The number of adults seeking an autism diagnosis is on the rise as more awareness and understanding is being spread about the condition. Undergoing an autism assessment can be a
significant step for individuals and families seeking answers and support. If you or a loved one
are considering an autism assessment, understanding what to expect can help ease any anxieties and prepare you for the process ahead. This post will provide a comprehensive
overview of what you can expect during an autism assessment. And if you want to find an assessor, this can be done through our verified directory of professionals.
Purpose of an Autism Assessment
Many individuals who start the process of figuring out if they are autistic feel they benefit of
having a formal diagnosis for several reasons:
● Having a professional validate their suspicions brings relief
● Individuals can formally ask for reasonable adjustments at school or in the workplace
● Being able to understand themselves better, their past, present, and then plan for their future, all via a neurodivergent lens
Before the initial consultation, clinicians may ask you to fill out standardised autism psychometric questionnaires or forms that provide insights into your behaviour, communication, and social interactions. These may include standardised tests or developmental history forms. They may ask family members or teachers to fill in these forms as well.
During the Autism Assessment
On the day of the assessment here’s what typically happens:
Autism Assessment: You will likely start with a meeting where the clinician discusses your history
and reasons for referral. This is a chance to share concerns and observations about behaviour
and development. They will go through a timeline of your life as such, exploring childhood, family, education, employment, mental and physical health. Following the history taking, the clinician will then go through a standardised diagnostic interview to look at social differences and restrictive or repetitive patterns of behaviours, such as routines, change, interests and sensory experiences.
Direct Observation: The clinician will carry out observations during the assessment, which may include interactive activities or simply how observing how you are in the room and in conversation. These observations provide valuable insights into social skills, communication, and behaviour.
Interview with a family member or partner: The clinician will likely ask to interview a family
member or partner to further corroborate your behaviour at home and in social situations. This is important for creating a complete picture of your experiences, strengths and challenges.
Results: After the assessment is complete, the clinician will discuss their findings with you. If a
diagnosis of autism is made, they will explain the implications and what support options are
available. If autism is not diagnosed, they will provide alternative explanations for what might be going on, such as a formulation around mental health or an alternative neurodevelopmental condition.
What happens after receiving your autism diagnosis?
Your clinician will send you a report of your assessment which will explain whether you meet the
criteria for an autism diagnosis and what that diagnosis means in terms of strengths and
challenges. They will also provide recommendations for resources that may include:
● Support Groups
● Types of Therapy
● Post-diagnostic Coaching
● Local Organisations
They may also provide personalised strategies to help with your differences such as how to
improve executive dysfunction, sensory sensitivities, social skills and mental health.
Receiving an autism diagnosis can elicit a wide range of emotions and thoughts. Alongside the
sense of relief upon receiving an autism diagnosis you may also go through feelings of grief,
confusion and uncertainty.
Many adults who receive a diagnosis are considered “late-diagnosed” individuals as autism is
usually diagnosed during childhood. This means that you may feel quite confused with your
sense of self and identity as you may have spent a significant amount of your life masking and
compensating for your struggles. Some people may also feel concerned about how others will perceive them if they share their diagnosis. This stigma around autism can lead to anxiety about being accepted at work or at home.
Ultimately, a diagnosis usually leads to profound self-reflection and personal growth. It may
provide clarity on past experiences, helping you understand your strengths and challenges
better. It’s important to understand what the diagnosis personally means for you. The clinician
will likely discuss the characteristics of autism that resonate with your experiences, helping to
validate your feelings and experiences.
Something to note, do keep in mind that a diagnosis is just one part of your journey! It opens the door to resources and strategies but it is also the first step in learning how to embrace and accept your neurodivergence. The journey afterwards can be tough but it is important to embrace this opportunity for growth, connection, and self-discovery as you move onward.
If this has resonated with you and you want to learn more, check out our blogs here – Blogs
If you feel ready to explore an assessment, you can do so via our directory here – Find a Specialist
Author: Illin Johnson
Illin is a content creator for NeuroDirect and a neurodevelopmental support coach for her business Neurostar Wellbeing. Being a late-diagnosed autistic herself, she is dedicated to raising awareness about neurodiversity and empowering neurodiverse individuals through her social media content and work as a coach. With a background in neuropsychology and behavioural therapy she approaches her work with curiosity and compassion and strives to create a genuine and supportive connection with her readers.