How is autism diagnosed?

Autism is a spectrum, which means it presents in diverse ways. It can be understood by certain categories and subcategories. The two main categories can be broken down into (A) differences in social communication/interaction, and (B) restrictive/repetitive behaviors.
Read more: DSM-5-TR diagnostic criteria.

Autism is typically identified in early childhood. But for some of us, signs of autism go unnoticed or misdiagnosed into adulthood. 

Social communication/interaction differences can include, but are not limited to:

• Struggling with social reciprocity (the back-and-forth of social interactions)

• Having trouble understanding social norms

• Having difficulty with nonverbal communication 

• Experiencing difficulty making and maintaining relationships

Restrictive/repetitive behaviors (stims) may include, but are not limited to:

• Performing repetitive movements

• Repeatedly using the same objects

• Repeating words, sounds or phrases

• Insisting on sameness in one’s schedules, routines or environment

• Intense interest in specific subjects, topics or activities 

While autism can present many challenges, it can also come with strengths. Every autistic person is different and has unique talents and amazing qualities ranging from attention to detail, to a strong sense of justice, to extraordinary creativity and intelligence.  

Who can be autistic? 

Studies have shown that the most significant contributing factor associated with autism is genetics. Autism occurs more frequently in families where parents are autistic as well. Environmental factors have also been studied as potential contributors to autism, including advanced parental age, prenatal exposure to pollution/toxins, maternal health, pregnancy complications, birth complications or very low birth weight.

Autism occurs across socioeconomic, racial and ethnic groups. Autism is typically diagnosed in childhood and is estimated that undiagnosed or misdiagnosed into adolescence or adulthood.

Autism can be diagnosed by psychologists, qualified mental health providers, pediatricians, and neurologists. Read more: Who Can Diagnose Autism?

Diagnosing autism in adults requires specialized training and understanding that autism presents differently later in life, especially for high-masking adults and/or minorities. The diagnostic assessment process varies by provider. Some evaluations require interviews with primary caregivers or close family members while others may include the ADOS. (The ADOS is often referred to as the gold standard in autism assessment but it isn't great for adults). You can read more about our affirming assessment procedure here. NeuroSpark believes receiving an accurate diagnosis of autism often helps a person make sense of past and current challenges, identify strengths and differences, and find needed support. 

Support options available for autistic adults

While autism presents challenges relative to how a person experiences and interacts with the world, it’s important to recognize that with the appropriate supports in place, one can embrace their neurodivergence and live their life in a way that is fulfilling, safe and meaningful to them. 

Autism is not a disease that needs to be cured, and not every autistic person requires professional assistance just because they are autistic. For those that do wish to receive professional help, support for autistic adults should be affirming and collaborative. Strategies include:

• Autism-affirming therapy (5 Reasons it Could be Life Changing)

• Neuro-affirming coaching

• ADA / Disability accommodations

• Occupational therapy

• Treating co-occurring conditions 

• Connecting with community

NeuroSpark Health offers expert diagnostic assessment and autism-affirming therapy that respects the individuality of every person 

At NeuroSpark Health, we come from a lived experience perspective and a place of zero judgment. We would love to support you through an autism assessment, autism-affirming therapy, or coaching.

We pride ourselves on authenticity. We are neurodivergent-led and neurodivergent-owned. We value lived-experience. We pride ourselves in creating an environment that is safe and affirming for all people, especially neurodivergent adults from marginalized communities.