Understanding who you are is a fundamental human need. For many people exploring whether they might be autistic, a formal assessment can provide clarity, validation, and a pathway to better support. If you've been wondering whether autism might explain some of your experiences or if you should pursue an assessment, here are some compelling reasons to consider it.
Many people live for years with a sense that they experience the world differently, without knowing why. You might:
An assessment can help untangle these questions and provide a clearer picture of your neurotype—whether that turns out to be autism or something else.
People who discover they're autistic often describe the experience as finding the missing puzzle piece that explains so much about their lives. An assessment can help you understand why you might:
This self-knowledge isn't about labeling or limiting yourself—it's about recognising your authentic neurotype and understanding how your brain naturally works.
Being autistic brings many strengths that are often overlooked in a society built primarily for neurotypical minds. An assessment process with a neuroaffirming psychologist can help identify your unique cognitive advantages, which might include:
Understanding these strengths can help you leverage them more effectively in your personal and professional life.
Everyone has different support needs. An assessment can help pinpoint specific areas where accommodations might make life easier, such as:
A formal diagnosis can open doors to practical supports, including:
These accommodations aren't about changing who you are—they're about creating environments that allow you to thrive as your authentic self.
A diagnosis can potentially provide access to funding for therapy and other supports. This might include:
One of the most powerful benefits of identifying as autistic is connecting with the autistic community. Many people describe the profound relief of finally meeting others who think and experience the world similarly. These connections can reduce feelings of isolation and provide valuable peer support and understanding.
For many late-diagnosed autistic adults, an assessment provides a new lens through which to view their life experiences.
Challenges that were previously attributed to personal failings can be understood in the context of different neurological wiring.
This reframing often brings significant emotional healing and self-compassion.
It's worth noting that the assessment process can be valuable even if the conclusion is that you're not autistic. The process often involves comprehensive evaluation of various cognitive, sensory, and emotional patterns that can provide insights into your needs and experiences regardless of diagnosis.
If you decide to pursue assessment, consider:
Remember that you are the expert on your own experiences. The assessment process should feel collaborative and affirming of your perspective.
Many people exploring autism may also recognise traits of ADHD in themselves—and for good reason. Research increasingly shows significant overlap between these neurotypes, with many individuals meeting criteria for both conditions. A comprehensive assessment can help untangle which traits might be related to autism, which to ADHD, and how they might interact in your unique neurocognitive profile. Understanding this intersection can be particularly valuable, as some support strategies differ between the conditions, while others work well for both. Many people discover that understanding both aspects of their neurotype provides a more complete picture of their experiences and needs.
Deciding whether to pursue an autism assessment is deeply personal. Whether you're fairly certain you're autistic or just beginning to explore the possibility, an assessment can provide valuable insights and access to support. Many people find that simply having their experiences validated and understood is tremendously helpful, regardless of the specific diagnosis.
At Exhale Psychology Centre we offer person-centered, inclusive, and neuroaffirming assessments to support people to identify their neurotype (autism, ADHD, or AuDHD). Assessments can be conducted face-to-face at our Brisbane practice or via telehealth. You can find out more about our assessment process here.
We do not offer a one size fits all but instead see each client as a whole person requiring an individualised approach.
View our servicesOur psychologists and dietitian are skilled in the areas of neurodivergence, eating disorders, & complex trauma.
Meet the teamOur approach is neurodiversity affirming, trauma-informed, weight neutral, and intersectional.
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