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.

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. 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.

Learn More About Yourself Today

If you are an adult looking for answers to questions you have had all your life, please reach out to me to learn more about Autism assessments. A diagnosis may be what you need to take the next step of being true to who you are.