Autism Testing for Women

Autism Test For Women

Autism Testing for Women

There are biases inherent in Autism testing for women, that result in girls and women being underdiagnosed or misdiagnosed. The standard thinking on autism has been that a diagnosis of autism primarily presents in boys and men with the ratio of men to women being 4:1. There is currently no autism testing for women that uses biomarkers, so diagnosis is based on behavioral expression of core characteristics including the presence of social communication difficulties, impaired nonverbal behaviors, persistent interests, repetitive behaviors, sensory sensitivities, and difficulty adapting to changes in routine. Differences in diagnosis across gender are now thought to be due to differences in how the core characteristics of autism are expressed. Some of the same characteristics may be expressed differently based on gender.

Autistic girls and women have more social relationships which makes it appear that they do not struggle with social communication difficulties that interfere with relationship building. But autistic girls and women tend to have more conflict in their relationships, something that has recently been acknowledged. Some core characteristics look different in girls and women. They may have less intense repetitive behaviors, like twirling their hair instead of rocking back and forth.

Persistent interests look different in girls and women as well. They often have interests that are considered more socially acceptable, like an interest in recipes that initially does not seem to be more than a hobby. On closer examination, the woman who has an interest in recipes might have a collection of 2000 recipes that she files and organizes. She may be fluent in the biology of the herbs she uses, and may talk at length about recipes throughout history, share details of famous culinary dishes in different countries, and have in-depth knowledge about the preparation of food. Her interest may keep her up at night looking at recipes or researching the history of breakfasts across the world. She may avoid household chores, look up recipes and facts at work, and avoid socializing to engage in her persistent interest.

At Therapy Dynamics, we understand the unique experiences of women seeking answers about their neurotype. We provide neurodivergent-affirming autism evaluations for girls and women that are tailored to address these differences and help you gain clarity.

What to Look for in a Gender Affirming Evaluation

When searching for a girls and women autism test that meets the needs of both girls and women, look for an evaluator who is familiar with the differences in presentation across genders. At Therapy Dynamics, I offer a free 30-minute consultation so that you can ask questions about my experience and knowledge in this area.

Features of a Comprehensive Autism Evaluation
A good autism evaluation is designed to assess for symptoms of autism without offering a gender bias. The MIGDAS-2 used by Therapy Dynamics is a semi-structured interview that allows for individual differences in answers and does not rely on stereotypes. The most important feature of a gender affirming autism evaluation is not the tool being used, but the evaluator’s knowledge of different presentations and their ability to probe for those differences.

1. Include Comprehensive Assessments
  Autism often overlaps with conditions like ADHD, anxiety, depression, and other psychiatric disorders. In addition, certain psychiatric conditions can present like autism. A comprehensive evaluation should assess the criteria for an autism diagnosis, cognitive skills, adaptive living skills, and general mental health. At Therapy Dynamics, we use a range of tools, including but not limited to:
  - MIGDAS-2: A diagnostic interview specifically designed for neurodivergent individuals.
  - Social Responsiveness Scale (SRS-2): Evaluates social behaviors.

Adaptive Behavior Assessment System-Third Edition (ABAS-3): Assesses Adaptive Skills

- Reynolds Intellectual Assessment Scale-Second Edition (RIAS-2): Assesses IQ and Working Memory
- Personality Assessment Inventory (PAI): Mental health assessment
- In addition to these tests, specialized trauma inventories are available to evaluate trauma symptoms in adults.
Offers Remote Testing
Online testing offers convenience, especially for those who face geographic or logistical barriers to being evaluated. Since COVID-19, many assessment tools have been normed for use via Telehealth. This makes the process easier to manage, especially in children, who feel comfortable in their homes. Therapy Dynamics provides remote autism testing for girls and women in Minnesota, so you can complete the process from the comfort of your home.
Provides a Neurodivergent-Affirming Approach
It’s important to work with a provider who views autism as a neurotype, not a deficit. At Therapy Dynamics, we celebrate your unique strengths and differences, creating a supportive space for self-discovery.

Autism Testing for Women at Therapy Dynamics

At Therapy Dynamics, we aim to make the testing process accessible and empowering. Here’s how it works:

Free 30-Minute Consultation: Start with a conversation about your concerns and goals for testing.
Interview Intake: The assessment process begins with a 90 minute intake where we will talk about the traits of autism that fit for you as well as your social, medical, educational, psychiatric, and trauma histories.
Comprehensive Assessments: Using the assessment tools mentioned, we evaluate your experiences in a supportive, affirming way. Testing sessions include a 2-hour autism testing session with the MIGDAS-2 and an hour long cognitive testing session.
Feedback Session: After testing is complete, we will meet for a complete discussion of results complete with recommendations.
Detailed Report: You’ll receive a detailed written report that includes all of the results of your assessment. This can be used to access county services or support.

Why Get Tested for Autism as an Adult Woman?

Receiving an autism diagnosis as a woman can be life-changing. It’s not about labeling—it’s about understanding yourself. A diagnosis can help you:

Validate your experiences and gain clarity about your identity.
Connect with the autistic community and build meaningful relationships.
Access services and accommodations to support your mental health and well-being.
Learn strategies for thriving as a neurodivergent individual.

Even if your results indicate that you’re not autistic, the process can provide valuable insights into your mental health and guide you toward other areas of growth and recovery.

Why Get Tested for Autism in Childhood?

Receiving an autism diagnosis as a child can open the door to early intervention which may ultimately lead to better functioning into adulthood. A diagnosis can help your child:

Identify strengths and challenges guiding interventions and support..
A diagnosis can provide you with clarity about your child’s needs so that you can advocate for them.
A diagnosis opens the door for an IEP plan at school so that your child receives appropriate accommodations and support at school.
A formal diagnosis allows for you to plan for your child’s future more effectively.

Why Choose Therapy Dynamics for Autism in Women?

Therapy Dynamics is dedicated to helping girls and women uncover their neurodivergent identity in a supportive and empowering way. We provide:

Remote Testing for Children and Adults in Minnesota: Accessible from anywhere in the state.
Neurodivergent-Affirming Evaluations: Focusing on your strengths and experiences.
Comprehensive Assessments: Addressing autism, ADHD, executive functioning, and mental health.

We believe that autism is a neurotype, not a deficit. Our approach celebrates your individuality and helps you find the clarity you’ve been seeking.

Take the Next Step

If you’re searching for a provider knowledgeable in the different gender presentations in autism, Therapy Dynamics is here to support you. Our evaluations are tailored to address the unique ways autism presents in girls and women, offering you a clear path forward.

Schedule your remote autism evaluation today. Whether you’re in Minneapolis or a small rural town, we’re here to help you on your journey to self-discovery.

At Therapy Dynamics, we don’t see deficits—we see differences. Let’s uncover the unique ways you shine.