NEURODIVERSITY-AFFIRMING ADULT AUTISM ASSESSMENT

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The concept of neurodiversity challenges the traditional medical model used for

diagnosing, which often pathologizes differences and instead encourages acceptance, accommodation, and support for individuals with diverse neurological traits. A neurodiversity-affirming autism assessment is an evaluation process designed to understand and identify autism spectrum traits from the perspective of neurological diversity. This evaluation process is collaborative between a psychologist and a client seeking more insight about whether their strengths, differences, and challenges align with those who are on the autism spectrum.

• A neurodiversity assessment framework promotes inclusivity, understanding, and accommodation
• This model supports celebration of these differences rather than seeking to eliminate them.

Pursuing an autism diagnosis is a personal choice with different motivators for different people.

• Many adults pursue a formal diagnosis after learning about autism, whether through reading, social media, or a family member’s diagnosis.
• Many parents find themselves interested in the diagnostic process after going through a similar process with one (or more) of their children.
• A formal diagnosis can be a path towards better self-understanding and advocacy.

Tone of Assessment

• A respectful, collaborative, neurodiversity-affirming process.
• Final reports will highlight client’s strengths and challenges as shared by theclient and assessed by the provider.
• Reports will avoid deficit-based language.
• Open communication – Dr. Whitham is always open to feedback about thediagnostic process and how to make it more inclusive, respectful, and accessible.

Assessment Logistics

• Complete 3-5 self-report questionnaires
• 3 virtual sessions (60-90 minutes in length)
• Optional, additional session (60-90 minutes in length) with a loved one
• Diagnosis (if applicable) and reports provided in final session

Clinical Interview Sessions

The clinical interviews will include exploration of several areas including autism-related traits, as well as other possible co-occurring diagnoses (such as anxiety,

ADHD, depression)

Areas that will be discussed include:

• Experience of relationships
• Executive functioning abilities
• Anxiety and depression symptoms
• Sensory experiences
• Experience of social communication, both spoken language and non-verbal communication
• Interests and passions
• Daily functioning
• Feelings of loneliness or connection

• Greater self-understanding
• Greater ability to advocate for your needs
• Ability to connect with other autistic adults and find a like-minded community
• Provide loved ones with greater understanding of how your brain and body work
• If you have an autistic child, normalize the autistic experience and provide hope for a positive, fulfilling future
• Validation of a unique lived experience

• Typically ~1 month from start to finish
• Sessions usually scheduled 1-week apart
• The final session scheduled up to 2 weeks after the previous appointment to allow time for the information gathered to be synthesized and the report to be completed.

• The total cost of the assessment is $3,750, including the written report
• The evaluation with Dr. Whitham is not in-network for insurance panels, but a superbill can be provided at the end of the assessment process for submission to insurance for out-of-network coverage. Reimbursement rates will vary based on insurance coverage.