Providing Neuro-affirming Diagnostic Evaluations for Autism in Massachusetts, Connecticut, and New Hampshire
From two separate comments I made on other re-posts of this meme: The condition that prompts the diagnosis exists prior to the diagnosis. This is true of every single diagnosis, whether it be medical, psychiatric, or otherwise. Most high-masking Autistics without intellectual disability can find the peace and healing they need with neuro-affirming psychotherapy and improved self-compassion and accommodations. This is why I use an "enthusiastic informed consent" model when I do diagnostic evaluations for adults. I want to make sure they examine the relative value of the dx versus just...beginning to self-actualize. 💓 Some folks need the medical dx to access benefits, specific treatments, or overcome imposter syndrome, and hopefully they're lucky enough to have the resources to seek evaluation. The debate about "self-diagnosis" is wasting time and effort. We need to help support the unidentified Neurodivergent population now. The associated suicide risks are too great. #actuallyautistic #adultdiagnosis #latediagnosis #autistic #auDHD #ADHD #neurodivergent #neurodiversity #autism #diagnosis #nothingaboutuswithoutus 💪
Autistic and Trans Special Education Teacher and author of No Place for Autism and Holistic Language Instruction.
In so many places, a diagnosis is an expensive privilege.
Including whether the person is yet to be identified Autistic (by self or others). It is what it is regardless.
Agree wholeheartedly. We also need more availability to Paediatrics so the assessment and diagnosis can be completed in under a year for a child .
As someone who was undiagnosed for 43 years I can confirm this.
Exactly
YES!
Student Immigration Advisor at University of Hertfordshire
8moNot just children, but also adults who may never have been referred in childhood due to parents not knowing about autism. Or that they are female so autism would never have been considered. Also the ability to complain or request a second opinion at any time, not just within 2 months. (My experience) it takes a lot for an undiagnosed autistic person to go through the diagnostic process. To then be let down by the service can really set them back. It can take years for them to build up to consider putting themselves through the process again. Only to receive a refusal to a reassessment request.