Should I formally assess my neurodivergence?

This is a personal decision, and there are many factors to consider.* I guide individuals to think about their current challenges, support needs, and goals. We then look at the various routes to support (including assessment as one of many options). It is helpful to talk through the pros and cons of each option, and to consider which route would best address current challenges and goals.

Significant distress (e.g., overwhelm, anxiety, exhaustion) and / or impairment (e.g., struggles engaging in daily life) may be cues that either assessment or increased support would be beneficial.

*Note that this is not clinical or medical advice. I encourage you to reach out to a medical provider for assistance in navigating (e.g., family doctor, therapist, or myself for a consultation).

What are some alternative assessment options?

Finding the right fit for an assessment is an important and individualized process. I may or may not be the right fit for you, based on a variety of different factors. My top priority is providing information so that individuals are aware of their options, and can make informed decisions for their own healthcare.

Please note that I cannot endorse any of the following options to be the right fit for you. I encourage you to explore these options, to do your own research, and to consult with a medical provider for assistance in navigating.

There may be avenues to assessment through public healthcare. You may wish to discuss this with a primary health provider (e.g., family doctor, nurse practitioner, psychiatrist).

CAMH is a publicly-funded option for adult autism assessment:
https://www.camh.ca/en/patients-and-families/programs-and-services/adult-neurodevelopmental-services

Kids Inclusive is a publicly-funded option for child and adolescent autism assessment*:
https://kidsinclusive.ca/services-and-programs/community-based-rehabilitation-services-2/

*Note: Kids Inclusive offers services for the region of Ontario that Kingston is located in (i.e., KFLA and LLG). If you are located in another region, inquire about your local Autism Hub to find the equivalent.

There are other private practice options that offer assessment. Here is a list that could serve as a starting point:
https://www.autismontario.com/programs-services/adults/adult-diagnosis

Neuroaffirming Resources:

Here are a couple of resources that could serve as a starting point for learning about neurodivergence:

-Book: ”Unmasking Autism” by Dr. Devon Price

-Podcast: “Divergent Conversations” by Dr. Megan Anna Neff and Patrick Casale

-Website: “Neurodivergent Insights” by Dr. Megan Anna Neff

-Social Media: “NeuroWild” and “Lived Experience Educator”

-Here is a colleague and I presenting on neurodivergence and specifically autism. This presentation is geared to parents of autistic children:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LJKoTzJvQZY