Can Autism Testing Be Done Virtually? Everything You Need to Know

Telehealth is making it much easier to access affirming, expert assessors﹣without worrying about geographical barriers. More providers have been transitioning to offer virtual autism assessments. This begs the question, “Can autism testing be done virtually?” and the answer is absolutely! Virtual autism evaluations are not only possible but can be highly effective, particularly for adult autism assessments. In this blog, we’ll explore how virtual autism testing works, its benefits, potential limitations, and what to expect from the process.

Can Autism Testing Be Done Online?

Yes, autism testing can be conducted virtually, especially for adults seeking an autism evaluation. Thanks to telehealth, many neurodiversity-affirming providers now offer comprehensive remote autism assessments. These virtual evaluations often include clinical interviews, self-report questionnaires, and standardized diagnostic tools, all conducted over secure video platforms.

How Does Virtual Autism Testing Work?

A virtual autism evaluation at NeuroSpark Health involves several key steps:

1. Pre-Assessment Consultation

Before the formal evaluation, you’ll be invited to book a free 15-minute consultation so you can get a feel for what to expect and get all your questions answered.

2. Questionnaires

After you schedule your assessment, you’ll be asked to complete intake paperwork and self-assessment forms. These may cover your developmental history, autistic traits, and current areas of concern.

3. Clinical Interview

The main portion of the virtual autism assessment is a clinical interview with a licensed mental health professional. This conversation explores your social communication patterns, sensory experiences, special interests, and potential masking behaviors.

4. Diagnostic Feedback and Report

After completing the virtual assessment, you’ll get your provider’s feedback. You can choose to receive a formal diagnostic report with detailed findings, including how you meet the criteria for autism. Your provider will also include next steps, such as recommendations for accommodations, support, and resources.

Benefits of Virtual Autism Assessments

Opting for a virtual autism evaluation offers several advantages:

1. Accessibility and Convenience

Virtual testing allows you to complete the assessment from the comfort of your home, removing the need for travel. This makes it easier for people in rural or underserved areas to access specialized autism evaluations.

2. Reduced Sensory and Social Stress

For autistic individuals, attending in-person appointments can be overstimulating or anxiety-inducing. Virtual assessments often minimize sensory stress by allowing you to remain in a familiar, cozy environment. You can take as many breaks as you need!

3. Increased Availability of Specialists

Virtual testing provides access to autism specialists (which may not even exist in your local area), allowing you to connect with neurodiversity-affirming providers who truly understand adult autism, high-masking presentations, etc.

Limitations of Virtual Autism Testing

While some may assume that virtual adult autism testing is limited, the differences are minimal. At NeuroSpark Health, we use the MIGDAS-2 diagnostic tool, which is suited for telehealth applications with adults. This assessment involves extensive verbal exploration of current and childhood sensory experiences, social communication patterns, and emotional responses, making it highly effective in a virtual format.

Additionally, during the interview, you are welcome to use sensory materials or fidgets from your own environment, which you can discuss with your evaluator. Unlike in-person assessments for children, where direct observation of sensory interactions is more essential, adult autism evaluations focus more on self-reported experiences and verbal reflection. As a result, the lack of physical sensory materials in a virtual setting does not significantly impact the accuracy or depth of the assessment.

Is Virtual Autism Testing Accurate?

Virtual autism assessments can be just as reliable as in-person evaluations for adults. Studies have shown that telehealth-based autism diagnoses are valid and effective when conducted by trained clinicians using standardized diagnostic tools.

To ensure accuracy, you can feel free to ask your provider about their approach and experience with virtual autism assessments. Most importantly, you need to ensure that you find one that specializes in adult autism diagnosis!

How to Find a Virtual Autism Assessment Provider

If you’re considering virtual autism testing, it’s important to find a reputable provider. Here’s what to look for:

1. Neurodiversity-Affirming Approach

Seek providers who use affirming language and respect self-identification.

2. Specialization in Adult Autism

Many practices focus on children, so make sure you choose one that specializes in adult assessments.

3. Comprehensive Evaluation Process

Ensure they use validated diagnostic tools and provide detailed feedback.

Virtual Autism Testing is Our Jam

At NeuroSpark Health, we specialize in expert, neurodiversity-affirming adult autism assessments and ADHD assessments. Our fully virtual evaluations offer comprehensive, accurate, and affirming diagnoses for adults seeking clarity and support. You can learn more about our specialties here, but we prioritize:

• Expertise in Adult Autism: Our team understands the unique presentation of autism in adults, including late-diagnosed individuals and those who mask.
• Intersectionality: We are inclusive and understanding to a variety of factors that overlap and intersect with one’s identity beyond neurodivergence, including cultural and gender diversity.
• Accessible in Most States: We provide virtual assessments in most states (with no waitlist!), making our services widely accessible.
• Comprehensive Reports and Support: Our detailed diagnostic reports include tailored recommendations to help you navigate accommodations, self-advocacy, and next steps, such as post-diagnosis coaching.

So, Can Autism Testing Be Done Virtually? Yes!

Virtual autism testing is not only possible but also highly effective for adults. It offers accessibility, comfort, and the ability to connect with expert providers no matter where you live. If you’re seeking a thorough and affirming virtual autism assessment, consider working with a provider like NeuroSpark Health.

Considering a virtual autism assessment? We’d love to answer any questions you may have to determine if this is a fit for you. Contact us today to learn more or schedule a consultation.