Adult Evaluation for Autism Spectrum Disorder
This evaluation is for Autism Spectrum Disorder symptoms, but is focused on adults who have not been previously diagnosed. This usually means that symptoms have been masked or compensated for in earlier life. Some people call this type of autism “high functioning,” or use the former diagnostic label of “Asperger’s Disorder.” We are aware that many people with autism find both of those labels to be negative and/or incomplete (for example, the Autistic Self Advocacy Network’s description here), and we use them here only to help folks who are seeking an evaluation find what they are looking for. We are a neurodiversity-affirming practice, and do not believe that autism must be pathologized or treated. We do not believe that a diagnosis is necessary to benefit from learning about strategies that are often helpful to people with autism. But sometimes a diagnosis can be a tool for self-advocacy and self-understanding, and we can help with that.
Many adults who have not previously been diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder do not know that they have autism until they realize that some of their experiences are significantly different from those of the people around them. Sometimes symptoms become more obvious in an adult context of work, friendships, or romantic relationships. An evaluation can help clients understand themselves better and to get started on a path of learning more about how their brain and emotions work best, and how to advocate for themselves and communicate effectively about their experiences.
Adults (children should have a Comprehensive Evaluation) when there are concerns regarding any or all of the following:
- Sensory sensitivities that are strong and disruptive to functioning
- Having a very strong area of interest that other people seem to tire of hearing about
- Use of repetitive behaviors to help regulate emotions or sensory overload (this is often called “stimming” – and is described more here)
- Challenges in social interaction with neurotypical people (this often includes discomfort with eye contact, being more direct than is expected by others, difficulty understanding subtle signals regarding other people’s emotions)
- Initial Interview. Complete developmental history in which you will be asked about your childhood, experiences at school, and as an adult.
- Testing Session: Several hours of testing including measures of intelligence and psychological processes.
- Behavioral questionnaires for the person being evaluated
- A detailed feedback session: provides results, diagnosis (if there is any), and recommendations/resources.
- A written report documents the evaluation results and provides the information needed if the person would like to apply for accommodations or to share the information in a formal way with a mental or physical health care provider.
“I have been watching TikTok videos about autism and I seem to have all of the experiences they talk about there”
- “My spouse keeps telling me that I am not being supportive or I am being insensitive, but I think I just have trouble knowing what their feelings are if they don’t tell me directly”
- “I am having difficulties with social interactions at work, and I think an evaluation would help me understand if there are ways to advocate for myself there”
Overall cost: $1500
Private Pay: If you are paying directly for the evaluation (you are not using insurance), you will pay $500 at the initial intake session, and the remaining balance at the second session.
Insurance: This type of evaluation is often covered by insurance. We will check with your insurance directly to determine whether this service is covered, and will bill your insurance directly for the evaluation if it is covered. You will be responsible for payments that are required by insurance (for example, deductible, co-pay, or co-insurance).