotional reactions that catch you off guard, or maybe even meltdowns that involve going quiet or yelling.
- You may have other folks in your biological family who are neurodivergent
- You are looking for a private and secure environment for assessment that does not include formal documentation.
Formal vs Informal Diagnosis
Informal diagnosis involves a private process- meaning no diagnosis or testing interpretations are saved or documented in your health file with me. This may be ideal for folks concerned with privacy of health information, interested only in personal growth and development, or who want to save a bit of money. Your autism interview session is slightly shorter, and the report you receive is significantly less detailed.
Formal diagnosis involves written documentation of autism that is attached to your health file with me. This may be best for folks comfortable with having a full and detailed interpretation of their experiences in report-form, wanting written support for academic or work-related accommodations*, or who may need the documentation for other personal reasons. Your autism interview is longer, and the report you receive is longer and more detailed.
*There is no guarantee accommodations will be granted based on this report. Schools and businesses have the sole deciding power in these situations. My report only addresses the presence of autism, and supports I think will be helpful. If you are seeking assessment for this reason, please be clear about what documentation is required and what kinds of accommodations are typically given.
*This autism report CANNOT be used to file for any kind of formal disability or for Social Security Disability Income (SSDI) due to restrictions by law. Only certain providers can assess and file documentation for disability. To learn more about requirements in Texas, click here.
Autism Assessment FAQ
Who is a good candidate for adult Autism assessment?
You might be a good candidate if you are an adult (over 18 years old) who has struggled with daily functioning, anxiety, depression, relationships, work/school, or unexplained physical ailments throughout your adult life, but don’t feel like your current diagnosis is quite right. Read more about adult autism characteristics here.
My autism assessments are not appropriate for folks with brain injuries, intellectual disabilities, or other neurological impairments. My reports are also not sufficient for applying for disability due to Texas law. My formal autism assessment process and report may be helpful in supporting requests for accommodations at work or school
What is the process to adult Autism assessment?
– The process is super transparent and simple. We get started with a free consultation though. If you want to know more about the overall process, click here.
What is the benefit or receiving an autism diagnosis as an adult?
– An adult autism diagnosis can be helpful for several reasons. It may be an affirming way for YOU to start seeing yourself through a new lens and cultivating more compassion for a life that may be difficult for you. Many people find a diagnosis to be a missing piece of the puzzle and helps them pursue more specialized support or help like therapy or coaching.
What if I do the assessment and don’t meet the DSM criteria?
We will spend time in our wrap up session exploring what else might be going on for you, and being very clear about why you didn’t meet the criteria. Regardless of diagnosis you will still walk away with new information, as well as resources and referrals that will guide your next steps and future care.
Is the testing for adult Autism in-person or online?
– To increase accessibility, I am offering fully online assessment. However, if you are in the Austin area, you may be able to attend some of the sessions in person if requested. I offer in-person options on Monday and Tuesday afternoons.
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