Misconceptions around Autism and ADHD Assessments
An FAQ you’re gonna wanna save for later! The medical industry does a lousy job explaining where and how people can receive testing for ADHD and autism. Evaluations for adults (18+) can feel elusive since there are far more testing resources for children. Let's debunk some myths and get some clarity so that you can confidently get what you need. Written and inspired by The Properties Of Light (Learn More)
What is the difference between the diagnostic evaluations you offer and psychological testing/full psychological evaluation?
We’ll start with the basics. Psychological testing, conducted by a clinical psychologist, is often valuable in evaluating developmental and neuro-cognitive differences, including evaluation for educational needs such as specific learning differences and disabilities. This type of assessment can be helpful for looking at a wide range of potential explanations for behavioral, social, emotional and neuro-differences.
I do not conduct psychological testing, however, in Washington D.C., Maryland and Virginia, licensed clinical providers including Licensed Clinical Professional Counselors are ethically and legally qualified to utilize the current Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) in the process of diagnosis of ADHD and autism.
My assessments will include many forms of information gathering, such as, a full social and developmental history, self-report inventories/questionnaires, and thorough interview session(s) using neurodiversity affirming, evidence based diagnostic protocol - but it does not include neuropsychological testing. My evaluations are intentionally limited in their scope: Diagnostic Evaluations for autism and/or ADHD are for the sole purpose of evaluating and identifying/diagnosing autism and ADHD.
Without a psychological evaluation and psychological testing, is the identification/diagnosis VALID?
YES. Licensed Clinical Professional Counselors (LCPCs) with supervised training and experience in clinical evaluation and assessment are qualified and capable of identifying/diagnosing autism and/or ADHD in DC/MD/VA. Surprised? Isn’t it interesting that you may have heard something different? I’ll withhold my thoughts about the broken, oppressive, gatekeeping medical system for another article.
In addition to experience providing individual, group, and family psychotherapy, I have over 10 years of experience providing services that are gender inclusive and support the neurodiversity affirming framework.
But isn't only a psychologist able to diagnose Autism and/or ADHD?
It is a common misconception that autism and ADHD identification/diagnosis must be made by a psychologist and must utilize psychological testing. A Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, and other licensed professionals with appropriate assessment training, are legally and ethically able to identify/diagnose autism and ADHD in DC/MD/VA.
It’s important to note that psychological testing performed by a psychologist can be helpful for identifying co-occurring conditions (when they are suspected) and autistic people, regardless of age, may experience co-occurring mental health disorders, cognitive differences, language variations, and learning disabilities. Knowledge is empowering, so don't hesitate seeking that information. That said, full psychological testing/measurement of functioning is not always necessary OR relevant for folks seeking identification/diagnosis of autism or ADHD.
There are other myths we could write about, but I’ll pause here to keep things succinct. Using the resources available to learn about yourself is a noteworthy act, regardless of which kind of services you choose. Self-knowledge is powerful and a human right. And if you’re curious to continue this path, contact me.
