How to Get an Adult Autism Diagnosis

If you’ve been wondering if you might be autistic, a formal assessment and an official adult autism diagnosis can bring so much clarity and validation. Many of us, especially those who were never diagnosed as kids, have spent years feeling like something was off but not having the language or understanding to explain it.

It can feel like a big, overwhelming step, but it’s never too late to learn more about yourself and get the answers you deserve. Because understanding shouldn’t take decades.

Step-by-Step Instructions to an Adult Autism Diagnosis

So, let’s take a look at the steps to get an adult autism diagnosis, from finding the right professional to understanding the assessment process. This detailed guide is all you need to find the best assessment for you and an adult autism diagnosis.

Step 1: Adult Autism Diagnosis Assessment Options

The first thing you’ll want to do is find a provider who really gets it, someone who’s experienced with not only adult autism diagnosis but specifically late-diagnosed adults, and ideally someone who is open-minded and affirming about neurodiversity. When you’re looking for autism assessment options, make sure you’re looking for a professional who’s not stuck in outdated, pathologizing ways of thinking.

Sure, there may seem to be lots of assessment options out there, but not all of them will be the right fit for you (or any other adults in some cases!). Some providers are only really familiar with autism in kids and will not be familiar with autism in adults. Some providers will not understand the unique presentations of autism in women, AFAB, and genderqueer folks. That’s why it’s soooo important to ask the right questions when you talk to potential providers.

You should feel safe, heard, and understood in the process. Don’t settle for anything less.

👉 Read more: Who Can Diagnose Autism in Adults?

Step 2: Schedule a Consultation

Once you’ve found some options, schedule consultations with a couple of providers. This is your chance to figure out if you vibe with them. Before the consultation, it can be helpful to write down all of the things you want to ask about or discuss.

Ask about their experience diagnosing autism in adults, especially late diagnoses or adults who may have masked their traits for years. If they’re not familiar with neurodiversity-affirming language, you may want to keep looking.

Also, make sure to ask about the assessment methods they use. For example, some clinicians use the ADOS-2, which has been considered the gold standard for autism evaluations. But at NeuroSpark Health, we use the MIGDAS-2, which is a lot more comfortable and natural, like having a conversation, not a clinical interrogation. Also, the MIGDAS is more appropriate for adults, those with higher intelligence (2e), and those who do not present with the stereotypical, external signs of autism.

We also recommend that you ask about lived experience, specializations, wait lists, and anything else that’s important to you.

💡What if the provider doesn’t offer free consultations prior to assessment? Find another provider!

Step 3: Fill Out Paperwork and Questionnaires

Once you’ve found the right provider, you’ll fill out some initial paperwork. Don’t worry, this isn’t a big deal. You’ll fill out some basic forms (demographics, consent, payment info) and then receive a series of questionnaires. These will ask you about your life history, traits, and current experiences, and will help the clinician get a sense of what’s going on.

You may also have the option of having someone close to you give feedback. Some providers require participation by a family member or caregiver, but this is totally optional at NeuroSpark Health.

We also invite our clients to provide any additional information they feel would help us understand them. Sometimes, this includes past evaluations, results from online screeners (RAADS-R, CAT-Q, etc.), or even a document listing all of their traits and experiences and how those are consistent with the autism diagnostic criteria.

Check this out: Written Narratives of Autistic and Non-Autistic Women (Journal of Autism)

Be sure to give yourself time to complete everything. It’s a good idea to finish all of the paperwork a couple of days before the scheduled assessment. We ask our clients to complete everything at least 24 hours before their appointment.

Step 4: Complete the Autism Assessment

Now, the fun part! Your actual autism assessment. (Which is actually somewhat terrifying for most people, if I’m being honest.) The process usually takes about 2 hours. You’ll talk about your traits, challenges, and how you experience the world. *It’s normal to feel anxious, but you shouldn’t feel uncomfortable, dismissed, gaslit, etc.

This is where the magic happens. The clinical interview helps us understand you and really focus on the traits that make up your unique neurotype. The provider should be interested in your experiences, sensory sensitivities, relationships, interests, and strengths. You’re the expert on you. That’s the beauty of a neurodiversity-affirming autism diagnosis and assessment.

Read more about the positive benefits of identity-affirming mental health support for neurodivergent individuals (research article)

Step 5: Review Your Results

The process for getting your assessment results will vary by clinician and practice.

NeuroSpark Health providers always try to discuss the results at the conclusion of the clinical interview, on the same day as your assessment. These results are shared privately, only with you.

For those who choose the optional report, you’ll receive the full comprehensive report within 2 weeks of your assessment. The personalized, detailed report will explain how your brain works, whether or not you receive an official adult autism diagnosis, and highlight your strengths and challenges.

Take your time with this part; it’s okay (and very common) to feel a range of emotions. An official adult autism diagnosis is a big deal, and the validation and understanding it brings can be life-changing.

Step 6: Post-Assessment Debrief

This is another process that will vary by clinical and practice.

At NeuroSpark Health, we offer a free debrief with Dani after the evaluation. This is a relatively brief meeting where most clients discuss their assessment experience and process the emotions they’re experiencing. This is also your chance to ask any questions, get additional support, and talk about next steps. Whether you need guidance on autism resources, post-diagnosis coaching, or accommodations, we’re here to help. You’re never alone in this process!

We also offer an optional detailed feedback session with your provider. This hour-long meeting is generally used by clients to discuss specifics of the assessment process, the diagnostic results (whether you received an adult autism diagnosis or not), the comprehensive report, and recommendations in greater detail.

👉 Free download: Next Steps After an Autism Assessment

Why NeuroSpark Health?

Because we get it. We’re neurodivergent, too. We specialize in adult autism assessments (no kids here!), particularly for those who may have been missed earlier in life or misdiagnosed. We offer a neurodiversity-affirming approach to assessments and coaching, supporting you through the entire process of self-discovery. Our team is dedicated to helping you understand your neurotype and what you need to thrive.

Ready to Take the Next Step in Understanding Yourself?

If you’re ready to explore your neurodivergent identity, get an official adult autism diagnosis, or just learn more about your unique brain, we’re here for you. Contact us today to schedule your consultation!

How to Get Tested for Adult Autism: Next Steps

👉 Free Download: Roadmap to Diagnosis

👉 Read: How is Autism Diagnosed?

👉 Read: Can Autism Testing Be Done Virtually?

👉 Find: Where to Get Tested for Adult Autism