From Misdiagnosis to Validation: Addressing Women’s Concerns About Autism Testing
If you're reading this, chances are you've been on a journey to understand yourself better, seeking answers to questions that have lingered for far too long. You may have found yourself questioning whether you could be autistic, only to be met with dismissive responses or misdiagnoses from other providers. I understand the frustration, the uncertainty, and the fear that comes with feeling misunderstood and overlooked.
You've likely heard phrases like, "But you make eye contact," or "You've held a job, so you can't be autistic." These statements can be disheartening and invalidating, leaving you questioning your own experiences and intuition. It's a common experience for many women who mask their symptoms, hiding their true selves behind a façade of conformity to societal norms.
Embarking on the journey of autism testing as a woman can be both empowering and daunting. It's a process that requires courage, vulnerability, and a willingness to confront deeply ingrained societal norms and misconceptions. But it's also a journey towards greater self-understanding, acceptance, and authenticity.
One of the most common fears that women face when considering autism testing is the fear of not being believed or taken seriously. This fear is rooted in the experiences of many women who have been dismissed or invalidated by healthcare professionals who fail to recognize the nuances of autism in women. It can be incredibly disheartening to share your struggles and vulnerabilities, only to have them brushed aside or attributed to other causes.
Autism Misdiagnosis in Women
Another common fear is the fear of being misunderstood or misdiagnosed. Many women who seek autism testing have already been given a laundry list of other diagnoses like borderline personality disorder, OCD, anxiety, or bipolar disorder, none of which seem to fully capture their experiences. They know themselves better than anyone else, and they know that they are autistic, even if others don't see it.
Masking is another significant factor that contributes to the fears women have about autism testing. Many women with autism have become experts at masking their symptoms, camouflaging their true selves to fit in with neurotypical society. This ability to blend in can make it difficult for others to see past the façade and recognize the underlying struggles and challenges.
Gender Bias in Autism Diagnosis
The truth is, autism presents differently in women than it does in men. Many providers are still operating under outdated assumptions based on research that primarily focused on boys and men with autism. But we know better now. Autism is a spectrum, and each individual's experience is unique. It's not about fitting into a narrow stereotype like Rain Man or Sheldon Cooper; it's about recognizing the diverse ways that autism can manifest in women.
Neurodiversity-Affirming Autism Testing for Women
But despite these fears and challenges, seeking autism testing can be a powerful act of self-advocacy and self-care. It's an opportunity to reclaim your narrative, validate your experiences, and connect with a community that understands and accepts you for who you are. It's a step towards greater self-awareness, self-acceptance, and self-compassion.
As a Psychologist specializing in neurodiversity-affirming testing for autism and ADHD, I want to assure you that your experiences are valid, and your voice matters. I understand the complexities of high-masking presentations of autism in women and the challenges you may face in seeking a diagnosis. I don't believe in making people jump through hoops or adhering to outdated criteria. Instead, I prioritize your lived experience and the story you share with me.
My approach to evaluation is rooted in empathy, understanding, and a commitment to centering your needs and experiences. I strive to create a safe and comfortable space where you can openly discuss your concerns, fears, and hopes for the future. Your journey towards self-discovery deserves to be met with compassion and respect, and I am here to support you every step of the way.
If you're ready to take the next step towards understanding yourself better and reclaiming your narrative, I invite you to reach out. Together, we can break down barriers, challenge stereotypes, and embrace the beauty of neurodiversity. You are not alone, and your story is worth telling. Reach out to me so we can talk more about my approach to autism testing for women.
Author: Heather Joppich, PhD
Dr. Joppich is a Licensed Psychologist and owner of Zephyr Care Mental Health. She specializes in neurodiversity-affirming assessments for autism, ADHD, and mental health concerns.
