COMPREHENSIVE AUTISM ASSESSMENTS FOR ADULTS
Autism in adults is generally characterized by difficulty in emotional reciprocity and understanding relationships. At Constellation Psychology, we follow a specialized process for diagnosing and assessing autism in adults. We focus on giving adults specialized care and guidance. Like all other people, autistic people also have a wide range of strengths and weaknesses. The assessment processes that we use help individuals realize their potential. They can also help you understand the extent of the problem that you are facing. We offer psychological services in Calgary and surrounding areas.
WHAT IS AUTISM SPECTRUM DISORDER?
According to the DSM-5, an autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is manifested by persistent deficits in social communication and social interaction across multiple contexts, as manifested by the following, currently or by history:
This may include failure of normal back-and-forth conversation; abnormalities in eye contact and body language, a lack of facial expressiveness, an absence of interest in peers, difficulty in sharing imaginative play or in making friends, and difficulty adjusting one's behaviour to suit various social contexts.
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is also manifested by restricted, repetitive patterns of behaviour, interests, or activities, as manifested by at least two of the following:
Stereotyped or repetitive use of objects or speech
Insistence on sameness, inflexible
Highly restricted, fixated interests
For additional resources about autism in Calgary, visit The Ability Hub.
THE ASSESSMENT PROCESS
A typical autism assessment requires 14 hours and begins with an initial online intake appointment, during which background information is gathered, assessment process is planned, and consent is reviewed. It also includes administering the following measures:
Academic achievement (WIAT-4)
Attention and concentration, if needed (BASC-3, CAARS-2, CPT, CATA, IVA-2, DIVA-5)
Executive functioning (BRIEF-2A)
Autism Measures (SRS-2, ADI-R, ADOS-II)