Social media is currently shining a light on ADHD and Autism and helping people understand themselves more fully than they ever have. The majority of research and intervention with these two neurotypes has focused on men and boys, so the unique presentation and experience of these states in women and girls is finally getting attention.
As it happens, knowledge of these conditions in adults tends to be limited among clinicians licensed to diagnose and treat mental and behavioral health. Because of this, people are encountering barriers to getting the assessment and support they desire.
The truth is, you don't need to pay exorbitant fees and undergo hours of specialized testing to determine your place on the neurological spectrum. I value self-diagnosis that motivates individuals to seek out confirmation from a specialist. If you recognize yourself in videos you've seen or comments you've heard, seeking out evaluation may help you gain clarity, validation, and ideas to help you navigate life more smoothly. My licenses, experience, and knowledge base qualify me to evaluate and diagnose the conditions of ADHD and Autism according to criteria set forth in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual (DSM-5). I achieve this through a combination of interview, biopsychosocial history review, and psychometric assessment. The process typically requires two to five therapy sessions.
Autism is much more common and less exotic than most people tend to imagine. The spectrum is extremely broad, and yet the same diagnostic verbiage applies to people with vastly different levels of challenges. I do not view Autism through the medical model, and I don't love the DSM-5 language designating levels of "support needs". It's less stigmatizing than assigning people a functional status, but it still does not reflect the broad range of life experiences that fall under the autistic umbrella. Based on my personal and professional experiences, I notice that a person's level of challenge is largely correlated with how well they tolerate masking and/or low levels of social involvement and loneliness. The topics of autism and neurodivergence generate profound and fascinating conversations!
Among the clients I have treated over many years in practice, I see that many people occupy space on the neurological spectrum somewhere between ADHD and Autism, experiencing traits from each category while somehow meeting the requirements of daily life. However, those life achievements often come at the expense of great energy and emotional turmoil. A lifetime of being highly sensitive, misunderstood, criticized, and rejected commonly leads to experiences of anxiety and depression. Health professionals often treat the symptoms with medications or skill-building therapies while failing to identify the root cause of the individual's expression of frustration and despair.
I am passionate about my work with people on the spectrum. I see great value in helping people understand themselves better and de-stigmatize the challenges they've faced throughout life. My practice is a welcoming and safe space for people of all genders, identities, and neurotypes to learn about themselves, be valued and supported, and gain knowledge and skills to feel competent and satisfied with their lives.