Adult Autism & ADHD Assessment in Seattle, Washington
Finally get the clarity & support you’ve been looking for.
What is an Adult Autism and ADHD Assessment?
An adult autism and ADHD assessment is a comprehensive process designed to help individuals determine whether they have characteristics or traits of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) or Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). This assessment involves a combination of self-reports and standardized tests to evaluate how an individual’s behaviors, emotions, and cognitive patterns might align with these neurodevelopmental conditions.
Autism and ADHD are typically diagnosed in childhood, but it’s increasingly recognized that many adults with these conditions were never properly assessed or diagnosed earlier in life. As a result, some adults may go through life without fully understanding why they struggle in certain areas, especially in social situations, professional environments, and relationships.
Seeking an assessment in adulthood can be a powerful first step toward understanding oneself better, improving life satisfaction, and addressing underlying challenges.
Why Seek an Adult Autism and ADHD Assessment?
Struggling with Emotional Regulation and Sensory Overload
If you experience intense emotions that seem to come out of nowhere or find yourself overwhelmed by sensory stimuli, an autism or ADHD assessment can shed light on why this happens. These conditions often involve difficulties with emotional regulation and sensory processing, and understanding the root cause can help you develop strategies to cope.Challenges with Social Interactions
Many adults with autism or ADHD have difficulty interpreting social cues, engaging in back-and-forth conversations, or managing relationships. They may feel disconnected or misunderstood in social settings. An assessment can help you recognize patterns in social behavior and teach you skills to improve your social interactions, enhancing your sense of connection with others.Struggling to Stay Organized or Focused
If you frequently find yourself overwhelmed by tasks, having difficulty staying on track with projects, or struggling to complete tasks at work or in daily life, ADHD might be a contributing factor. An assessment can help you understand your attention patterns and develop strategies to improve organization, focus, and time management.Diagnosis of Unexplained Symptoms
You might be wondering why you have certain quirks or patterns of behavior that don’t seem to fit in with how others experience the world. If you've had difficulties with certain aspects of life (such as work, relationships, or day-to-day functioning) and are struggling to find answers, an assessment can give you clarity. It can help you understand why you think and act the way you do, offering insights that lead to a deeper sense of self-awareness.Misunderstanding of Past Experiences
Many adults who were not diagnosed with autism or ADHD as children often go through life feeling "different" or "off" in some way. They may have been misdiagnosed, overlooked, or simply labeled as quirky or difficult. An adult assessment can validate your experiences and help you understand how these traits have shaped your adult life.Seeking a Diagnosis for Better Treatment
A formal diagnosis of autism or ADHD can open up new opportunities for treatment. With a clearer understanding of your condition, you can explore various treatment options like therapy, medication, coaching, and lifestyle changes. It also provides a foundation for workplace accommodations or academic support if needed.Improving Relationships and Communication
If you’ve found it challenging to relate to others or communicate effectively, a diagnosis can be the key to unlocking new strategies for better interpersonal dynamics. Whether it’s with family, friends, or a partner, learning more about how your brain works can lead to healthier, more fulfilling relationships.
What Can an Adult Autism and ADHD Assessment Help With?
Understanding Your Strengths and Challenges: With an assessment, you gain insight into your unique strengths and areas of difficulty. It can help you see how you engage with the world and highlight areas where you can seek support or accommodations.
Improved Self-Awareness: By learning more about autism or ADHD, you can gain a better understanding of yourself. This self-awareness can lead to more confidence, self-compassion, and acceptance, empowering you to take control of your life and make choices that align with your true self.
Better Coping Mechanisms: An assessment helps uncover patterns of thinking, behaving, and reacting. With this information, you can work with a professional to develop healthier coping strategies for managing stress, emotions, and everyday tasks.
Improved Quality of Life: Whether it's reducing feelings of overwhelm, improving your ability to focus, or feeling more confident in social settings, understanding autism or ADHD can lead to practical changes that improve your overall quality of life.
Support for Relationships: Knowing about autism or ADHD can provide clarity in personal and professional relationships. With the right tools, you can navigate misunderstandings, improve communication, and build healthier connections with others.
How is the Assessment Done?
The assessment for autism or ADHD in adults is typically a multi-step process, including:
Initial Interview: We will gather information about your background, history, and current struggles. You’ll discuss your childhood, your current symptoms, and how they affect your day-to-day life. This first meeting will take 2-3 hours.
Self-Report Questionnaires: These are often used to understand your symptoms and experiences in greater detail. They may ask about your attention span, social behavior, emotional regulation, and patterns of behavior.
Feedback Session: After the assessment is completed, I will give you feedback, including a potential diagnosis and recommendations for treatment.
Cost of Adult Autism & ADHD Assessment - $3,000
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Phase 1: Assessment
A comprehensive interview assessment. I will thoroughly review all assessments and interview findings to compile a detailed report for your review and feedback.
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Phase 2: Results & Next Steps
We’ll discuss the results together, review any diagnoses or recommendations, and outline personalized next steps based on your individual needs and goals