How Do I Know If I Am Autistic?
How Do I Know If I Am Autistic?
Maybe you stumbled upon a YouTube video or read an article, or perhaps your child's recent diagnosis sparked thoughts about your own experiences. Suspecting you might be Autistic raises the question: what's next?
It’s not unusual for adults, particularly females, to pursue a diagnosis of Autism later in life. This challenges the idea that Autism mostly affects males. In the past few years, there is increased awareness about how Autism presents in females or those socialized as females. Unfortunately, evaluations often misdiagnose females, assigning alternative labels such as Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD), Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD), or Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD).
Autism Evaluations for Adults
You can choose between a neuropsychological evaluation or self-identification. Self-identification in the Autism community is widely accepted; joining Autistic spaces, both social and online, is possible without a formal diagnosis. However, obtaining a formal diagnosis becomes necessary for accessing resources or accommodations in workplaces or schools. Additionally, if you were previously misdiagnosed, getting an accurate diagnosis can inform your treatment in therapy.
For some, receiving the diagnosis brings relief, offering an explanation for feeling out of place for so long. Understanding that your brain works differently can allow you to gain a new perspective on your lived, and often difficult, experiences.
What Does an Evaluation for Autistic Adults Look Like?
An Autism evaluation involves a psychological or neuropsychological assessment. Clinicians assess adults through a series of interviews and rating scales. Observations and family interviews are less frequent in evaluations for Autistic adults compared to assessments for children. Prepare for an evaluation by compiling a list of your experiences during youth; challenges in communication, sensory, or emotional regulation; and brain strengths and accomplishments.
While some clinicians accept insurance for evaluations, others do not. Costs typically range from a few hundred to several thousand dollars. If you are female, assigned female at birth (AFAB), or engage in high-masking behaviors, when selecting a clinician, inquire about their expertise in assessing these specific populations. Only a qualified psychiatrist or psychologist can provide an official diagnosis; clinical social workers or counselors can offer therapy but cannot conduct evaluations.
What Does Therapy Look Like for Autistic Adults?
Therapy doesn't aim to "treat" or “fix” Autism, but instead focuses on addressing challenges associated with it, such as validating trauma, building self-advocacy skills, navigating workplace challenges, and treating co-occurring mental health issues. A competent therapist should understand the unique ways Autistic brains function, recognizing the diversity within the Autistic community. The goal is to enhance overall well-being, not to change Autistic behaviors.
Given the prevalence of myths about Autism, it's crucial to collaborate with a neurodiversity-affirming provider.
While I cannot conduct neuropsychological evaluations, I can provide recommendations for neurodiversity-affirming clinicians in Chicago and beyond. Feel free to reach out if you have any questions or if you'd like to delve deeper into understanding and exploring your incredible Autistic brain through therapy!
Here are some additional resources and recommended self-assessment screening tools:
Online Therapy Services Offered at Empathic Counseling Services in Evanston, Chicago, and Beyond
Get to know Ivy Ellis, LCSW PMH-C, a licensed mental health therapist dedicated to helping overthinkers and overwhelmed adults. Ivy’s niche specialties include supporting Autistic/ND adults, anxious adults, and pregnant and postpartum women. Ivy, at Empathic Counseling Center in Evanston, Chicago, and beyond, offers online therapy for adults in Illinois, Minnesota, Washington, Indiana, and Michigan.