An autism assessment is a series of conversations and activities with healthcare professionals. During these meetings, they learn about how you think, communicate, and experience the world.
In this guide, we’ll go through:
- What to bring to your assessment
- How to track your daily experiences
- Ways to gather helpful information
- Common questions and concerns
- Tips from others who have been through the process
Everyone’s path to assessment is different, and that’s completely normal. We’re here to share information that can make your preparation easier.
What an Autism Assessment Involves
Types of Assessments
We want to walk through the main parts of an autism assessment. Getting familiar with these components helps reduce uncertainty about the process.
Diagnostic Interview
- A conversation about our life experiences, development, and daily challenges
- Questions about early childhood, relationships, and how we handle different situations
- Discussion of our sensory preferences and communication style
Behavioral Observation
- The specialist watches how we interact and communicate
- They notice our body language, eye contact, and facial expressions
- Some might ask us to complete specific tasks or activities
Cognitive Assessments
- Short exercises to understand how we process information
- Problem-solving activities
- Memory and attention tasks
Sensory Processing Evaluation
- Questions about our reactions to sounds, textures, lights, and smells
- Discussion about any sensitivities we experience
- Information about how we manage sensory input
Duration and Format
Most adult autism assessments take between 2 to 4 hours. Some centers break this up into multiple visits, while others do everything in one session.
- Single session format: One longer appointment covering all assessment components
- Multiple session format: Several shorter appointments spread over a few weeks
- Telehealth options: Some parts can happen through video calls
| Assessment Component | Purpose | Typical Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Initial Interview | To gather qualitative information about the individual’s history, strengths and challenges | 60-90 minutes |
| Cognitive Assessment | To measure the individual’s intellectual capacity | 1-2 hours |
| Adaptive Behavior Assessment | To evaluate the individual’s practical life skills | 30-60 minutes |
| Diagnostic Observation | To observe the individual’s behavior in a controlled environment | 1-2 hours |
| Mental Health Evaluation | To evaluate for co-occurring psychiatric disorders | 1-2 hours |
| Medical Evaluation | To identify any underlying medical conditions that may be contributing to the individual’s symptoms | 1-2 hours |
| Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule (ADOS) | To assess communication, social interaction, and imaginative use of materials for individuals suspected of having autism | 40-60 minutes |
| Social Responsiveness Scale (SRS) | To measure the severity of social impairment associated with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) | 15-20 minutes |
| Vineland-II (Vineland Adaptive Behavior Scales) | To measure communication, daily living, socialization, and motor skills | 1 hour |
| Autism Spectrum Quotient (AQ) | To measure the degree to which adults with normal intelligence have traits associated with the autistic spectrum | 15-20 minutes |
We can ask the assessment center about their specific format when we schedule. They’ll let us know if we need to plan for one long session or multiple shorter visits.
Gathering Your Medical and Personal History
Essential Medical Records
We recommend collecting medical records before the assessment. Having these documents ready can make the process smoother.
- Reports from prior mental health evaluations
- Notes from childhood doctors’ visits
- Current medication list
- Past therapy records
- School evaluations or IEP documents
Personal Development History
Many assessment providers ask about early life experiences. It helps to write down memories about:
- How we played with other kids
- Making friends in school
- Ways we handled changes in routine
- Interests and activities we really focused on
- School experiences – both good and hard parts
- Jobs we’ve had and how they went
Family History
Information about our relatives can be relevant. We can ask family members about:
- Similar traits in parents, siblings, or other relatives
- Family members with autism diagnoses
- Other conditions like ADHD, anxiety, or depression in the family
- How relatives describe our early childhood
If getting certain records seems hard, we can make a list of what we remember. The assessment team knows that old records aren’t always available.
Taking notes about these topics before the assessment helps us remember important details when we’re there. We can bring a written timeline or bullet-point list to reference.
Documenting Current Behaviors and Challenges
Social Communication
Let’s look at the types of social communication patterns we might want to document before our assessment. Many of us notice specific ways we handle conversations and relationships.
Conversation Difficulties
- Times we find it hard to join ongoing conversations
- Moments when we talk a lot about topics we like
- Situations where we miss social cues
- How we respond to small talk
Non-verbal Communication
- Eye contact comfort level
- Hand gestures we use or don’t use
- Facial expressions others have commented on
- Body language that feels natural to us
Relationship Patterns
- How we make and keep friends
- Ways we prefer to socialize
- Times we feel most comfortable with others
- Social situations that drain our energy
Sensory Experiences
Our sensory experiences can vary greatly. Here’s what we can track:
- Sound: Notes about loud noises, background sounds, or music that bother us
- Light: Reactions to bright lights, fluorescent lighting, or screen time
- Textures: Clothing materials we avoid or prefer
- Temperature: How we react to heat, cold, or temperature changes
Daily Living
Our daily activities often show patterns worth noting:
Executive Functioning
- Task organization methods
- Time management approaches
- Decision-making processes
- Ways we handle changes in plans
Routines and Interests
- Daily schedules we follow
- Topics we know a lot about
- Activities that help us feel calm
- Self-soothing movements or behaviors
Taking notes about these areas helps create a clear picture for the assessment. We can use our phone, a notebook, or any method that works for us to track these
Collecting School Records and Past Evaluations
School records and past evaluations can provide valuable information during an autism assessment. Let’s go through what documents might be useful and how we can gather them.
Educational Documents
Old school records can show patterns in our learning and behavior over time. These papers often have details we might not remember clearly now.
- Report cards with teacher comments about social interactions and classroom behavior
- IEP (Individualized Education Program) or 504 plans that show past accommodations
- Notes from parent-teacher meetings
- Documentation of any special education services
- Records of testing accommodations or modifications
Previous Assessments
Many of us have had other evaluations in the past. These can give helpful background information to the autism assessment team.
- Psychological or neuropsychological testing results
- Speech and language evaluations
- Occupational therapy assessments
- Reports from counselors or therapists
- Medical records related to developmental concerns
How to Request Records
- Contact your old schools’ administrative offices
- Fill out records request forms – most schools have these
- Ask previous healthcare providers for copies of evaluations
- Check if your parents kept copies of any old reports
If some records aren’t available, that’s okay. We can work with whatever documentation we can find. Even a few old report cards or evaluation reports can be helpful.
Preparing a Symptoms Timeline
Creating a timeline of autism-related experiences helps make assessment discussions more organized. We can break this down into different life stages.
Childhood Years (0-12)
Key Developmental Milestones
- When we first walked and talked
- How we interacted with toys
- Our reactions to changes in routine
- Early communication patterns
Social Challenges
- Making and keeping friends
- Group activities at school
- Family gatherings
- Playing with other kids
Behavioral Patterns
- Repetitive movements or actions
- Special interests or collections
- Daily routines and rituals
- Reactions to loud noises or bright lights
Teen Years (13-18)
Social Experiences
- Friend groups and social circles
- Dating experiences or interests
- School social events
- Communication with teachers
Academic Performance
- Favorite and challenging subjects
- Study habits
- Group project experiences
- Organization skills
Sensory Issues
- Reactions to textures
- Sound sensitivities
- Light preferences
- Food preferences or aversions
Adult Years
Workplace Experiences
- Job interview patterns
- Office social dynamics
- Task management styles
- Work environment preferences
Relationship Patterns
- Friend maintenance
- Romantic relationships
- Family dynamics
- Social energy levels
Coping Methods
- Stress management techniques
- Daily routines
- Rest and recovery needs
- Social battery limits
Writing down specific examples for each category makes it easier to remember during the assessment. Old photos, school reports, or conversations with family members can help fill in memory gaps.
What to Bring to Your Assessment
We know assessments can feel overwhelming, so we’ve made a simple list of what to bring. Having these items ready helps make the process go more smoothly.
Required Documentation
- A valid photo ID (driver’s license, passport, or state ID)
- Current insurance card and any related paperwork
- Referral letters from healthcare providers
Supporting Materials
These items can help paint a clearer picture during the assessment:
- Notes about symptoms you’ve noticed
- Journal entries describing your experiences
- Any past evaluations or medical records
- School records or work performance reviews
- Notes from family members about childhood behaviors
Comfort Items
The assessment process can take several hours. We recommend bringing items that help you feel comfortable:
- Stim toys like fidget cubes or stress balls
- Noise-canceling headphones if sounds bother you
- Soft, loose-fitting clothes
- Water bottle
- Snacks
- Something to read during waiting periods
It’s fine to bring a support person with you. They can stay in the waiting room or join you for parts of the assessment if the provider allows it.
Make a checklist of these items the day before. Put everything in one bag or folder so it’s ready to go.
Managing Assessment Day Anxiety
Preparation Strategies
We find it helpful to get familiar with where we’re going before the big day. Some of us like to do a practice run to the assessment location. This can make the actual day feel less overwhelming.
- Check the route on Google Maps
- Find out where to park
- Look up photos of the building online
- Time how long the journey takes
Schedule Planning
Planning our schedule carefully helps reduce stress. We can build in extra time around the assessment.
- Arrive 20-30 minutes early
- Clear our calendar for the whole day
- Set alarms with plenty of buffer time
Support Person Options
Many of us bring someone we trust to the assessment. They can help with:
- Driving if we feel nervous
- Sitting in the waiting room
- Taking notes during the assessment
- Remembering details we might forget
Coping Techniques
Simple breathing exercises can help when we feel overwhelmed. One basic method is breathing in for 4 counts, holding for 4, then out for 4.
Grounding Methods
- Name 5 things we can see
- Touch 4 different textures
- Notice 3 sounds around us
- Find 2 things we can smell
- Focus on 1 taste
Comfort Items
Many of us bring small items that help us feel calm:
- Stress balls or fidget toys
- Favorite sweater or scarf
- Water bottle
- Headphones
- Small snacks
Self-Care Planning
Taking breaks during the assessment is okay. We can:
- Ask for short pauses when needed
- Use the bathroom between sections
- Take sips of water
- Stand up and stretch
Managing Sensory Input
We can prepare for different sensory experiences:
- Wear comfortable clothes
- Bring sunglasses if lights are bright
- Use earplugs if sounds are too much
- Choose seated positions away from air vents
Recovery Time
After the assessment, we might feel tired. It helps to:
-
- Plan a quiet evening
- Order food or prepare meals ahead
- Turn off our phone if needed
- Rest in a calm space
Questions to Ask During Your Assessment
Process Questions
During the assessment, we might feel overwhelmed and forget important questions. Here are some key process-related questions we can ask:
- When can we expect to receive the results?
- Will we get the results in writing, by phone, or during a follow-up meeting?
- What specific documents will be provided after the assessment?
- Can we get extra copies of the documentation for work or school?
Support Questions
Getting information about available support is really important. These questions can help us understand what comes next:
- Are there local autism support services?
- What types of workplace accommodations might be helpful?
- Can you recommend any support groups in the area?
- Are there online communities you know about?
- What resources are available for families and partners?
Next Steps
Understanding the path forward helps reduce anxiety. Here are questions about what happens after the assessment:
- Will we need any additional evaluations?
- How often should we schedule follow-up appointments?
- Are there specific professionals we should connect with?
- What strategies can help with daily challenges?
- How can we make the best use of this diagnosis?
It’s okay to write these questions down and bring them to the assessment. Many adults keep a small notebook or use their phone to track questions as they come up before the appointment.
After the Assessment: Next Steps
Getting our assessment results can bring up many feelings. The report we receive will likely contain several key parts:
- DSM-5 criteria used for diagnosis
- Observations from testing sessions
- Scores from any questionnaires
- Written summary of findings
Reading the Report
Reports can be long and complex. We can ask someone we trust to help us understand the details. Many of us find it helpful to read through it several times, taking notes on parts that seem important.
Support Planning
Whether we receive an autism diagnosis or not, the assessment process often points us toward helpful resources:
- Mental health professionals who understand autism
- Occupational therapy options
- Local support groups
- Online communities
Workplace Considerations
Some of us might want to request workplace adjustments. Common options include:
- Noise-reducing headphones
- Flexible work hours
- Written instructions
- Quiet workspace options
Self-Advocacy
Moving forward, we get to decide who we tell about our assessment results. This is a personal choice that can be different for each situation.
- Work: Consider what accommodations might help before discussing
- Family: Share based on your comfort level
- Friends: Tell those who will be supportive
Legal Protections
In many countries, autism qualifies as a protected condition under disability laws. This means we have rights regarding:
- Employment protections
- Educational accommodations
- Housing rights
- Healthcare access
Local autism organizations often maintain lists of resources and can connect us with others who share similar experiences. Many offer both in-person and online
Resources and Support
Finding good resources and support can make a big difference when preparing for an autism assessment. We’ve put together some helpful options that many adults in the autism community use.
Online Communities
Online spaces let us connect with others who understand what we’re going through. Here are some popular communities:
- Wrong Planet – A large forum where autistic adults share experiences and advice
- Autistic Self Advocacy Network – Run by autistic people, for autistic people
- Reddit r/autism – Active discussion group with helpful members
Professional Support
Working with professionals who understand adult autism can be valuable. Some options include:
- Autism specialists who focus on adult diagnosis
- Occupational therapists who help with daily life skills
- Local support groups that meet in person or online
Educational Resources
Learning more about autism can help us understand ourselves better. Here are some ways to learn:
- Books: Many autistic authors share their experiences and insights
- Podcasts: Listen to autism discussions during daily activities
- Websites: Find current information from reliable sources
| Resource Type | Name/Title | Key Benefits |
|---|---|---|
| Online Screening Test | AQ Test – Autism Spectrum Quotient | Simple, free, can be done at home, generates immediate results |
| Psychologist/Specialist | Licensed Clinical Psychologist | Provides professional diagnosis, helps navigate next steps, provides referrals if necessary |
| Neuropsychologist | Programs at Local Hospitals | Comprehensive assessment, may offer detailed recommendations and resources |
| Online Community | Reddit: r/Aspergers and r/Autism | Connects people for mutual support, anecdotal advice, shared experiences |
| Web Guides | Autism Speaks’ First Concern to Action Tool Kit | Detailed information, step-by-step guide, free to access |
| Not-for-profit Organization | National Autistic Society (UK) | Offers a variety of aid, including diagnosis and post-diagnosis support |
| Self-help Book | “Very Late Diagnosis of Asperger Syndrome (Autism Spectrum Disorder)” by Philip Wylie | Provides insight and coping strategies for late-diagnosed individuals |
| Webinar | Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule (ADOS) Training | Professional training, increases understanding of the diagnostic process |
| Diagnostic Center | Center for Autism and Related Disorders (CARD) | Provides support throughout evaluation and diagnosis process |
Remember: These resources work differently for each person. It’s fine to try different ones until we find what fits best for us.
