What to expect from an Autism assessment

Seeking an autism assessment can feel like a brave step.

Many people who seek an assessment have been wondering for years whether they might be autistic. Some have experienced long-standing mental health challenges, with various diagnoses that never quite seemed to fit. Others may have found themselves resonating deeply with neurodivergent content on social media, leading to new questions about identity and self-understanding.

Considering an autism assessment can be a vulnerable time. It’s important to find a clinician and a practice that feel like the right fit — one where you feel respected, heard, and safe.

In recent years, there has been a welcome shift toward neuroaffirming care. Neuroaffirming refers to an approach that respects, validates, and supports neurodivergent ways of thinking, feeling, and being — without trying to “fix,” “normalize,” or “cure” them.

A neuroaffirming autism assessment typically means:

• The clinician uses affirming language (e.g., “traits” instead of “symptoms,” “support needs” instead of “deficits”).

• Assessment tools are collaborative, non-pathologising, and focused on understanding your lived experience.

• Diagnosis is framed as a form of identity and self-knowledge, rather than illness or disorder.

• The clinician understands the impact of masking, trauma, and burnout.

• The clinician may also have lived experience of neurodivergence themselves.

At Kin Clinical Psychology, our autism assessments are designed to be neuroaffirming from start to finish. We use the Monteiro Interview Guidelines for Diagnosing the Autism Spectrum (MIGDAS), a qualitative tool that feels conversational and collaborative. Many clients describe the experience as “just having a chat.” The MIGDAS is especially sensitive to masking and trauma and is well-suited to individuals who may not feel seen by traditional assessment tools.

Whether you're seeking clarity, affirmation, or a deeper understanding of yourself, you're welcome here.

If you're considering an autism assessment and want a process that honours your story, strengths, and needs, we invite you to reach out. At Kin, we offer a warm, affirming space where you will be understood and respected — not pathologised.