How to Find a Neurodiversity-Affirming Provider for Adult Autism Testing
When you’re an adult seeking autism testing, finding the right clinician is crucial. It’s important to ensure that the person you choose to work with is not only knowledgeable about autism but also neurodiversity-affirming. This means they respect and understand the diverse ways autism can present in adults, and they approach the assessment process with an open mind and a supportive attitude, not a gatekeeping approach. Here’s what you should look for to make sure your clinician is neurodiversity-affirming:
1. They Listen to Your Lived Experience: A neurodiversity-affirming clinician prioritizes listening to your personal experiences. They understand that you know yourself best and that your insights are key to an accurate diagnosis. They should be interested in how autism manifests in your daily life, rather than dismissing your concerns or relying solely on outdated stereotypes.
2. They Understand Adult Autism: Autism can look very different in adults compared to children, and many adults, particularly women, have learned to mask their traits. A neurodiversity-affirming clinician is up to date on how autism presents in adults and is aware of the subtle and varied signs. They should be knowledgeable about how masking can complicate the diagnostic process and be prepared to look beyond surface-level behaviors.
3. They Respect the Spectrum: Autism is a spectrum, meaning it includes a wide range of experiences and traits. A neurodiversity-affirming clinician recognizes this and doesn’t expect you to fit into a narrow, stereotypical box of what autism "should" look like. They should be open to the idea that autism can present in many different ways and not dismissive if your experiences don’t match their preconceived notions.
4. They Don’t Make You Prove You’re “Autistic Enough”: The right clinician won’t make you feel like you have to jump through hoops or prove that you’re "autistic enough" to receive a diagnosis. They should approach your assessment with empathy and respect, rather than skepticism. The process should be about understanding you better, not about meeting some arbitrary standard of autism.
5. They’re Informed About Neurodiversity: A neurodiversity-affirming clinician is well-versed in the neurodiversity movement, which recognizes and values neurological differences as natural variations of the human experience. They should see autism as part of a diverse spectrum of neurotypes, not as a flaw or something to be "fixed."
6. They Provide a Safe and Supportive Environment: The assessment process can be emotionally challenging, so it’s important to feel safe and supported. A neurodiversity-affirming clinician creates an environment where you feel comfortable being yourself. They should approach the assessment with compassion, patience, and an understanding of the vulnerability that comes with seeking a diagnosis.
By seeking out a clinician who embodies these qualities, you can ensure that your experience with autism testing is respectful, affirming, and truly focused on your individual journey. Remember, the right clinician will view you as a whole person, not just a set of symptoms, and will work with you to uncover the insights you need to better understand yourself.
Neurodiversity-Affirming Assessment Measures
When seeking an adult autism evaluation, it’s important to know which assessment tools are being used. A neurodiversity-affirming clinician will select measures that respect the individual and their unique presentation of autism, rather than using outdated tools that may pathologize or stereotype autistic traits.
One example is the MIGDAS-2 (Monteiro Interview Guidelines for Diagnosing the Autism Spectrum), which is a neurodiversity-affirming tool designed specifically for diagnosing autism. The MIGDAS-2 is rooted in a more person-centered approach, placing importance on the individual's lived experiences and communication style. This assessment looks beyond rigid, stereotypical markers and instead values a person's unique social and sensory preferences, allowing for a more holistic understanding of their strengths and challenges.
In contrast, the ADOS-2 (Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule) is often considered the “gold standard” for autism assessments, but is better suited for children or individuals with high support needs. It may not accurately reflect the experiences of adults, particularly those who mask their traits or who have learned to navigate neurotypical social cues. The ADOS-2 focuses on observable behaviors, which can overlook the complexities of adult autism, especially in women or high-masking individuals.
The MIGDAS-2, on the other hand, allows for more nuanced interpretation, which is crucial for adults who may have spent years developing compensatory strategies. Its conversational and observation-based approach reduces the stress and pressure often associated with traditional testing, leading to a more accurate and compassionate assessment.
Warning Signs of a Non-Neurodiversity-Affirming Provider
Finding a neurodiversity-affirming clinician isn’t just about what they do, but also what they avoid. Here are a few red flags to watch out for when searching for an adult autism provider:
Use of ABA (Applied Behavior Analysis): If a provider endorses ABA therapy for autism, particularly for adults, this could be a warning sign. ABA is often critiqued within the neurodiversity movement for its focus on compliance and reducing "autistic behaviors," rather than supporting the individual’s authentic self. A neurodiversity-affirming provider will avoid therapies that aim to "normalize" autistic people and instead support approaches that help you understand and embrace your neurodivergent identity.
Pathologizing Language: If a clinician uses language that frames autism as a deficit or something that needs to be "fixed," they are not likely to be neurodiversity-affirming. Phrases like “overcoming” autism or “curing” autism reflect outdated perspectives and are contrary to the neurodiversity movement.
Rigid Diagnostic Criteria: A provider who adheres strictly to narrow diagnostic frameworks or stereotypes of autism may not provide an accurate or affirming diagnosis. If they dismiss your experiences because you don’t fit a rigid mold, that’s a red flag.
Failure to Acknowledge Masking: If your clinician is not familiar with or does not take masking into account, they may overlook key aspects of your autistic experience. Masking is common in adults, especially in women, and it can complicate the assessment process. A good clinician will be aware of this and adjust their approach accordingly.
Why Mental Health Should Be Part of the Evaluation for Autism
When seeking an autism evaluation, it's essential to assess for a range of mental health symptoms, such as trauma/PTSD, OCD, depression, anxiety, psychosis, eating disorders, borderline personality disorder (BPD), and bipolar disorder. These conditions frequently co-occur with autism, and their presence can influence how autism manifests and how it is best understood and treated. A comprehensive evaluation is critical because it ensures that all potential factors contributing to a person’s experiences are considered, leading to a more accurate diagnosis and tailored recommendations.
One significant advantage of receiving an autism evaluation from a licensed Psychologist is the depth and breadth of the assessment. Psychologists are trained to use specialized tools and testing protocols that go beyond general mental health screenings. These include assessments specifically designed to diagnose autism and other neurodevelopmental and psychiatric conditions. In contrast, professionals such as counselors, social workers, Psychiatrists, and nurse practitioners may not have access to or training in these specialized diagnostic tools, leading to evaluations that are often less thorough. A comprehensive evaluation from a Psychologist ensures that all co-occurring conditions are recognized and addressed, providing a complete understanding of your mental health and how it interplays with autism.
Neurodiversity-Affirming Adult Autism Testing Near Me
At Zephyr Care, we specialize in neurodiversity-affirming evaluations, including for adults seeking autism and ADHD testing. We use evidence-based, validating tools like the MIGDAS-2 to ensure your assessment is tailored to your experiences and strengths. Whether you're seeking clarity or answers, our team offers a supportive, non-judgmental space to help you better understand your neurodivergent identity. Reach out today for a comprehensive evaluation that respects and affirms your individuality. Adult autism testing is available in Nashville, TN or virtually to people in most states. We also offer autism testing and ADHD testing for children.
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.
