Adult Diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorder and Asperger's Disorder

The diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder (ASD), sometimes referred to as "Asperger's Disorder" can be very difficult for a family practitioner  due to the amount of time and the instruments and tools used to complete a comprehensive examination.

While many people make a determination by filling out an on-line form, the diagnsis is actually far more complex. In British Columbia an "offical" diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder, especially high functioning autism which until recently was referred to as Asperger's Disorder - sometimes also diagnosed as "non-Verbal LEarning Disorder" requires several specific tests. For children under six a team is required, including a psychologist, physician and a speech pathologist. The reason a team is required is that autism can often look like other disorders, and other disorders can often look just like autism. Here the Ministry of Children and Families also requires specific tests be used. These include AT LEAST the ADOS- Autism Diagnossit Observation System, which is a procedural test that looks at current symptoms and behaviours, and the ADI-R, the Autism Diagnositic Interview Revised, which is a highly structured history. These are necessary for recognition of ASD by schools and the ministry.

When assessing/testing adult I use these same tests, as an autism diagnosis in BC can be used for obtaining tax credits, social services and most often accomodations at school, college, university and the workplace.

In addition to these specific tests and procedures I also administer a series of neuropsychological tests and personality assessments in order to rule out other possible causes of the symptoms. Additionally individuals with autism spectrum disorder/ adult Asperger's can also have co-morbid disorders, such as depression, anxiety, OCD and ADHD. This comprehensive look at your symptoms and hisotry helps guide treatment choices.

The cost of such an assessment is $1,200-1,600, depending upon the complexity. Regretfully, these costs are not covered by provincial MSP (medical Service Plan) but some costs may be covered by your extended health care plan.

My schedule allows me to see most individuals who are seeking an assessment for adult autism spectrum disorder within 3-4 weeks, as I try not to schedule out more than 4-6 weeks in advance, and prioritize adult autism spectrum disorder assessments as there are few professionals in the lower mainland with the ability or experience necessary to do these assessments.

For more information on adult autism spectrum disorder assessments please visit my web page and contact me by phone or by completing the form on the web page. I am a Registered Psychologist in British Columbia with over 25 years experience in the field of autism, including working as a special education teacher for students with autism spectrum disorder, as a school district behaviour management specialist and as a provincial autism consultant. I have also worked as a rehabilitation psychologist and neuropsychologist with adults returning to the workplace. This hands on experience with individuals across the spectrum of ages and development provides me with a unique set of skills and knowledge base.

Web page:  www.relatedminds.com
http://www.relatedminds.com/autism/
http://www.relatedminds.com/adult-autism-and-aspergers-disorder/