Supporting neurodiversity
Comprehensive Autism Assessment
Are you struggling to fit in or make sense of your experiences?
Have you always felt different but couldn’t quite understand why? Perhaps you’ve tried therapy without seeing results or been given diagnoses that never quite felt right. Whether you’re a teenager navigating social pressures or an adult trying to make sense of lifelong challenges, you might suspect that autism is at the root of your struggles. Or, maybe you already identify as autistic and want a formal diagnosis to better understand yourself.
Do you feel like you’re constantly masking—pretending to be someone you’re not—just to fit in? Are your relationships with friends, family, or partners suffering due to miscommunications, misunderstandings, or emotional disconnect? Living with undiagnosed autism can lead to feelings of isolation, frustration, and even burnout. But you don’t have to navigate this journey alone.
Understanding autism
It's more common than you think.
Autism isn’t as rare as many people assume. Today, the understanding of autism has evolved, with more adolescents and adults being diagnosed than ever before. For years, autism was seen primarily in young boys, but current research shows that it’s equally present in girls, women, and even adults who have gone undiagnosed for decades.
Why Is an Autism Diagnosis Important?
Many adolescents and adults with autism go through life feeling misunderstood, often because their symptoms don’t fit the stereotypes. You may have difficulty with social interactions, experience sensory sensitivities, or struggle with emotional regulation. These challenges can lead to anxiety, depression, or even burnout. However, receiving an accurate diagnosis is the first step in learning how to accommodate your unique needs and embrace your strengths.
About Our Process
Our Autism Testing Process for Adolescents and Adults
At Mind Brain Path, we believe in a thorough, compassionate approach to autism assessments. Our evaluation process is designed to help you better understand how your brain works, what challenges your face, and how you can succeed.
We understand that autism often co-occurs with conditions like anxiety, depression, or ADHD, and our expert clinicians are skilled in providing support that focuses on your overall well-being.
Why Seek a Diagnosis of Autism
Benefits of a Diagnostic Evaluation for Autism
At Mind Brain Path, a focused autism evaluation can unlock important benefits and support services for individuals with autism. One of the most significant advantages of receiving a formal autism diagnosis is the potential eligibility for government disability accommodations, depending on your local policies.
Don’t wait to access the accommodations and benefits that can improve your daily life. Contact Mind Brain Path today to schedule your autism diagnostic evaluation and begin the journey to understanding yourself and unlocking potential government support.
FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions
- Do I need to bring anything to my online autism assessment?
We encourage you to bring any notes, results from online self-assessments (like the RAADS-R), or personal insights you’ve gathered about traits you identify with. Additionally, input from family members or friends may be helpful, especially if they’ve observed behaviors you’d like to discuss.
- Is the autism assessment suitable for adults?
Yes! We offer autism assessments for both adolescents and adults. Many adults seek assessments later in life to better understand their experiences and needs. Whether you’ve suspected autism for a long time or you’re just beginning to explore this possibility, our evaluation is tailored to help you gain the insights and support you need.
- How much does an autism assessment cost?
The cost of our autism assessment services varies depending on the depth of the evaluation. We offer flexible payment options, including payment plans through Care Credit, and we have reduced rates available for individuals facing financial hardships. Please contact our team to discuss the specific costs and payment options.
- How do I get started with the autism assessment process?
Getting started is easy! Contact us to schedule a free 15-minute consultation with one of our team members. During this consultation, we’ll answer any questions you have and walk you through the next steps for booking your assessment. After that, we’ll schedule your virtual sessions at times that work best for you.
- What should I expect during the feedback session?
At your feedback session (which typically occurs about two weeks after your final testing appointment), you’ll receive a detailed explanation of your assessment results. We’ll discuss any diagnosis, provide insights into your neurotype, and offer recommendations for accommodations or ongoing support. If needed, you’ll also receive referrals to additional services such as therapy or occupational support.
- What is a neurodiversity-affirming framework?
At Mind Brain Path, we practice from a neurodiversity-affirming perspective, which means we view neurodiversity as a natural and valuable part of human diversity. Our approach is supportive of your unique traits, and we focus on helping you embrace your strengths while navigating the challenges of a neurotypical world.
- What is the difference between the Abbreviated Autism Spectrum Disorder Assessment and the Comprehensive Autism Spectrum Disorder Assessment?
The main difference between the Abbreviated Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) Assessment and the Comprehensive ASD Assessment lies in the depth and scope of the evaluations.
Abbreviated Autism Spectrum Disorder Assessment:
This assessment is designed for individuals who need a quicker evaluation to confirm or rule out a diagnosis of ASD. It typically involves a shorter, more focused series of assessments and may not delve into all areas of cognitive and behavioral functioning. The abbreviated assessment is ideal for those who need an initial diagnosis or have already undergone some testing and need further confirmation.Comprehensive Autism Spectrum Disorder Assessment:
The comprehensive assessment provides a more in-depth evaluation, including a broader range of tests that assess cognitive, social, emotional, and behavioral functioning. It often involves multiple sessions over several weeks and may include input from family members or educators. This assessment is ideal for individuals who need a thorough understanding of how autism affects various aspects of life, including recommendations for interventions, accommodations, and support strategies. - Can I get an autism assessment through telehealth?
Yes! All of our autism assessments are available through telehealth. You can complete the entire process from the comfort of your home, including interviews, questionnaires, and any additional tasks required for the assessment. We also encourage you to have any sensory items or comforts you need during the process, ensuring a relaxed and familiar environment.
- How long does the autism assessment process take?
Our autism assessments typically take between four to five sessions, with each session lasting around two hours. After your final session, you can expect to receive feedback within two weeks, and the complete report is usually delivered between four to eight weeks afterward. This timeline may vary depending on individual needs and scheduling availability.
- Will my autism diagnosis help me get disability support?
An official autism diagnosis may help you qualify for government disability accommodations, depending on local regulations. These supports could include educational accommodations, workplace adjustments, and even financial assistance. It’s essential to check your local policies to understand what benefits you might be eligible for based on your diagnosis.
