Autism Evaluations for Adults
Respectful, affirming, confidential assessments for the clinical diagnosis of autism in adults.
Many will have been in therapy or other treatment, but continue to struggle with lingering effects of depression, anxiety, burnout or relationship challenges. Maybe they have questioned the possibility of being autistic, but were met with statements like…
“You’re too social and outgoing to be autistic”
“You’re just anxious.”
“You’re too emotionally attuned to be autistic.”
“You look me in the eye, you can’t be autistic.”
“Aren’t we all on the spectrum a little bit?”
For many years, autism was identified by what could be clearly observed by others. Unfortunately, this led to an enormous gap in our understanding of the autistic experience and has contributed to decades of misdiagnosis for high-masking individuals.
When a neuro-affirming assessment reveals or confirms their autistic brain style, everything begins to shift. With a clearer and more complete understanding of how they process and experience relationships, communication, emotions and sensory information, a new door is opened for connection, acceptance and support.
By the time adults seek out an autism assessment, they have likely already received one or more mental health diagnoses.
The Assessment Process
You can expect an assessment process that is collaborative and affirming. We will focus on understanding your internal experience with communication, relationships, and sensory preferences. This will also include a thorough review of your history (developmental, social, family, academic, medical, etc). Through this dialogue, we will explore if the patterns throughout your life align with the autistic brain profile.
During your final appointment, we will process what we have learned. You will also receive a written report that summarizes the evaluation process and findings, as well as recommendations for next steps.
Commonly Asked Questions
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How long will it take?
Because every story is unique and each person will process at a different pace, some assessments may need more time than others.
Typically, the assessment interview will occur over the course of 4-5 hours, split between two or three appointments.
Each evaluation consists of three parts:
Assessment/Interview Process (4-5 hours)
Follow-up hours for reviewing and scoring information, as well as writing a summary report (3-4 hours).
Final session to review the report, process your experience and explore recommendations for next steps (1 hour).
What is the cost?
The total cost is $1000.
A deposit of $250 is due when scheduling your evaluation. The remainder is due prior to the first appointment.
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Autism Assessments are completed with Cara Joyner, LPC, ASDCS.
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For adults seeking an assessment for the purpose of identification, clarity and information to inform & support their therapeutic work, a full neuropsychological evaluation is not necessary in order to assess and diagnose autism.
However, there are situations where this would be the most appropriate route.
For those seeking documentation to be used when applying for disability services, they will likely need an evaluation covering a wider scope than simply assessing for autism.
If you plan to use your report to request accommodations at school or work, it is advised that you first speak with the organization to determine their requirements for testing.
If there are additional concerns related to cognition, memory or undiagnosed learning disabilities, a psychoeducational or neuropsych evaluation would be advised.
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As a part of your intake paperwork, you will receive the Social Responsiveness Scale (SRS-2), the Camouflaging Autistic Traits Questionnaire (CAT-Q), and The Ritvo Autism Asperger Diagnostic Scale-Revised (RAADS-R).
During the assessment process, we will use the MIGDAS-2 to support a more nuanced exploration of the patterns across your sensory, communication and relational experiences.
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Yes! If you choose to involve a partner, family member or close friend, their perspective can be a valuable piece of the evaluation.
You will have the option to have one assessment tool sent directly to them, so that they can share their observations. If you would like to invite them into the interview process, they are welcome to attend.
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For anyone living in the state of Virginia, assessments are available online, through a confidential telehealth portal.
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This evaluation will not include an ADHD assessment. If your reports indicates the likelihood of ADHD, you will receive referrals for physicians or other clinicians who test and diagnose ADHD.
Schedule A Free Consultation Call
If you are interested in scheduling an evaluation or if you have questions about the process, let’s set up a time to talk.
