Autism is a neurodevelopmental difference that can influence communication, social connection, sensory processing, routines, interests, and the way a person experiences the world. Autism presents differently from person to person, and autistic traits can become more or less noticeable at different stages of life.

Greater awareness and understanding of autism have led more people to seek evaluation, including adolescents and adults who may recognize autistic traits in themselves later in life. An autism evaluation is not about identifying what is “wrong” with someone. Instead, it can provide greater understanding of an individual's strengths, needs, communication style, and ways of experiencing the world.

You or your adolescent may benefit from an evaluation if you notice:

• Differences in eye contact, facial expressions, gestures, or other forms of nonverbal communication
• Sensory differences, including heightened or reduced sensitivity to sounds, lights, textures, smells, movement, or other sensations
• A preference for predictable routines, structure, or knowing what to expect
• Repetitive movements or sensory-regulating behaviors, such as rocking, hand movements, pacing, or fidgeting
• Feeling exhausted or overwhelmed after social interactions or periods of having to adapt to environments that do not meet one's sensory or communication needs
• Challenges with executive functioning, such as transitioning between activities, organizing tasks, managing time, or getting started
• A history of feeling different from peers or needing to consciously learn or rehearse social behaviors

These characteristics are not inherently negative and may also be connected with strengths such as creativity, focused attention, persistence, pattern recognition, and deep knowledge of areas of interest.

Support for autistic individuals should focus on quality of life, self-understanding, autonomy, and reducing barriers, not on changing someone to appear less autistic. Therapy can provide a supportive space to explore anxiety, relationships, communication, executive functioning, self-advocacy, emotional regulation, and other areas that may affect daily life.

A comprehensive evaluation with a qualified clinician can help adolescents and adults better understand their experiences and identify strategies, accommodations, and supports that align with their individual goals.

Please contact us to schedule an appointment or learn more about autism evaluation and support for adolescents and adults.