What Is Autism Spectrum Disorder?

Autism is a neurodevelopmental disability that can cause challenges in several areas of life, including social, behavioral, and communication. It can cause issues at work, relationships with coworkers and supervisors. It can even cause challenges between spouses or friends. People with a diagnosis of Autism often feel differently than others. This isn’t meant to be a “bad thing”, but rather a different way of exploring and understanding reactions to stressors. Societal norms dictate adults live “normally”, but individuals diagnosed with Autism prefer to move at their own pace and flow, even if that means they’re running against the grain. It’s not necessarily out of stubbornness, but more so an instinct to be true to their personal needs.

Does Autism Look Different in Women Than Men?

Yes!  Autism typically presents differently in women than men and is often why an Autism diagnosis is overlooked in girls in childhood. Girls and women tend to have a desire to be more sociable than boys. They work hard to fit in, which leads to them “masking” or covering up their autistic traits. Masking can lead to exhaustion or “autistic burn out.” Imagine, having to act differently that what feels comfortable or natural day after day. Putting on an act in a school or work setting can lead to emotionally exhausting evenings and weekends. 

Will A Diagnosis Change Everything?

For many of those with a diagnosis of Autism, their diagnosis was received as a child. This likely gave them structure, guidance, and support throughout their life. However, those who go undiagnosed until adulthood often feel a rush of emotions when they learn about their diagnosis and most often feel validated. What does this diagnosis mean? Is this why I respond a certain way? Is this why I prefer to work a certain way? Why haven’t I noticed the symptoms before?

Where do I go from here? All of these questions are valid and deserve to be answered, but the journey of exploring and understanding a diagnosis is ultimately up to the individual.

Why Should I Get Tested?

Getting tested for Autism as an adult should never evoke fear or anxiety. I use a variety of techniques when assessing adult Autism. This includes an in-depth interview in hopes to develop a strong one-on-one connection ensuring that your experiences are heard and valued. I also use several questionnaires that help, not only to diagnose Autism but to rule out any other mental health disorder that you might be experiencing. I gather information from a caregiver or loved one to learn about how other’s view your experiences. Moreover, I consider factors such as your emotional and mental health, recognizing that being diagnosed later in life can come with more information and experiences to share. By integrating all these elements, I provide an accurate diagnosis and develop a personalized action plan for you. It is important to remember that an autism diagnosis is not something to fear but rather a way to provide validation and answers to what you’ve been experiencing since childhood.

What States Does Dr. Fischer Provide Adult ASD Evaluations In?

She is currently licensed to provide telehealth in the following states: Alabama, Arizona, Arkansas, Colorado, Connecticut, Commonwealth of the Mariana Islands, Delaware, District of Columbia, Florida, Georgia, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Kanas, Kentucky, Maine, Maryland, Minnesota, Mississippi, Missouri, Nebraska, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Jersey, North Carolina, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Virginia, Washington, West Virginia, Wisconsin, or Wyoming.

What Can I Expect During an Adult Autism Evaluation?

All Adult Autism evaluation appointments are conducted via telehealth. It is recommended that the appointments are taken at home or in a private location as there are several personal questions that will be discussed.

During the evaluation, there will be a questionnaire that you complete online. Dr. Fischer will send you an email with a link to the questionnaire during the appointment. It is easiest to answer these on a laptop or desktop computer. You will complete the questionnaire while we are on the Telehealth visit and review once you are finished.

Can I Do the Evaluation Via Telehealth?

Yes, all Adult Autism evaluation appointments are conducted via Telehealth.

How Long Does an Adult Autism Evaluation Take?

Typically, the first appointment (the “evaluation”) is about two hours in length. The follow up visit, which is a time to review the written report, results, and recommendations based on the potential diagnoses are typically between 45 and 50 minutes. The follow up appointment is scheduled between two to three weeks after the first visit.

Will I Receive a Copy of the Evaluation?

Yes, after the evaluation, Dr. Fischer will send you a copy of the report via the portal that includes background information, results of all questionnaires, the diagnoses, and recommendations based on the diagnoses.

Does Dr. Fischer Write Letters for Accommodations at School or Work?

Yes, after the evaluation, Dr. Fischer will complete paperwork for school or work-related accommodations, based on the diagnoses and the needs of the individual.