Autism Assessment

---

What are the causes of Autism and how is it diagnosed?

The exact cause of autism isn’t fully understood but is thought to involve genetic and environmental factors. Autism can be diagnosed in early childhood, often based on developmental assessments and observations by healthcare professionals. Early diagnosis and support can make a significant difference in learning and adapting.

What type of support and therapy interventions are available?

Interventions for autism are tailored to each individual and can include behavioural therapy, speech therapy, social skills training, and sometimes occupational therapy. Many people with autism lead fulfilling lives, and with the right support, they can thrive in a variety of environments.

What does an Autism assessment at BlueSky Psychology involve?

An autism assessment typically involves a combination of multiple methods to evaluate an individual’s behaviour, development, and communication skills.

Here’s an overview of what the process is likely to include:

1. Clinical Interview: The Psychologist will often start by interviewing the individual (if appropriate) and their parents or caregivers depending on their age to gather background information about development, behaviour, and any concerns. This may include asking about milestones, interests, and challenges.
2. Behavioural Observations: The Psychologist will observe the individual to assess social interaction, communication, and behaviour. They may look for specific traits associated with autism spectrum disorder (ASD).
3. Standardised Assessments: Various standardised tests and checklists are used to evaluate communication skills, social interactions, and repetitive behaviours. Assessments that are likely to be included in this battery of assessments include the Ritvo Autism Asperger Diagnostic Scale – Revised (RAADS-R), the Autism Spectrum Quotient (AQ-50) and the Self-Report Camouflaging of Autistic Traits Questionnaire (CAT-Q).
4. Developmental History: Gathering information about early childhood development is crucial. This can involve discussing the person’s early milestones, such as speech and social development.
5. Cognitive and Educational Assessments: Cognitive testing may be conducted to understand the individual’s strengths and weaknesses. Educational assessments may also look at learning abilities and challenges.
6. Collaboration with Other Professionals: Sometimes the assessment process involves collaboration with other Psychologists or other professionals, such as speech therapists or occupational therapists, to get a comprehensive view of the individual’s needs.
7. Feedback and Recommendations: After the assessment is complete, the Psychologist will provide feedback, discuss the findings, and if applicable, suggest next steps, such as further evaluations or interventions.

It’s important to note that the assessment process can vary based on age, the specific concerns being addressed, and the practices of the professionals involved. If you have particular concerns or questions or wish to book in for a comprehensive Autism Assessment by an experienced Psychologist, please contact us on 08 8212 3944 or via email on info@blueskypsychology.com.au

Book an Appointment

Can Autism be accompanied by other Diagnoses?

Yes, autism can often be accompanied by other diagnoses or conditions. This is known as comorbidity. Many individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) may also experience conditions such as:

1. Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD): Many people with autism also show symptoms of ADHD, which can affect their attention and impulse control.
2. Anxiety Disorders: Individuals with autism may experience various types of anxiety disorders, such as generalized anxiety disorder, social anxiety disorder, and others.
3. Depression: It’s not uncommon for individuals with autism to face depression, especially during adolescence and adulthood.
4. Learning Disabilities: Some individuals with autism may have specific learning disabilities that affect their academic performance.
5. Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD): OCD can occur alongside autism, leading to repetitive behaviours and obsessive thoughts.
6. Sensory Processing Disorders: Many individuals with autism may have difficulties with sensory processing, leading to heightened sensitivity to certain stimuli.
7. Speech and Language Disorders: Communication challenges are often part of the autism spectrum, which can also coincide with other speech or language issues.

The presence of additional diagnoses can vary widely among individuals with autism, and each person’s experience is unique. Comprehensive evaluation by a Psychologist can provide a better understanding and tailored support for those diagnosed with autism and any comorbid conditions. Contact us on info@blueskypsychology.com.au or call on 08 8212 3944 to arrange an assessment.

Can Autism appear differently in “High Masking” individuals?

Yes, autism can present quite differently in individuals who engage in high masking. Masking, in the context of autism, involves consciously or subconsciously suppressing or hiding autistic traits to fit into social expectations. This can make the condition less visible and lead to a unique presentation, particularly in high-masking individuals, including those with high-functioning autism.

How Masking Alters the Presentation of Autism:

1. Social Behaviour:

• High-masking individuals may learn and mimic social cues, such as making eye contact, smiling, and using appropriate facial expressions, even though these actions may not feel natural or intuitive.
• They might imitate the speech patterns, body language, and behaviours of neurotypical peers, making them appear more socially skilled than they feel internally.
• They may still struggle with understanding subtle social nuances, but these difficulties are less visible to others due to their efforts to adapt or “blend in.”

2. Communication:

• Many high-masking individuals consciously work to adjust their tone, volume, and language to match social expectations, which can mask difficulties with communication.
• They may avoid openly expressing their needs, opinions, or discomforts to prevent standing out or causing social disruptions, leading others to perceive them as more confident or capable than they actually feel.
• Literal thinking and difficulty understanding sarcasm or implied meanings might be hidden, as high-maskers might pretend to “get the joke” or laugh along, even if they don’t fully understand.

3. Stimming and Sensory Processing:

• Stimming (repetitive behaviours like hand-flapping, rocking, or fidgeting) is often suppressed or replaced with less noticeable forms, like quietly tapping fingers or bouncing feet.
• Sensory sensitivities may be hidden or ignored in social situations, making it seem like these individuals are not as affected by sensory input, though they may experience distress internally.
• They may manage sensory overload privately, leading to increased exhaustion, anxiety, or “meltdowns” when they are alone.

4. Emotional Regulation:

• High-masking individuals may put effort into suppressing their emotional responses in public, making them appear calm or unfazed.
• This can lead to “shutdowns” or emotional exhaustion later, as the constant self-control drains their resources.
• Anxiety and depression are more common in high-masking individuals, as constant masking can create emotional stress and a sense of disconnection from one’s authentic self.

5. Challenges in Diagnosis:

• Because high-masking individuals are often adept at adapting to social situations, their autistic traits may go unnoticed by professionals, family, and peers, leading to a later diagnosis or even a missed diagnosis.
• This is particularly true for girls and women, as societal expectations often pressure them to conform socially, which can lead to increased masking.

6. Internal Experience vs. External Behaviour:

• High-masking individuals may feel significant inner turmoil or frustration with social interactions, even though they appear to function well externally.
• They might experience confusion, self-doubt, or even imposter syndrome, feeling as though they are “faking” normalcy rather than genuinely fitting in.

The Consequences of High Masking

While masking can help individuals navigate social situations and reduce immediate discomfort, it can also lead to long-term issues such as:

• Burnout: The constant effort to mask can lead to mental and emotional exhaustion, often referred to as “autistic burnout.”
• Mental Health Issues: Increased anxiety, depression, and even trauma are common in high-masking individuals, as they may feel isolated or misunderstood.
• Difficulty with Self-Identity: Constant masking may lead to a loss of authentic self-identity, where individuals struggle to distinguish between their true selves and their “masked” personas.

Understanding these unique challenges is essential for supporting high-masking individuals, as they may need specific coping strategies, self-acceptance support, and spaces where they feel safe to express their authentic traits.

BlueSky Psychology Level 10, 108 King William Street, Adelaide, South Australia, 5000. Phone 08 8212 3944