What Are Autism Assessments?

Autism assessments are comprehensive evaluations designed to understand whether social communication differences, sensory processing patterns, and behavioral characteristics align with autism spectrum traits.

These assessments explore how you experience and interact with the world, honoring your unique neurological makeup.

At IMPACT, our autism assessments go beyond diagnostic checklists. We use evidence-based tools while prioritizing your lived experience and self-advocacy. Our approach is grounded in neurodiversity-affirming principles that recognize autism as a neurological difference rather than a deficit to be corrected.

KEY BENEFITS

Who Can Benefit From An Autism Assessment?

Autism assessment can provide clarity and validation for individuals at all ages. You may benefit from autism assessment at IMPACT if:

We particularly support late-diagnosed individuals, including women, girls, and high-masking people whose autism may have been overlooked.

You've always felt different but couldn't explain why

You have intense interests or need for routine and predictability

You experience sensory sensitivities or overwhelm

Social interactions feel exhausting or confusing

You've been masking or camouflaging to fit in

You've received other diagnoses that don't fully capture your experience

You're a parent noticing unique traits in your child

IMPACT's Approach to Autism Assessments

At IMPACT, we combine gold-standard diagnostic tools with deep respect for autistic voices and experiences. Our assessments are collaborative, culturally sensitive, and designed to affirm rather than pathologize neurodivergent traits.

Throughout the process, we create a sensory-friendly, non-judgmental environment where you can be authentically yourself.

Our assessment process includes:

Comprehensive Developmental History: Understanding your early development and current functioning
Standardized Diagnostic Tools: Including ADOS-2 and ADI-R when appropriate
Self-Report and Clinical Interview: Centering your own understanding of your experiences
Therapeutic Assessment (TA): A collaborative approach that honors your goals and questions
Sensory and Communication Evaluation: Understanding your unique processing patterns

Key Benefits of An Autism Assessment at IMPACT

Assessments helps you move from "What's wrong with me?" to "This is how my brain works, and that's okay."

Validation and understanding of your neurodivergent identity

Clear diagnostic clarity based on your lived experience

Documentation for educational, workplace, or healthcare needs

Identification of both challenges and remarkable strengths

Connection to autism-affirming resources and community

Comprehensive recommendations for support and accommodations

UNDERSTANDING THE PROCESS

Your voice matters in your assessment.

Our autism assessment process typically spans several weeks and includes multiple components.

We begin by understanding your story, move through structured observations and interviews, and conclude with collaborative feedback where you help interpret the results.

LEARN ABOUT OUR ASSESSMENT PROCESS

Frequently Asked Questions

Absolutely. Many adults, particularly women and high-masking individuals, receive their first autism diagnosis later in life. It's never too late to understand yourself better.
We approach autism as a neurological difference, not a disorder. Our goal is to help you understand and embrace your authentic self, not to label or pathologize.
Yes. Autism exists across a wide spectrum, and many autistic people live independently while still benefiting from understanding and support.
Adult autism assessment recognizes masking, compensation strategies, and the way autism presents across the lifespan, particularly in those who've learned to camouflage.
Yes. Our comprehensive assessments provide documentation that can support requests for workplace accommodations, educational supports, or healthcare services.