Comprehensive Autism Testing and Diagnosis for Adults in Texas
The Problem with Autism Diagnosis: Tendencies to miss or misdiagnose
Virtual Autism Testing & Diagnosis in Texas
Did you know Autism (Autism Spectrum Disorder) affects about 1 in 36 children and 1 in 45 adults in the U.S.? Yet, autism often goes undiagnosed in adults, especially women (or those AFAB) and minorities. Misunderstood traits, stigma, and outdated practices can lead to confusion and misdiagnosis. Autism is lifelong, though many may believe they’ve “outgrown” it or developed coping skills that make its impact less noticeable over time.
As an Autism Specialist (and a late-diagnosed neurodivergent [ADHD] person myself!), I’m committed to offering accessible, accurate autism diagnoses so you can better understand yourself and access the support you need to thrive.
Our Take on Autism:
Autism reflects unique neurological differences (how the brain and body interact) that shape how people experience the world and connect with others. In the right environment, these differences can be strengths—some even call their autism a “superpower.” But in environments that don’t meet their needs, these differences can become disabling. It’s the mismatch, not the individual, that creates barriers. That’s why we focus on reducing those barriers, not fundamentally changing who you are.
Ready to learn more? Apply for virtual Autism testing today and take the first step toward understanding and embracing yourself as you are.
What Is Autism, Really?
Autism isn’t just about social struggles or rigid routines. It’s a neurodevelopmental difference characterized by unique ways of thinking, processing, and interacting with the world. Neurodevelopmental differences are lifelong brain-body interactions which are unique compared to people who do not have Autism, sometimes referred to as “neurotypical” or “allistic.”
Key Features of Autism:
Sensory Sensitivities & Preferences: Variable (often heightened or decreased) awareness or discomfort with sounds, textures, lights, or smells.
Social Differences: Atypical communication styles when communicating with neurotypicals, difficulty with unspoken social rules, prefers communicating about areas of interest (small talk can feel like a chore and lots of conversations can feel like small talk).
Cognitive Patterns: Unique problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and deep focus on specific topics of interest (hyperfocus/hyperfixation).
By understanding these nuances, we can create a clearer, personalized picture of what autism looks like for you.
Common Autism Traits and Signs
Social Communication Differences:
Difficulty interpreting social cues or understanding unspoken rules.
Preference for deep, meaningful conversations over small talk.
Challenges with maintaining back-and-forth conversations, particular with neurotypical folks.
Sensory Experiences:
Overwhelmed by loud noises, bright lights, or crowded environments (or soft noises, lack of light, empty environments!).
Seeking comfort through repetitive movements (stimming) like tapping or rocking.
Needing extra time to process sensory or emotional input (emotional dysregulation).
Cognitive and Emotional Patterns:
Intense focus on specific interests (sometimes called “special interests” or “hyperfixations”).
Difficulty switching tasks or adapting to unexpected changes.
Masking Autism: Suppressing natural behaviors to fit societal expectations, often leading to burnout.
If these resonate, exploring an autism diagnosis could bring clarity and help tailor strategies to your unique needs.
Why Choose My Approach?
Traditional autism testing often involves lengthy, expensive evaluations that may:
Miss subtle autism traits in individuals who have learned to mask symptoms.
Overlook autism in adults or those from underrepresented groups.
Confuse autism traits with ADHD or other conditions.
My Approach
Efficient Process: Autism diagnosis in 2–3 sessions.
Personalized Assessment: Includes your lived experiences, autism screeners, and context from others (if needed).
Research-Based Expertise: Informed by the latest findings and years of experience diagnosing and supporting neurodivergent individuals.
This is a compassionate, streamlined approach—no unnecessary barriers or outdated methods.
Autism Testing & Therapy Details
Matt Jackson, LPA
Your Autism Specialist
Cost: $150 per session (insurance not accepted).
Diagnosis Timeline: Typically completed in 2–3 sessions.
Therapy Duration: Clients often continue for at least 12 sessions over 3+ months, with flexible timelines based on your needs.
Additional Services: Post-diagnosis support (e.g., finding prescribers, workplace accommodations). Priority is given to ongoing therapy clients.
Ready to Get Started?
Don’t let autism remain a mystery. Together, we’ll uncover the answers you need to move forward with confidence and clarity.
Contact me today to schedule your autism testing or learn more about how I can help!
What Happens After Diagnosis?
An autism diagnosis can be the first step toward deeper self-understanding. I also provide support to help you move forward, including:
Educational Resources: Learn more about autism and how it relates to your experiences.
Therapy: Build skills to navigate challenges and embrace your strengths.
Advocacy Tools: Guidance for accommodations for autism at work or school (if needed).
Some of my favorite Free Online Autism Screeners
-
The Ritvo Autism Asperger’s Diagnostic Scale-Revised (RAADS-R) evaluates traits and behaviors commonly associated with autism. Designed to assist in identifying autistic traits in adults, it can provide valuable insights. However, as it was originally created in 2008 and revised in 2011, some questions reflect outdated assumptions about autism and may be worded unclearly. Results should always be interpreted alongside other assessments and evidence.results as one piece of evidence, not a standalone diagnosis.
-
The Autism Spectrum Quotient (AQ) measures traits and behaviors often associated with autism in adults. Created in 2001, it reflects the understanding of autism at that time and may not fully capture high-masking or more expressive presentations. While not a diagnostic tool, it provides insight into autistic traits and patterns. Results should always be interpreted alongside other evidence and assessments for accuracy.
-
This screener assesses the extent to which individuals may camouflage or mask traits commonly associated with autism. While it is intended for autistic individuals, it may also highlight overlapping features of ADHD. Results can provide valuable insight but should be considered alongside other evidence and assessments.
-
The Toronto Alexithymia Scale (TAS-20) assesses difficulties in identifying and describing emotions, a feature common among people with autism. Created in 1994, it reflects the understanding of alexithymia at that time and may not fully align with current research. While not a direct screener for autism, it can provide valuable insights into emotional processing. Results should always be interpreted alongside other assessments and evidence.