Neurodivergent Test: Discovering Your Unique Neurotype

By: NeuroSpark Health

Are you curious about your brain's unique wiring? Wondering if you might be neurodivergent? Discovering your unique neurotype can be an empowering journey of self-discovery and self-acceptance. Note: In this blog, we will be using the phrase neurodivergent test interchangeably in reference to screeners and in reference to our own services－ autism, ADHD, and dual assessment options.  Anyone whose brain differs from neurotypicality is neurodivergent. Because neurodivergence is so expensive, subsequently there are many different avenues and options to test if (and how) you are neurodivergent. At NeuroSpark, we have 3 neurodivergent test options (read: we have three diagnostic assessment options).

Neurodivergence refers to individuals whose neurological development and functioning are different from the norm. This includes neurodivergencies such as autism, ADHD, dyslexia, OCD, PTSD, and many more. The neurodiversity-affirming paradigm asserts that neurodivergencies such as autism and ADHD are not defects or disorders but rather represent natural variations in the human brain. Neurodivergent individuals have unique strengths, strengths, and ways of being information that differ from the neurotypical population.

By understanding your neurotype, you can gain valuable insights into your strengths, challenges, and ways of processing information. It allows you to embrace your unique wiring and fosters self-acceptance. Rather than trying to fit into a neurotypical mold, embracing neurodivergence allows you to celebrate your differences and appreciate the diverse perspectives you bring to the world.
 

Types of neurodivergent tests

The types of neurodivergent tests available depend greatly on practice, provider, and specialty. At NeuroSpark, we specialize in autism and ADHD, while also considering trauma-based neurodivergencies and other co-existing diagnoses. Our assessments provide you with a clearer understanding of your brain's unique characteristics. It can help you identify strengths, differences, patterns, preferences, ways of processing information, and potential areas for support. Whether you suspect you might be neurodivergent or simply want to explore your brain's exceptional qualities, there are many neurodivergent tests available–including free screeners available online, as well as diagnostic evaluations if you choose to pursue formal assessment/diagnosis.
 

Common neurodivergent conditions and their characteristics

Neurodivergence encompasses a wide range of neurotypes, each with its own characteristics and traits. Some of the most common neurodivergent conditions include:
 

1. Autism: Autistic individuals have differences with their social interaction, communication, information processing, and behaviors. However, they may also possess exceptional attention to detail, intense focus, pattern recognition, sense of justice, unique problem-solving abilities, and many more extraordinary skills that their brain is uniquely suited for.
    

2. ADHD:  ADHD is characterized by differences with attention, activity levels, executive functioning, and behavior. However, individuals with ADHD may also have high levels of creativity, adaptability, and a knack for thinking outside the box.
    

3. Dyslexia: Dyslexia is a learning difference that affects reading and language processing. However, dyslexic individuals often demonstrate exceptional verbal skills, creativity, and problem-solving abilities.
    

These are just a few examples of neurodivergence, and each individual's experience may vary as it is a spectrum and people hold intersectional identities and neurotypes. 
 

The importance of self-discovery and self-acceptance

The process of self-discovery and self-acceptance can be an intimate and eye-opening journey for individuals who suspect they might be neurodivergent. Understanding your neurotype can provide a sense of validation and help you make sense of your experiences and challenges. It allows you to embrace your strengths and navigate your life with greater self-awareness.
Self-acceptance is a powerful tool in overcoming societal stigmas, internalized ableism, and misconceptions surrounding neurodivergent individuals. It also involves healing and unlearning deficit-based narratives that may have been taught to us by former medical providers. By learning about and owning your neurodivergence, you can identify adjustments or accommodations that are more sustainable for your brain. It is important to remember that being neurodivergent is not a flaw or something to be fixed; it is a fundamental part of who you are.
 

Taking a neurodivergent test: How it works and what to expect

If you suspect you might be neurodivergent or simply want to explore your brain's exceptional qualities, you may begin by engaging in your own-self research. This could look like, reading about neurodivergence, watching videos online, engaging in online platforms with others in the community, and lots of deep self-reflection. These are the beginning stages of self-identification and self-diagnosis, which is a valid and important process. Many individuals may choose to take a neurodivergent test online, such as free screeners that can provide them with more information. Some individuals may decide that the neurodivergent test they are looking for is a formal diagnostic assessment. Some even choose all of the above as they want as much information, answers, and validation they can get from multiple avenues. These neurodivergent tests are available to assess your neurotype and provide you with a clearer understanding of your brain's unique characteristics.

Neurodivergent tests typically involve a series of questions that evaluate various aspects of your information processing, sensory processing, communication, and social experiences. The questions may explore your preferences, strengths, and challenges in different areas of your life. 
 

Different types of neurodivergent tests available for autism or ADHD

There are several different types of neurodivergent tests available, each focusing on different aspects of neurodivergence. Some tests may be specific to certain diagnoses, while others provide a broader assessment of neurodivergent traits. Here are a few examples:
 

1. Autism Quotient (AQ) Test: This test is commonly used to identify potential autism traits in individuals. It assesses social skills, communication abilities, attention to detail, and patterns of thought.
    

2. ADHD Self-Report Scale: This test helps evaluate the presence and severity of ADHD symptoms. It assesses attention, hyperactivity, impulsivity, and executive functioning skills.
    

3. Sensory Profile: This test examines an individual's sensory processing patterns, including how they respond to different stimuli such as sound, touch, taste, and smell. It helps identify sensory sensitivities or sensory-seeking behaviors.
    

Remember that these tests should be used as a tool for self-discovery and self-reflection. They are not diagnostic tools and should not replace professional evaluation or consultation.
 

Neurodivergent Tests for autism and ADHD at NeuroSpark

1. MIGDAS-2: The Monteiro Interview Guidelines for Diagnosing the Autism Spectrum, also known as the MIGDAS-2 (For Adults with Verbal Fluency) is a structured, strengths-based, evidenced-based diagnostic interview process that we use for autism assessment in addition to a variety of questionnaires and forms that clients are asked to fill out to give us a comprehensive picture of their experience.
    

2. DIVA-5: The Diagnostic Interview for ADHD in Adults Third Edition, DIVA-5, is a semi-structured diagnostic interview used to gather information about ADHD traits in childhood and adulthood across several areas of life including work, relationships, social life, free time, and self image. It provides concrete examples for current and past experiences.
    

Understanding your unique neurotype

Once you have taken one (or several) neurodivergent tests, it can be helpful to interpret the results with the help of a professional or knowledgeable resource. Understanding your unique neurotype involves analyzing the patterns, preferences, and potential areas for support identified in the test.

Interpreting your neurodivergent test results can help you gain insights into your strengths, differences, sensory sensitivities, communication styles, and other aspects of your neurodivergent profile. It can provide a roadmap for personal growth, self-advocacy, and developing strategies to manage challenges.
 

Seeking support and resources for your specific neurotype

Being neurodivergent can come with unique challenges, and it is important to identify your needs and seek support and resources that work for your specific neurotype. Connecting with support groups, online communities, and organizations that specialize in neurodivergent affirming practices can provide you with valuable insights, guidance, and a sense of belonging.
These communities can offer practical advice, share experiences, and provide a safe space for neurodivergent individuals to connect and support one another. Additionally, seeking professional help from therapists, educators, or coaches who specialize in neurodivergence can also be instrumental in navigating the challenges and celebrating the strengths associated with your neurotype.
 

NeuroSpark can help you with neurodivergent testing for autism and ADHD

Understanding your brain's remarkable diversity and gaining insights about your brainstyle can be a transformative and empowering process. Understanding your unique neurotype allows you to learn about your differences, embrace your strengths, identify your needs, and learn how to get those needs met.

Being neurodivergent is a beautiful variation of human neurology. We can help you discover what makes you different and what makes you shine. Embrace your neurodivergent self, discover your unique neurotype, and let your exceptional brain shine brightly in a world that is not quite designed for brains that diverge.