If you are reading this post, you probably suspect that you are on the Autism Spectrum. You might have done some research or Googled and are wondering about the process.
Dr. Smith is a Certified Autism Disorder Clinical Specialist and she specializes in diagnosing adults. She understands their unique needs and how differently they present. She is also very aware that many standardized Autism tests are designed for children. She has a lot of experience recognizing adult level masking as well as exploring adult stressors like jobs, finances, parenting and romantic relationships. She is also well versed in co-occurring disorders like anxiety, depression, and PTSD that aren't as common in young children.
Dr. Smith begins by sending a few screening self assessments. The Autism Spectrum Quotient (AQ), Repetitive Behaviors Questionnaire (RBQ-2A), and the Camouflaging Autistic Traits Questionnaire (CAT-Q). These are not diagnostic, but provide a starting point for the symptoms that you recognize in yourself. Many adults on the spectrum are excellent at hiding autism traits and the CAT-Q does a good job of detecting this.
Your first appointment is a review of your complete medical and mental health history. Dr. Smith will also discuss the results of the screenings and answer any questions you may have. The autism assessment is completed through a comprehensive clinical interview using the MIGDAS-2 evaluation tool. This tool is used because it can be administered via telehealth and for its neurodiversity-affirming, non-pathologizing approach. The results are reviewed against the criteria for Autism Spectrum, which are defined in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders Fifth Edition- DSM-5, 2013.
Dr. Smith is also certified to administer the ADOS-2 Autism Assessment; however, this must be done in-person and takes much longer to complete. It requires scheduling far in advance, and Dr. Smith does not use this often. However, if it is appropriate and the better test for you, she will discuss this option.
The final step of the process is a second appointment to review all of the results and discuss the next steps. This meeting is also an hour so that your goals can be incorporated in the plan. It is not just about medications or treatment, it is about changing your life for the better.
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